Careers at PLASTICS

The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) is a purpose-driven organization supporting the entire plastics supply chain. We proudly represent the nearly one million workers in the plastics supply chain in the United States. PLASTICS is a dynamic organization with an ambitious team striving for growth and success. Together we shape the direction of the plastics industry and, as a job responsibility, have some fun while doing so. We have the opportunity to learn, develop, and impact both the industry and our association. We are passionate about recycling and sustainability. We encourage volunteerism. As a team, we seek opportunities to improve the communities we work and visit, including organizing riverbank clean-ups and recycling.

We offer generous benefits including health, dental, vision and life insurance, competitive salaries and a 401(k) plan with employer contributions. We work hard, we play hard and we value a work-life balance. 

PLASTICS is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual preference, disability or any factor prohibited by applicable law.

Benefits

Protecting, promoting, and growing the plastics industry has its perks.

Available Positions

Join our team in protecting, promoting, and growing the plastics industry.
Director of Strategic Development
Reports To: Senior Director, Membership
Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid)
Job Type: Full Time
Salary Range: $94,000-$118,000
FLSA Exemption Status: Exempt

The Director of Strategic Development will drive business development strategies to support and accelerate the organization’s membership growth and sponsorship goals. As a key member of the membership team, this role is responsible for developing and executing strategies that drive member recruitment, engagement, and retention as well as business development and sponsorship in alignment with PLASTICS’ strategic priorities. In partnership with the Senior Director of Membership, the strategist will lead initiatives to expand the member base, oversee the full sales lifecycle, and ensure accurate tracking, reporting, and CRM/data management to support informed decision-making and sustained growth.

Responsibilities:
    • Collaborate with the Senior Director of Membership and internal stakeholders to design and execute sustainable strategies for membership growth.
    • Lead engagement with current sponsors and expand outreach to prospective sponsors for PLASTICS’ calendar of events throughout the year to increase sponsor-generated revenue.
    • Manage the entire prospect journey from lead qualification to closing and onboarding.
      • Identify, capture, and qualify leads to cultivate new membership opportunities with prospects.
      • Coordinate with Manager of Membership Administration to ensure accurate and high-quality prospect data capture.
      • Conduct network analysis of PLASTICS board leadership and industry-leading members to identify relationship connections to top prospects.
      • As appropriate, deliver compelling initial pitches with prospective members and develop a tailored follow-up plan that demonstrates the value proposition of membership.
    • Represent PLASTICS at industry events and conferences to engage potential prospective exhibitors and sponsors, and promote PLASTICS’ events, conferences, and NPE opportunities.
    • Maintain a solid understanding of policy issues, program differentiators, and industry segments, including how they are impacted by current events.
    • Lead the closing process for new members, identifying when to strategically engage the Senior Vice President of Industry Engagement or the executive leadership team.
    • In collaboration with Senior Director of Membership and Senior Vice President of Industry Engagement, identify and foster opportunities for prospects and members to engage with other revenue-generating programs at PLASTICS.
    • Work with the Senior Director of Membership to set annual membership goals and provide monthly insights into membership revenue and progress towards annual goals.
    • Identify opportunities and collaborate with colleagues to enhance member benefits and services offered by the Association.
    • Work closely with the Senior Manager of Membership to ensure a smooth handoff and onboarding experience.
    • Leverage iMIS and HubSpot to manage sales pipeline and day-to-day activities.
    • Continuously assess and proactively identify opportunities, industry trends, and prospective partnerships to drive long-term membership and sponsorship growth.
    Education & Experience:
    • Bachelor’s degree in business, sales, or marketing or in a related field or equivalent work experience required.
    • A minimum of five years’ experience in a related position such as sales or membership management; trade association or plastics industry preferred.
    • Experience with association management software (AMS) or customer relationship management software (CRM) (e.g., iMIS, HubSpot).
    • A successful track record in developing and executing sales plans.
    • Experience with relationship-building with a wide range of stakeholders.
    Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
    • Understanding of membership or business development principles including sales best practices, processes and programs.
    • Excellent written and verbal communications skills including presentation skills with diverse stakeholder audiences.
    • Self-motivated with attention to detail and excellent analytical, strategic, problem-solving, organizational, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills.
    • Ability to prioritize and work on a variety of projects simultaneously, adjust to changing priorities, meet deadlines, and deliver results.
    • Ability to work autonomously and collectively to build consensus.
    • Ability to provide excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders.
    • An earnest work ethic and dedication to collective success of the organization in service of our membership.
    • A commitment to promoting and working in an inclusive and diverse environment with a variety of colleagues from multiple backgrounds.
    • Demonstrate a commitment to embody and uphold PLASTICS’ core values of ethics, unity, impact, optimism, and innovation in all interactions and responsibilities.
    • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, Excel required.
    • Ability to travel (<25%).
    Interested? Please apply using the PLASTICS Job Form
    About PLASTICS

    The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) is a purpose-driven organization here to support the entire plastics supply chain. We are proud to represent the nearly one million people who are employed by companies in the plastics supply chain in the United States. PLASTICS is a dynamic organization with an ambitious team, striving for growth and success. Together we shape the direction of the entire plastics industry and as a job requirement, have some fun while doing so. Employees have the opportunity to learn, develop, and impact both the industry and our association. We also encourage volunteerism. As a team we seek opportunities to improve the communities in which we work and visit, including organizing riverbank clean-ups.

