Steelmaking Process Optimization Engineer (Melt Shop)

Are you the engineer who turns data into safer, faster, cleaner melt shop operations?

Where you’ll work: Greater Richmond Region, south-central Virginia

Relocation: U.S. relocation support available

Pay: $105,000–$121,000 base + Annual Bonus

Why Gerdau?

• Up to 96% of our North American steel is made from recycled scrap—leading the way on sustainability and low embodied carbon.
• Financially strong, dividend-paying NYSE-listed company.
• Global scale, local impact, and a team-first culture focused on safety and innovation.

What you’ll tackle

• Lead targeted continuous improvement initiatives to elevate melt shop safety, quality, reliability, and cost performance.
• Analyze production/process data to spot trends, quantify opportunities, and eliminate recurring issues.
• Cut process variation using Lean, Six Sigma, and structured root cause analysis.
• Build and sustain process standards, systems, and best practices.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute CAPEX projects from scoping through start-up.
• Partner with production, maintenance, and leadership to optimize equipment and processes across the plant.
• Deliver training on continuous improvement tools and problem-solving techniques.
• Coach teams in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, QIS, and Failure Analysis.
• Contribute to annual business planning, goal deployment, and strategic improvement roadmaps.
• Serve as a technical resource for process optimization and performance improvement.
• Advance a culture of safety and environmental compliance.

Do you have what it takes?

• Degree: Bachelor’s in Engineering, Business Administration, Materials Science, or related field with 3–5 years of relevant experience; OR High School Diploma/GED with 6–8 years’ relevant experience.
• Industry: Heavy industrial or process manufacturing experience with knowledge of standardization and production quality methods.
• Plus: Steelmaking and melt shop background preferred; experience in scrap processing, melting, casting, rolling, maintenance, or finishing.
• Proven: Track record leading CI and process optimization projects; CAPEX planning/support experience.
• Toolbox: Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, root cause analysis, and quality improvement methodologies.
• Influence: Strong communication, presentation, coaching, and leadership skills with cross-functional partners.

Tools and methods you’ll use

• Data Analysis and Manipulation
• Continuous Improvement
• Troubleshooting Skills
• Fishbone Diagram (Ishikawa Diagram)
• Process Engineering
• Production Optimization
• Lean Manufacturing Principles
• Six Sigma Experience
• Investment Casting (Foundry Operations)
• Process Development
• CAPEX
• Operational reliability
• Root cause

Systems you’ll touch

• SAP

Benefits you can count on (Day 1 eligibility for medical/dental/vision)

• Comprehensive Medical, Prescription, Dental, and Vision plans
• Health & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• 100% 401(k) match up to 6%
• Life/AD&D Insurance, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• Paid Parental Leave
• Health Advocate Services and an Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Structured Career Path and Training
• An empowering, open culture with room to grow and create

Make your mark

Apply if you’re ready to lead change, solve complex challenges, and help shape the future of steel manufacturing.