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Research Development Process Engineer Jobs in Nashville, TN

RKW - North America

Process Engineer

Franklin, KY · On-site

Collaborate closely with Research & Development, Production, Quality, and other cross-functional ... Minimum 3 to 5 years of process engineering experience in film extrusion, printing, embossing, or ...

Valeo

Assembly Process Engineer

Smyrna, TN · On-site

You have 5+ years of experience as a Process Engineer or similar in a high-speed manufacturing ... Research & Development - a multi-cultural environment that values diversity and international ...

Aampower

Process Engineer

Gallatin, TN

The Process Engineer is responsible for coordinating and overseeing all activities related to ... and R&D developments into stable and controlled mass production. * Investigate bonding process ...

Valeo

Assembly Process Engineer

Smyrna, TN

You have 5+ years of experience as a Process Engineer or similar in a high-speed manufacturing ... Research & Development - a multi-cultural environment that values diversity and international ...

ITW Automotive

Process Engineer

Gallatin, TN · On-site

The Process Engineer will lead and support cross-functional teams in continuous improvement ... In addition to ITW's leading industry research and development capabilities, StampTech Fasteners TM ...

Foth

Process Engineer

Nashville, TN · Remote

Lead the development of process mechanical designs and deliverables from concept through construction * Perform engineering calculations, system evaluations, equipment sizing, and technical analyses ...

Foth

Process Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site +1

Lead the development of process mechanical designs and deliverables from concept through construction * Perform engineering calculations, system evaluations, equipment sizing, and technical analyses ...

Chromalox

Process Engineer (Extrusion)

La Vergne, TN · On-site

Work closely with production personnel, R&D, Engineering, Quality, and Manufacturing teams to ensure extrusion processes meet customer specifications, tolerances, and internal requirements. * Tooling ...

Novelis

Process Engineer

Guthrie, KY

The Process Engineer is responsible for providing advanced business process management expertise in ... Participate in the development of new products- process documentation and refinement of existing ...

Teksky

Process Engineer

La Vergne, TN · On-site

Responsible for process control and support for service and repair area * Responsible for ... Work with product development engineers during and after product introduction to improve product ...

Faurecia

Process Engineer

Spring Hill, TN · On-site

Your mission, roles and responsibilities POSITION SUMMARY The main role of the Process Engineer is ... development of sustainable mobility leading technologies We are the seventh-largest global ...

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All JobsResearch Development Process Engineer JobsResearch Development Process Engineer Jobs in Nashville, TN

Research Development Process Engineer information

See Nashville, TN salary details

$43.9K

$98.1K

$147.3K

How much do research development process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development process engineer in Nashville, TN is $98,146.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,800.00 and $114,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a research development process engineer do?

A Research Development Process Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing processes in research and product development settings. They work to improve efficiency, quality, and scalability of new products or technologies by bridging the gap between research and manufacturing. Their role often involves collaborating with scientists, engineers, and production teams to ensure that innovative concepts can be effectively and safely produced at a larger scale. They also analyze data, troubleshoot problems, and implement improvements to meet regulatory and business requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research development process engineer?

A Research Development Process Engineer requires a solid background in chemical or process engineering, problem-solving abilities, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or MATLAB), statistical analysis tools, and industry-specific certifications like Six Sigma are often expected. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure successful innovation, efficient process optimization, and seamless collaboration in research-driven engineering environments.

What are the main challenges research development process engineers face when transitioning projects from R&D to full-scale production?

One of the primary challenges Research Development Process Engineers encounter is ensuring that innovative processes developed in the laboratory can be effectively scaled up for manufacturing without compromising quality or efficiency. This often involves troubleshooting unforeseen issues, optimizing process parameters, and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams such as manufacturing, quality assurance, and supply chain. Navigating regulatory requirements and managing tight project deadlines are also common hurdles. Successful engineers leverage strong problem-solving skills and clear communication to bridge the gap between research concepts and practical, large-scale implementation.

What is the difference between Research Development Process Engineer vs Research Scientist?

AspectResearch Development Process EngineerResearch Scientist
Primary FocusDeveloping and optimizing manufacturing processes and workflowsConducting scientific research to generate new knowledge or products
Work EnvironmentIndustrial labs, manufacturing facilitiesAcademic or industrial research labs
Required CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in Engineering, Chemistry, or related fields; certifications in process improvementMaster’s or PhD in Science or Engineering
Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical, pharmaceutical industriesAcademic, R&D departments, biotech, pharmaceuticals

Research Development Process Engineers focus on translating research into scalable manufacturing processes, while Research Scientists primarily conduct experiments to advance scientific knowledge. Both roles require strong technical skills but differ in application and environment.