    We offer generous benefits including health, dental, vision, life insurance, well-being, a 401(k) plan with employer contributions, competitive salaries, and work from home flexibility. We work hard, we play hard, and we value a work-life balance! In fact, we offer unlimited paid time off, and employees take personal time off at their own discretion.

    PLASTICS is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, or any factor prohibited by applicable law.

    Manger, Public Affairs & Digital Production
    Reports To: Senior Manager, Communications & Digital Production Communications
    Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid)
    Job Type: Full Time
    Salary Range: $67,000-$84,000
    FLSA Exemption Status: Exempt

    The Manager, Public Affairs & Digital Production supports PLASTICS’ advocacy and public outreach by producing and managing digital content, video projects, and integrated campaigns. The manager collaborates across departments to ensure consistent messaging and helps contribute to key initiatives like Recycling is Real and Positives of Plastics. The manager also supports studio operations, digital platform management, and data-driven improvements to enhance the Association’s visibility and impact. 

    Responsibilities:
    Digital Content Creation & Campaign Management
    • Create high-quality content for PLASTICS’ websites and social media channels, manage digital campaigns, and ensure accuracy across public-facing digital platforms to support real-time public affairs messaging that promotes the positive impact of the plastics industry and supports our advocacy priorities.
    • Coordinate with the Marketing department to develop content for PLASTICS events, stakeholder engagement, and digital programming that fosters positive sentiment toward the industry, members, and their workforce and products.
    • Work with the Media and Press team to update and manage the PLASTICS website newsroom and blog, ensuring timely publication of press releases aligned with strategic messaging and priorities.

    Multimedia Production & Studio Operations 

    • Support the day-to-day operations of the Plastics Industry Association Media Recording Facility (MRF), ensuring top-quality video and audio production across livestreams, interviews, campaign videos, podcasts, and digital ads.
    • Create videography pre- to post-production, including concept development, scripting, lighting, filming, directing, editing, and final delivery.

    Platform & Analytics Management

    • Support all digital platforms used for outreach and production, including Adobe, Vimeo, YouTube, Brandwatch (LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram), Hubspot, Ecamm Live, Zoom, and others.
    • Utilize digital analytics software to generate concise internal performance reports that inform improvements.

    Initiative & Website Support

    • Support the Public Affairs departmental promotion of the Recycling is Real initiative, including member collaboration, presentation and video production, and enhancement of related digital platforms.
    • Manage Public Affairs-facing websites, including Positives of Plastics, ensuring consistent messaging and promoting industry innovation, sustainability, and economic impact to audiences including policymakers, elected officials and the public.
    • Coordinate and manage Association webinars, educational forums, and online events to ensure consistent messaging and content alignment across departments.
    Education & Experience: 
    • Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent work experience.
    • A minimum of two years’ experience in a related position or in communications, digital communications, or media production with a trade association, public relations agency, or similar industry.
    • Experience with video or multimedia content production including integrated software and post-production capabilities.
    • Experience working with legislative branches, administration, regulatory agencies a plus.
    • Experience with digital platforms, including WordPress, Google Analytics, and social media management tools.
    • Applicable digital, communications, or media production certifications.
    Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:  
    • Knowledge of basic digital and marketing promotional principles as well as video/audio/visual production.
    • A generous sense of humor and openness to inclusive public relations, bipartisan understanding of broad messaging campaigns, and a willingness to promote diverse ideas.
    • Written and verbal communications skills with diverse stakeholder audiences.
    • Polished presentation and customer service ability, specifically when interacting with association members, executives, and external stakeholders.
    • Self-motivated with attention to detail, problem-solving, organizational, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills.
    • Ability to prioritize and work on a variety of projects, adjust to changing priorities, meet deadlines, and deliver results.
    • Ability to work autonomously and collectively to build consensus.
    • An earnest work ethic and dedication to the collective success of the organization in service of our membership.
    • A commitment to promoting and working in an inclusive and diverse environment with a variety of colleagues from multiple backgrounds.
    • Demonstrate a commitment to embody and uphold PLASTICS’ core values of ethics, unity, impact, optimism, and innovation in all interactions and responsibilities.
    • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
    Interested? Please apply using the PLASTICS Job Form.
    About PLASTICS

    The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) is a purpose-driven organization here to support the entire plastics supply chain. We are proud to represent the nearly one million people who are employed by companies in the plastics supply chain in the United States. PLASTICS is a dynamic organization with an ambitious team, striving for growth and success. Together we shape the direction of the entire plastics industry and as a job requirement, have some fun while doing so. Employees have the opportunity to learn, develop, and impact both the industry and our association. We also encourage volunteerism. As a team we seek opportunities to improve the communities in which we work and visit, including organizing riverbank clean-ups.

