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.
Staff Machine Learning Framework, Complier & Performance Engineer
$130K - $155K *
Develop and enhance ML/AI compilers, analyzing algorithms to optimize performance on future hardware. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive innovation in Qualcomm's ML HW/SW offerings, ensu...
2 days ago
Senior Analytics Engineer, Full-stack
$100K - $250K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of AI software development by owning our full data stack, from ETL to business intelligence, and driving impactful data modeling and visualization efforts across...
2 weeks ago
Lead Infrastructure Engineer - Hybrid Cloud & Automation Solutions
$130K - $155K *
Optimize and implement secure, scalable infrastructure solutions across Windows, Citrix, AWS, and Azure. Collaborate with teams to drive automation and design zero-trust architectures, enhancing infra...
2 weeks ago
Lead Infrastructure Engineer - Hybrid Cloud & Automation Solutions
$130K - $155K *
Optimize and implement scalable, secure infrastructure solutions across Windows, Citrix, AWS, and Azure. Drive automation and collaborate with teams to design zero-trust architectures, enhancing infra...
2 weeks ago
Senior Site Reliability Engineer I
$95K - $158K *
Drive the reliability and scalability of critical systems by leading automation efforts. Collaborate with engineering teams to enhance performance and deliver exceptional customer experiences while ma...
3 weeks ago
Engineering Manager, Customer Trust
$135K - $160K *
Lead and innovate within a high-impact engineering team, driving automation and transparency in customer assessments. Foster a culture of accountability while collaborating cross-functionally to deliv...
2 weeks ago
Senior Structural Engineer, Data Centers - Remote (U.S.)
$110K - $130K *
Join a dynamic team as a Senior Structural Engineer, leading innovative design for hyperscale data centers. Leverage your expertise in concrete and steel structures to deliver impactful projects while...
2 weeks ago
Senior Engineering Manager - Client Group
$230K - $250K *
Innovate with us to lead a talented engineering team, driving technical strategy and cross-functional collaboration. Shape impactful systems in billing and enrollment while fostering a culture of owne...
Today
Forward Deployed Engineer (Mid/Senior) - Remote w/Travel
$120K - $145K *
Transform healthcare through innovative AI deployments. As a key technical expert, you'll develop and implement cutting-edge systems that enhance clinical workflows and optimize patient interactions...
3 weeks ago
$100K - $120K *
Join a team that's driving the future of renewable energy by managing complex construction projects. You'll oversee execution strategies, ensure compliance, and lead cross-functional teams to deliver...
1 week ago
$98K - $164K *
Unlock potential by leading power system engineering efforts to design innovative electrification solutions for EHV/HV substations, ensuring project execution success and maximizing business developme...
Reposted 1 week ago
Senior People Business Partner, Engineering
$115K - $194K *
Unlock your potential as a strategic partner to senior Engineering leaders, driving organizational change and fostering a high-performance culture across global teams in a fast-paced tech environment...
6 days ago
Senior Software Engineer (Remote Sensing)
$155K - $185K *
Join a growing aerospace organization to design and develop backend software for remote sensing systems, influencing the entire operational structure through autonomous project ownership and collabora...
4 weeks ago
Regional Engineer - South East
$80K - $95K *
Lead the charge in developing innovative geotechnical solutions, coordinating strategic relationships with engineering firms, and managing key projects to drive sales growth and ensure technical feasi...
Reposted 1 week ago
$125K - $150K *
Analyze market data and develop automated trading strategies in a fast-paced environment. Collaborate with a skilled quantitative team to identify trading opportunities and enhance execution systems f...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Lead the technical health of a claims platform by enhancing applications, ensuring system stability, and bridging engineering with business needs. This hybrid role combines hands-on development with s...
Today
Software Engineer II - Offboard Python Application
$150K - $225K *
Join a team that's transforming vehicle simulation workflows to enhance safety and performance. You'll develop cloud-based applications, optimize scalability, and engage with users to create intuitive...
2 days ago
Senior or Senior II Engineer - Market Services (Remote Eligible)
$108K - $137K *
Empower operations by ensuring data integrity for market systems. Partner to verify service reservations and regulatory compliance while providing analytical insights to enhance stakeholder engagement...
Reposted 1 week ago
Staff Product Security Engineer
$150K - $180K *
Champion the security strategy for a cutting-edge platform, focusing on supply chain security, code scanning, and threat modeling. Collaborate with teams to enhance security practices and drive innova...
3 days ago
$180K - $220K *
Lead the charge in building and scaling cloud infrastructure, ensuring reliability and performance. Collaborate on Kubernetes, AWS, and CI/CD systems to support critical operations and enhance infrast...
3 weeks ago
Field Engineer (Traveling Foundations)
$75K - $95K *
Join a team that's delivering complex geotechnical construction projects across the U.S. as a Field Engineer. Support project execution, manage documentation, and collaborate with experienced professi...
1 month ago
Senior Building Consultant, North East
$85K - $125K *
Unlock potential by leading property damage evaluations and restoration projects. In this hybrid role, you'll collaborate with clients and stakeholders, leveraging your expertise to manage complex ass...
3 days ago
$122K - $165K *
Lead the charge in shaping data engineering practices, enhancing quality and delivery standards for enterprise data products. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive scalable solutions and en...
4 weeks ago
Solutions Engineer - Cloud & DevOps
$90K - $145K *
Unlock your potential by designing CI/CD pipelines and automating processes. Collaborate with teams to enhance development efficiency while ensuring system compliance and security across AWS and Azure...
1 week ago
Senior Power Systems Engineer - ERCOT Interconnection
$110K - $130K *
Champion the future of energy by leading technical power system interconnection efforts. Drive complex analysis and team performance to optimize generation and transmission services, shaping strategic...
3 weeks 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.