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.
$110K - $130K *
Accelerate progress at the forefront of cybersecurity by designing, deploying, and supporting security technologies. Collaborate with clients to enhance their security posture while aligning with busi...
2 weeks ago
$145K - $170K *
Transform the future of EV charging by leading DevOps initiatives, enhancing cloud infrastructure, and ensuring system reliability. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive innovation and deli...
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Senior Litigation Counsel (Engineering / Construction)
$175K - $200K *
Lead the charge in managing complex litigation and advising on legal risks, ensuring compliance while collaborating with internal teams and outside counsel to drive effective case strategies and resol...
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Staff Motion Planning Engineer
$168K - $225K *
Unlock potential by developing innovative algorithms for autonomous vehicle motion planning. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to create robust software solutions that ensure safe and efficient...
1 week ago
Lead, Computerized Systems Validation - Canada
$100K - $120K *
Transform high-risk computerized systems validation by leading initiatives, collaborating with stakeholders, and ensuring GxP compliance throughout the system lifecycle. Utilize expertise to drive str...
4 weeks ago
NPI Manufacturing Engineer - AI Compute Hardware
$160K - $500K+*
Elevate production capabilities by leading NPI for AI compute systems, ensuring robust manufacturing processes from EVT to mass production. Collaborate cross-functionally to deliver scalable, efficien...
4 weeks ago
$90K - $110K *
Shape the future of product quality by designing automated tests and performance evaluations, ensuring reliability and scalability in complex systems. Collaborate across teams to drive innovation and...
4 weeks ago
Senior Relay Settings Engineer
$107K - $195K *
Unlock potential by leading the design and implementation of relay settings for utility substations and renewable energy projects, collaborating with engineers and clients to solve complex engineering...
2 weeks ago
Linear Accelerator - Field Service Engineer
$110K - $160K *
Shape the future of healthcare by ensuring optimal performance of Linear Accelerators. Collaborate with clients and colleagues to deliver exceptional service, troubleshoot issues, and maintain equipme...
2 weeks ago
Senior Machine Learning Engineer, Agentic Systems (Active Secret Clearance)
$185K - $230K *
Unlock your potential as a Senior Machine Learning Engineer, driving innovative AI solutions and enhancing performance across complex workflows. Collaborate with diverse teams to shape the future of A...
2 weeks ago
Site Reliability Engineering Manager
$114K - $190K *
Build a resilient Site Reliability Engineering practice, leading a global team to enhance cloud platform reliability, scalability, and operational excellence while fostering collaboration and continuo...
1 week ago
AI Infrastructure DC Design Engineer IV
$114K - $180K *
Transform infrastructure design by leading complex data center initiatives, driving technical standards, and mentoring teams. Collaborate across functions to enhance operational excellence and innovat...
1 week ago
AI Infrastructure DC Design Engineer IV
$114K - $180K *
Shape the future of data center design by leading complex infrastructure initiatives, enforcing engineering standards, and mentoring teams to drive innovation and operational excellence across multipl...
1 week ago
AI Infrastructure DC Design Engineer IV
$114K - $180K *
Shape the future of data center design by leading complex infrastructure initiatives, enforcing engineering standards, and mentoring teams to drive innovation and operational excellence across multipl...
1 week ago
$139K - $235K *
Drive your career forward by owning SEC reporting and disclosures, coordinating cross-functional processes, and enhancing the quality and efficiency of external financial reporting as a critical membe...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Sr. Analog IC Design Engineer - IVR Architecture Team (Remote)
$135K - $170K *
Advance the future of power ICs by driving system architecture and design for cutting-edge voltage regulators. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure optimal performance and innovative solu...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Machine Learning Engineering Manager
$232K - $303K *
Transform the user experience by leading innovative projects that enhance product functionality and drive customer satisfaction across diverse teams and platforms...
Yesterday
Engineering Manager, Identity & Access Platform
$195K - $236K *
Optimize our identity and access platform by leading a skilled engineering team. Drive technical direction, manage architecture decisions, and enhance security practices while fostering collaboration...
1 week ago
$110K - $159K *
Make your mark at the forefront of innovation as a Senior Technical Project Manager, overseeing proposal development, facilitating cross-functional collaboration, and ensuring successful project execu...
Reposted today
Senior / Staff Backend Engineer, Maps
$150K - $180K *
Optimize our geocoding platform by managing a robust data foundation. You'll engage in high-impact projects, working on integrations, modeling, and serving location data while leveraging AI to enhance...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Lead the charge in managing high-impact data center construction projects, overseeing timelines, budgets, and stakeholder collaboration to ensure operational success from inception to completion...
Reposted 1 week ago
$126K - $160K *
Drive impactful software solutions by collaborating with sales teams, leading demos, and managing technical inquiries. Leverage your expertise to enhance customer experiences and support enterprise tr...
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Principal Consultant - Gas Pipeline/FERC Expert
$161K - $230K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of energy by providing expert consulting on gas pipelines and FERC regulations. Lead client engagements, manage deliverables, and drive business development while...
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Senior Software Engineer II - LLM Observability
$250K - $280K *
Empower the development of AI observability capabilities, architecting data models and infrastructure while collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance user workflows and insights into AI sys...
1 week ago
Senior Software Engineer II - Agentic SDLC
$170K - $185K *
Champion innovative software solutions by leading complex projects, mentoring engineers, and driving technical excellence across teams. Collaborate on strategic initiatives to enhance reliability and...
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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.