Research Development Process Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Danville, VA (or other BGF plant location)
Full-Time | Manufacturing & Engineering | Reports to Department Manager www.bgf.com

About BGF Industries

BGF Industries is a leading U.S. manufacturer of innovative technical fiber materials used worldwide in aerospace, marine, automotive, filtration, insulation, electrical, and protective markets. Since 1941, BGF has built a reputation for engineering excellence, product integrity, and continuous innovation.

Headquartered in Danville, Virginia, with multiple manufacturing facilities across Virginia and South Carolina, BGF delivers advanced fiber-based solutions that meet demanding performance standards for strength, heat resistance, and durability.

Our mission is simple but powerful:

“Deliver excellence in every product, every process, every time.”

Position Overview

The Process Engineer plays a key role in driving manufacturing performance, product quality, and safety at BGF. This position focuses on optimizing process parameters, supporting production teams, ensuring environmental and safety compliance, and collaborating with R&D and Quality to deliver consistent, high-quality products to customers.

You’ll work in a dynamic, team-oriented environment where innovation, problem-solving, and continuous improvement are valued every day.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain Process Control: Develop, document, and monitor process parameters to achieve safety, quality, and production targets.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Technical Service Engineers (TSEs), Quality Control, and R&D to troubleshoot and resolve manufacturing and product issues.
• Data & Reporting: Collect and analyze process data, generate reports, graphs, and presentations to identify trends, correct quality issues, and communicate results.
• Environmental & Safety Compliance: Assist with audits, emissions tracking, SDS/CAS data entry (VOC, HAP), and adherence to federal and state environmental requirements.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify and implement process improvements, cost-savings initiatives, and yield optimization projects.
• Documentation: Develop, write, and maintain work instructions and process documentation for training and compliance.
• Plant Support: Participate in machine trials, production evaluations, and new product scale-up activities.
• General Duties: Maintain a safe and orderly work environment; perform other tasks as directed by the Department or Plant Manager.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry
• Minimum 5 years of process engineering or manufacturing experience
• Strong computer proficiency, including data analysis tools and Microsoft Office
• Working knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC) techniques
• Excellent communication skills across all levels of the organization
• Ability to work any shift and travel between departments or plants as needed
• 20/40 correctable vision and ability to wear appropriate PPE

Preferred

• Experience in technical textiles, coatings, or composite manufacturing
• Background in Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies
• Familiarity with environmental compliance systems or emission monitoring

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Standing, walking, and climbing as needed (up to 12 hours per day)
• Lifting, pushing, and pulling objects (typically under 50 lbs; assistance provided for heavier loads)
• Visual acuity to detect yarn quality and color variations
• Exposure to fiberglass, dust, fumes, or chemicals — PPE required

Success in This Role Means

• Achieving manufacturing targets for safety, quality, and efficiency
• Reducing process variation and defects
• Effectively collaborating with R&D, Quality, and Production teams
• Ensuring full compliance with environmental and safety standards
• Demonstrating initiative and continuous improvement leadership

Why Join BGF Industries?

• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
• Opportunities for growth and leadership within a global organization
• A stable, values-driven company culture emphasizing integrity, teamwork, innovation, and excellence
• The ability to make a tangible impact in a growing, technology-focused manufacturing environment

This position requires access to information or technology that is subject to U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Pursuant to these regulations, only U.S. Persons (U.S. Citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents/Green Card holders) are eligible for this role. Proof of U.S. Person status will be required prior to employment.