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.
$74K - $102K *
Elevate innovation by developing and optimizing surface-modified membranes for advanced filtration applications in semiconductor manufacturing, collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive produ...
4 weeks ago
$70K - $100K *
Join a team that's dedicated to delivering exceptional technical support and solutions. Collaborate with customers and internal teams to drive product knowledge and sales effectiveness while managing...
2 days ago
Research Engineer - RL Infrastructure & Agent Environments
$120K - $145K *
Develop robust AI evaluation environments for long-horizon workflows, addressing engineering and research challenges to enhance agent training and assessment, fostering innovation within complex syste...
Reposted 1 week ago
$134K - $201K *
Lead the charge in designing and delivering complex mechanical systems for energy and infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance and efficiency while mentoring junior engineers and managing multidis...
4 days ago
Advanced Engineer, Reliability
$95K - $115K *
Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing the reliability and safety of instrumentation and electrical systems. Drive proactive initiatives, support plant operations, and ensure compliance with indust...
6 days ago
R&D Engineer - Fusion Generator Operations
$110K - $130K *
Grow your expertise in high-energy fusion systems by ensuring safe, reliable operations and conducting complex experiments. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to innovate and enhance system perfo...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Drive the execution of CAPEX projects by ensuring engineering standards, coordinating teams, and managing project phases from conception to delivery, promoting efficiency and collaboration across vari...
3 weeks ago
Lead Research and Development Scientist/Engineer I
$95K - $115K *
Drive innovation by leading R&D efforts to develop and enhance cutting-edge technologies, processes, and products. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve business objectives and mentor jun...
5 days ago
Research Engineer, Responsibility, DeepMind
$207K - $300K *
Champion innovation by designing scalable AI solutions and collaborating with experts to advance Responsible AI. Drive impactful research, technical leadership, and best practices to address emerging...
4 weeks ago
Senior Engineer, Control Systems
$89K - $124K *
Empower manufacturing excellence by leading control systems projects, enhancing productivity, and ensuring safety. Collaborate with teams to troubleshoot and innovate, driving continuous improvement i...
1 week ago
$120K - $130K *
Accelerate progress at naval aviation readiness by leveraging your analytical skills to evaluate maintenance and logistics data. Collaborate with diverse teams to enhance mission capability and suppor...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Advance your career by leading the design and development of innovative mechanical systems for cutting-edge uranium enrichment technology, ensuring high performance and safety standards throughout the...
6 days ago
$160K - $185K *
Lead technical innovation in the design and development of cutting-edge medical devices, collaborating cross-functionally to ensure manufacturability and compliance from concept through commercial rel...
1 week ago
$80K - $95K *
Partner with us to enhance production processes and quality controls, driving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction in a high-reliability electronics environment through robust engineering...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$151K - $281K *
Build and test advanced robotic systems for brain surgery, ensuring hardware reliability through innovative diagnostics and automation. Collaborate with engineers, streamline processes, and translate...
3 weeks ago
$151K - $281K *
Manage the robotic test fleet for brain surgery, focusing on automation and robust performance analysis while troubleshooting hardware failures and ensuring operational excellence...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Accelerate your career in water resources management, leading projects and teams. Engage in design, analysis, and communication with clients, while ensuring quality standards and safety in challenging...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Transform your career by providing engineering and consulting services across diverse projects. Lead investigations, design plans, and ensure compliance while collaborating with clients and teams to d...
Yesterday
$80K - $95K *
Lead the charge in delivering engineering and consulting services across diverse projects. Oversee investigations, analyses, and design while ensuring compliance and quality standards. Collaborate wit...
2 days ago
$80K - $95K *
Transform projects by providing engineering expertise and consulting services, ensuring compliance with standards, and guiding teams through various tasks. Collaborate with clients and peers while man...
3 weeks ago
$115K - $138K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of space exploration by leading power electronics design and testing for innovative space flight hardware. Collaborate on cutting-edge projects from concept to de...
Yesterday
Research Mechanical Engineer, Robotics
$120K - $145K *
Join a team that's tackling complex mechanical and electrical design challenges to create innovative robotic systems that prioritize performance, reliability, and user experience...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Shape applied research initiatives by conducting innovative engineering projects, advising teams, and ensuring successful outcomes. Engage with industry partners and contribute to advancing standards...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Lead the development and launch of a new gas strut product line, optimizing manufacturing processes and collaborating across teams to ensure quality and efficiency in production. Drive technical exper...
Yesterday
R&D Electronics Engineer - Telemetry Engineering, Onsite
$121K - $237K *
Join a team that's at the forefront of telemetry innovation, designing and testing cutting-edge electronics for critical systems. Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineers to ensure seamless integr...
Reposted today
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.