What are popular job titles related to Research Development Process Engineer jobs in Nashville, TN?

For Research Development Process Engineer jobs in Nashville, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Development Process Engineer jobs in Nashville, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Development Process Engineer jobs in Nashville, TN are:

What cities near Nashville, TN are hiring for Research Development Process Engineer jobs?

Cities near Nashville, TN with the most Research Development Process Engineer job openings:

Research Development Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Development Process Engineer job openings in Nashville, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $98,146 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Process Engineer

Franklin, KY • On-site

RKW - North America
Plastics Product Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about RKW - North Americaexternal

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

JOB PROFILE

Internal Job Title (SF)

Process Engineer

Business Job Title (optional) 


Segment/ Site 

Franklin, KY

Job Function 

Engineering

Job Discipline 


Position Title solid line Manager; dotted line Manager (if applicable)

Engineering Manager

N° of Direct Reports (approx.) 

0

Job Purpose (Describes purpose and [strategic] contribution of the role to business, function or similar.)


The Process Engineer drives continuous improvement in asset productivity and product quality through data analysis, process and material expertise and research, and structured experimentation. The role leads DOEs to validate and document improvement initiatives, with success measured by reduced process variation, improved operating stability, higher first-pass yield, and lower scrap. The Process Engineer also trains and supports operators, Quality Technicians, and Production Supervisors in process-related improvements.


Key Duties & Responsibilities 

(max. of 8 duties) 

  • Drive process performance and continuous improvement initiatives to achieve established production and quality targets, utilizing appropriate quality management tools and defined performance metrics.
  • Monitor, analyze, and improve production efficiency, including throughput, scrap reduction, and equipment uptime, in line with budgeted standards and operational objectives.
  • Develop, implement, maintain, and optimize Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Standard Operating Conditions (SOCs) for new and existing processes, and provide training to operators and relevant stakeholders.
  • Investigate, troubleshoot, and resolve process and plant-related issues to ensure consistent operational performance, product quality, and timely delivery to customers.
  • Collaborate closely with Research & Development, Production, Quality, and other cross-functional teams to support the product development lifecycle from concept through commercialization, including plant trials, field trials, validation, and product launch activities.
  • Conduct physical, analytical, and performance testing of raw materials, product samples, and competitive materials; document, interpret, and summarize results to support process optimization and product development.
  • Lead or contribute to cross-functional improvement projects and technical task teams focused on process enhancements, corrective actions, and rapid resolution of operational challenges.
  • Maintain accurate and compliant process documentation and records, including ISO-related documentation, trial reports, change management records, and process validation files.


Job Qualifications

(Minimum requirements representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.)


Education & Working Experience (e.g. degrees, years of experience, etc.)

 


  • Bachelor’s degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Polymer, Materials, Industrial, Process Engineering, or equivalent. 
  • Minimum 3 to 5 years of process engineering experience in film extrusion, printing, embossing, or related web conveyance and converting operations. 
  • Preferred experience in hygiene film manufacturing and high-speed roll-to-roll printing and embossing. 
  • Demonstrated success in process optimization, waste reduction, quality improvement, and industrial troubleshooting. 


Essential Skills & Competencies

(Technical experience, personal skills, language skills, etc.) 

See also: RKW competency model 

 


  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. 
  • Results-oriented mindset with the ability to respond to urgent operational needs and meet deadlines. 
  • High attention to detail in process control, troubleshooting, and documentation. 
  • Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a cross-functional team. 
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify root causes and implement sustainable solutions. 
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills. 
  • Ability to interact effectively with operators, maintenance, quality, production, and management teams. 
  • Fluent in English; additional language skills are an advantage. 
  • Capable of communicating technical issues clearly and driving alignment across functions. 
  • Proficient in MS Office, especially Excel, Word, Outlook, and Project. 
  • Comfortable working with production systems, data collection tools, and reporting platforms. 
  • Able to convert production data into actionable process improvements. 
  • Knowledge of OSHA, EPA, and other relevant regulatory requirements. 
  • Strong commitment to performing all duties in a safe, effective, and compliant manner. 


Other Requirements (e.g. international mobility, travel extent, special licenses, trainings etc.)


Advantageous certifications

  • Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
  • Lean Manufacturing certification
  • SPC / statistical data analysis training
  • FMEA / DMAIC problem-solving training
  • HSE-related manufacturing training


Must be able to travel internationally. 



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