Research engineers turn scientific ideas into practical systems, tools, and products. They combine engineering expertise with research methods to design experiments, build prototypes, analyze results, and help teams move discoveries toward real-world applications. Explore vetted Research Engineer opportunities paying $100,000 or more on Ladders.
Responsibilities vary by industry and employer, but often include developing research software or hardware, creating and testing prototypes, designing experiments, processing data, documenting findings, and collaborating with scientists, product teams, and other engineers. In fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, materials science, and biotechnology, research engineers may also build infrastructure that enables teams to train models, run simulations, or evaluate new technologies.
Employers typically seek strong engineering fundamentals, analytical thinking, and experience applying technical methods to open-ended problems. Relevant skills may include programming, statistical analysis, machine learning, simulation, experimental design, prototyping, and technical communication. Requirements depend on the specialty; some roles favor a bachelor’s or master’s degree and industry experience, while others may prefer a doctorate or a background in academic or laboratory research.
Research engineers work in technology companies, research and development organizations, universities, laboratories, healthcare and biotech firms, and advanced manufacturing. Roles may focus on software, AI, robotics, electrical or mechanical systems, or other specialized areas. Team structures and day-to-day work can differ, so review each job description for its research focus, required expertise, and collaboration model.
Search Ladders for vetted Research Engineer openings with salaries of $100,000 or more. Compare responsibilities, qualifications, and compensation details to find opportunities that fit your technical background and career goals.
$95K - $115K *
Join a team that's redefining power systems engineering by leading advanced studies in T&D, enhancing software tools, and fostering collaboration across projects to drive innovation and efficiency in...
Today
$80K - $95K *
Unlock potential by driving innovative power systems engineering studies, focusing on electromagnetic transients, grid stability, and modern energy resources. Collaborate across divisions to enhance T...
Today
Structural Engineer (Remote or Hybrid)
$93K - $108K *
Engage with multidisciplinary teams to analyze and design structural systems for industrial projects. Utilize your engineering expertise to develop concepts, perform calculations, and ensure design co...
Reposted 3 days ago
$110K - $130K *
Drive progress at our company by leading a team of SCADA engineers to implement advanced Ignition SCADA systems in data centers, ensuring quality execution and mentoring talent while managing multiple...
Reposted 4 weeks ago
Senior Transmission Line Engineer 1 - Grid
$84K - $129K *
Drive the design and development of high-voltage transmission lines, overseeing project teams and ensuring compliance with engineering standards while collaborating with clients and vendors to deliver...
Today
Quality Engineering Lead / Automation Architect
$117K - $143K *
Join a team that's redefining quality engineering by leading the transition to automation. Drive strategy, mentor a global QA team, and enhance testing frameworks to ensure high-quality software deliv...
1 week ago
$84K - $150K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of engineering solutions by leading technical engagement and demand creation, driving strategic plans, and fostering relationships with key stakeholders in a dyna...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$80K - $100K *
Transform complex network systems by leading design, implementation, and support efforts. Collaborate with diverse teams to enhance telecommunications infrastructures and ensure compliance with cybers...
3 weeks ago
Software Engineer, Autonomous Vehicles
$130K - $160K *
Lead the design and implementation of robust software for next-gen autonomous vehicle systems, enhancing safety and efficiency. Collaborate across teams to innovate and propel advancements in AI-drive...
Reposted 4 weeks ago
Mechanical Engineering Manager Energy - Remote
$119K - $199K *
Drive the design and development of mechanical systems for nuclear projects. Lead a team of engineers, manage performance, and interface with senior management to ensure project success and alignment...
3 days ago
Civil Project Engineer II/III - Renewable Energy Structural Design
$82K - $90K *
Engage in innovative structural design projects, focusing on renewable energy solutions. Collaborate with a dynamic team to develop project scopes, schedules, and budgets while enhancing your expertis...
2 days ago
Civil Project Engineer II/III - Renewable Energy Structural Design
$80K - $95K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of renewable energy through innovative civil engineering solutions. Contribute to the design of structures and bridges while managing projects and enhancing your...