    We offer generous benefits including health, dental, vision, life insurance, well-being, a 401(k) plan with employer contributions, competitive salaries, and work from home flexibility. We work hard, we play hard, and we value a work-life balance! In fact, we offer unlimited paid time off, and employees take personal time off at their own discretion.

    PLASTICS is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, or any factor prohibited by applicable law.

    Program Manager, Industry Engagement and Sustainability & Policy
    Reports To: Senior Vice President, Industry Engagement & Senior Vice President, Sustainability & Policy
    Location: Remote | Washington, DC | Hybrid
    Job Type: Full Time
    Salary Range: $58,000-$73,000
    FLSA Exemption Status: Exempt

    The Program Manager plays a pivotal role in driving strategic alignment and operational excellence across the Industry Engagement and Sustainability & Policy departments. Reporting to two Senior Vice Presidents, this position serves as a key connector, facilitating cross-functional collaboration, tracking progress on strategic initiatives and objectives and key results (OKRs), and ensuring effective execution of high-impact programs. The Program Manager also leads and supports special projects that advance organizational priorities, contributing to innovation, member value, and continuous improvement across the association.

    Responsibilities:
    • Lead cross-departmental coordination by facilitating collaboration between Industry Engagement, Sustainability, and Policy teams to ensure alignment on strategic goals and initiatives.
    • Support strategic planning and execution by tracking progress on departmental OKRs, identifying risks, and proactively recommending solutions to maintain momentum and accountability.
    • Serve as a key liaison between senior leadership and internal/external stakeholders, ensuring timely, professional, and effective communication that reflects the association’s priorities and values.
    • Drive operational excellence by identifying opportunities for process improvement, streamlining workflows, and implementing best practices that enhance team efficiency and impact.
    • Manage and support special projects from initiation through completion, including planning, stakeholder coordination, milestone tracking, and reporting on outcomes.
    • Facilitate internal meetings by preparing agendas, capturing key decisions and action items, and ensuring follow-through to advance organizational priorities
    • Oversee program logistics and execution, including scheduling, calendar management, meeting preparation, and follow-up to ensure seamless coordination and delivery of strategic initiatives.
    • Champion member engagement by supporting communications, responding to inquiries, and ensuring a high-quality experience for association members and partners.
    • Maintain organized documentation and knowledge management systems to support continuity, collaboration, and institutional memory across departments.
    Education & Experience:
    • Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent work experience.
    • A minimum of 2 years of experience in a related position such as administrative support, project coordination, stakeholder communications, or operations; association or plastics industry preferred.
    • Experience supporting senior leaders, managing calendars and meetings, coordinating cross-functional initiatives, maintaining organized documentation, and contributing to process improvements is preferred.
    • Experience with project management or collaboration tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, SharePoint).
    • Experience with or willingness to learn about the plastics industry, industry engagement, sustainability or policy.
    Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
    • Effective written and verbal communication skills with diverse stakeholder audiences.
    • Self-motivated with attention to detail, problem-solving, organizational, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills.
    • Ability to prioritize and work on a variety of projects, adjust to changing priorities, meet deadlines, and deliver results.
    • Ability to work autonomously and collectively to build consensus.
    • Ability to provide customer service to internal and external stakeholders.
    • Ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion when handling sensitive information. An earnest work ethic and dedication to collective success of the organization in service of our membership.
    • A commitment to promoting and working in an inclusive and diverse environment with a variety of colleagues from multiple backgrounds. Demonstrate a commitment to embody and uphold PLASTICS’ core values of ethics, unity, impact, optimism, and innovation in all interactions and responsibilities.
    • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
    • Ability to travel (<10%).
    Interested? Please apply using the PLASTICS Job Form
    About PLASTICS

    The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) is a purpose-driven organization here to support the entire plastics supply chain. We are proud to represent the nearly one million people who are employed by companies in the plastics supply chain in the United States. PLASTICS is a dynamic organization with an ambitious team, striving for growth and success. Together we shape the direction of the entire plastics industry and as a job requirement, have some fun while doing so. Employees have the opportunity to learn, develop, and impact both the industry and our association. We also encourage volunteerism. As a team we seek opportunities to improve the communities in which we work and visit, including organizing riverbank clean-ups.