2 weeks ago
Senior Staff Machine Learning Engineer, ML Understanding
$266K - $372K *
Optimize user personalization strategies by leading advanced ML user modeling initiatives. Shape cohesive user representation frameworks for improved engagement across Reddit's platforms, leveraging c...
3 weeks ago
$82K - $125K *
Develop and enhance software solutions for electric and gas distribution tools, leveraging AI coding assistants. Collaborate with experienced engineers to implement features, ensure quality, and optim...
1 week ago
Senior Manager, Software Engineering
$225K - $265K *
Partner with us to lead a high-performing engineering team, driving innovation and efficiency in our travel marketplace. You'll manage project lifecycles, enhance collaboration, and champion a custome...
6 days ago
Civil Engineering Lead Energy - Remote
$146K - $244K *
Lead civil engineering design for nuclear facilities, driving innovative solutions and overseeing technical teams. Collaborate across disciplines to address complex challenges and ensure compliance wi...
Reposted 2 days ago
Staff Software Engineer - AI Discovery & Posture
$135K - $160K *
Lead the charge in building AI agent discovery across cloud platforms and endpoints. Develop security assessments for AI agents that enhance the overall governance within our AI security framework, re...
Reposted 1 week ago
$160K - $230K *
Transform mission-critical applications by collaborating with AI engineers to enhance performance, scalability, and security. Drive technical excellence and mentor peers while navigating dynamic feder...
2 days ago
Software Engineer, Home Design Experience
$130K - $160K *
Shape the future of home design by leading technical architecture and delivery for a groundbreaking 3D application, collaborating closely with product teams to transform ideas into seamless experience...
Reposted 4 weeks ago
$136K - $160K *
Elevate operations through AI-driven automation to enhance incident management, streamline ticket resolution, and optimize service health with self-healing observability, all while collaborating acros...
Reposted 1 week ago
Technical Program Manager-Flight Software
$151K - $251K *
Drive the planning and execution of Flight Software development programs, ensuring seamless coordination between engineering and program management for timely delivery of spacecraft software systems...
Reposted 1 week ago
$131K - $243K *
Join a team that's driving sustainment transformation and adoption across programs. As a Project Engineer Staff, you'll lead initiatives, coordinate projects, and enhance processes to ensure successfu...
1 week ago
Senior Licensing Engineer Energy - Remote
$90K - $150K *
Drive the development and integration of licensing applications for fuel cycle facilities. Lead regulatory approaches, ensure application quality, and mentor engineers while interacting with clients a...
Reposted yesterday
$120K - $145K *
Innovate with us as you drive research initiatives, develop ML models, and translate complex algorithms into practical solutions, collaborating across teams to enhance fraud detection and authenticati...
2 days ago
Software Engineer I - LLM Observability
$160K - $180K *
Empower your career by delivering AI observability solutions end-to-end. Collaborate with a cross-functional team to enhance user experiences and drive insights into AI systems, shaping the future of...
1 week ago
What is a Research Engineer?
A Research Engineer applies engineering methods to investigate technical questions and develop tools, prototypes, or systems that advance research or translate discoveries into practical applications.
What qualifications do Research Engineer jobs require?
Requirements vary by specialty. Employers commonly look for an engineering or related technical degree, relevant programming or laboratory experience, analytical skills, and the ability to communicate research results. Some positions require advanced degrees or specialized expertise.
What industries hire Research Engineers?
Research Engineers are hired across technology, AI, robotics, biotechnology, healthcare, manufacturing, academia, and research laboratories, among other sectors.
How much do Research Engineers earn?
Compensation varies based on location, experience, specialization, and employer. Ladders focuses on vetted professional jobs paying $100,000 or more, and job listings may provide role-specific compensation information.
How can I find Research Engineer jobs paying $100,000 or more?
Browse Research Engineer listings on Ladders and review each posting’s salary information, responsibilities, and qualifications to identify roles that match your experience and goals.