    We offer generous benefits including health, dental, vision, life insurance, well-being, a 401(k) plan with employer contributions, competitive salaries, and work from home flexibility. We work hard, we play hard, and we value a work-life balance! In fact, we offer unlimited paid time off, and employees take personal time off at their own discretion.

    PLASTICS is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, or any factor prohibited by applicable law.

    Project Manager, Tradeshow Services & Operations (NPE)
    Reports To: Director, Tradeshow Operations (NPE)
    Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid)
    Job Type: Full Time
    Salary Range: $58,000-$73,000
    FLSA Exemption Status: Exempt

    The Project Manager, Tradeshow Services & Operations is responsible for managing cross-functional projects related to exhibitor services, international pavilion coordination, and show committee support.  

    This role involves scheduling meetings, drafting minutes, tracking action items, and maintaining accurate exhibitor records. The Project Manager will lead timelines, facilitate stakeholder communications, and ensure deliverables are met with precision and professionalism. While administrative duties are part of the role, the emphasis is on proactive project oversight, process improvement, and effective stakeholder engagement.  

    Responsibilities:

    Project Management & Stakeholder Coordination

    • Lead and manage all administrative functions related to show committees, including scheduling, minute-taking, and tracking resolution of action items.
    • Coordinate international pavilion logistics, including booth assignments, exhibitor record updates, and outreach to pavilion organizers to optimize space utilization.
    • Support exhibitor onboarding and engagement, with a focus on first-time exhibitors, in collaboration with the Director, Tradeshow Operations.

    Operational Execution & Data Management 

    • Monitor and respond to exhibitor inquiries via multiple email inboxes and phone support channels.
    • Maintain and update exhibitor frequently asked questions (FAQs) and forms on the Exhibitor Resource Center, ensuring accuracy and accessibility throughout the show cycle.
    • Track and manage submission of required exhibitor forms, including recycling and transportation documentation, and maintain tracking systems for internal and partner use.
    • Prepare and distribute exhibitor lists to contractors, venues, and subcontractors.

    Systems & Process Oversight 

    • Update and maintain floor plans in Map Your Show, including booth adjustments and new assignments.
    • Ensure exhibitor data accuracy across systems, including company and contact updates, booth requirements, and approvals.
    • Support the Director, Trade Show Operations in maintaining the overall show schedule, including education and event programming in Map Your Show.
    • Process and confirm affiliate and partnership exhibitor approvals, assign booth space, and distribute credentials.

    Quality Assurance & Onsite Support 

    • Proofread exhibitor communications and provide recommendations for clarity and effectiveness.
    • Travel to Orlando for the Space Selection & Planning event and NPE: The Plastics Show to provide onsite support and coordination.
    • Provide general operational support as needed, including visa letters and other exhibitor services.
    Education & Experience:
    • Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent work experience.
    • A minimum of two years of experience in a related position in a trade show or convention role; trade association experience preferred.
    • Experience with event management and floor planning management platforms (e.g. iMIS, Map Your Show, etc.) preferred
    • Experience with project & program management.
    • Certified in Event Management (CEM) is a plus.
    Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
    • Knowledge of tradeshow operations and practices.
    • Written and verbal communications skills with diverse stakeholder audiences.
      •  
    • Self-motivated with attention to detail problem-solving, organizational, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills.
    • Ability to work well autonomously and collectively to build consensus amongst internal and external stakeholders.
    • Ability to provide excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders.
    • Ability to prioritize and work on various projects simultaneously, adjust to changing priorities, meet deadlines, and deliver results.
    • An earnest work ethic and dedication to collective success of the organization in service of our membership.
    • A commitment to promoting and working in an inclusive and diverse environment with a variety of colleagues from multiple backgrounds.
    • Demonstrate a commitment to embody and uphold PLASTICS’ core values of ethics, unity, impact, optimism, and innovation in all interactions and responsibilities.
    • Working knowledge in Microsoft Office applications.
    • Ability to travel (<10%).
    Interested? Please apply using the PLASTICS Job Form
    About PLASTICS

    The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) is a purpose-driven organization here to support the entire plastics supply chain. We are proud to represent the nearly one million people who are employed by companies in the plastics supply chain in the United States. PLASTICS is a dynamic organization with an ambitious team, striving for growth and success. Together we shape the direction of the entire plastics industry and as a job requirement, have some fun while doing so. Employees have the opportunity to learn, develop, and impact both the industry and our association. We also encourage volunteerism. As a team we seek opportunities to improve the communities in which we work and visit, including organizing riverbank clean-ups.

    We offer generous benefits including health, dental, vision, life insurance, well-being, a 401(k) plan with employer contributions, competitive salaries, and work from home flexibility. We work hard, we play hard, and we value a work-life balance! In fact, we offer unlimited paid time off, and employees take personal time off at their own discretion.

    PLASTICS is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, or any factor prohibited by applicable law.