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.
Applied Scientist / Research Engineer - Data Quality & Evaluation
$120K - $145K *
Join a dynamic team to enhance AI model performance through innovative data curation, evaluation frameworks, and automated tools. Collaborate across disciplines to translate research insights into pra...
1 week ago
$167K - $209K *
Drive the mechanical design and integration of ruggedized VPX electronics for aerospace and defense applications, collaborating across disciplines to develop production-ready hardware from concept thr...
1 month ago
$130K - $155K *
Elevate user experience by owning product interfaces and roadmaps. Collaborate with engineers to solve complex problems, ensuring reliability and customer satisfaction on a critical platform used by t...
1 week ago
$100K - $120K *
Invent and enhance cutting-edge robotic workcells by building, testing, and optimizing mechanical and electromechanical systems. Collaborate across disciplines to ensure seamless integration and effec...
Today
Staff Reliability Engineer - Power Electronics
$165K - $220K *
Drive product reliability for innovative home energy solutions by collaborating with engineers, developing test plans, and analyzing field performance to enhance sustainability and product quality thr...
Today
$80K - $152K *
Manage project execution within the Command, Control, and Communications team, collaborating with engineering and program management to ensure successful delivery of innovative solutions in communicat...
1 week ago
Principal Reliability Engineer
$130K - $183K *
Pioneer reliability in next-gen power systems by translating real-world stress into quantitative test plans. Own reliability from design to production, ensuring product longevity through rigorous test...
1 week ago
General Interdisciplinary Engineer (Journeyman)
$132K - $142K *
Lead innovative engineering solutions by tackling complex challenges and advancing program methodologies. Collaborate across disciplines to enhance standards and drive impactful projects within a dyna...
Reposted 5 days ago
$116K - $175K *
Transform energy solutions by leading advanced electrical engineering projects, ensuring compliance and efficiency in designs for healthcare and educational infrastructures while mentoring junior engi...
2 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Drive structural engineering projects in diverse sectors, ensuring compliance and quality. Collaborate with clients and stakeholders while mentoring junior team members. Engage in innovative solutions...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Elevate your engineering career by collaborating on diverse structural projects. Engage in innovative designs and solutions while managing project deliverables, fostering relationships with clients, a...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Empower a diverse team by leading structural engineering projects in wood construction. Engage in site investigations, analyze data, and deliver innovative engineering solutions while managing client...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Help us ensure product excellence by developing and implementing robust quality assurance processes. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify defects, drive improvements, and maintain compl...
3 weeks ago
Senior Research Engineering Scientist
$185K - $315K *
Champion the development of cutting-edge enterprise language models, leveraging AI and ML expertise to solve complex challenges. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance model performance an...
Today
$95K - $115K *
Lead the charge in designing innovative Coolant Distribution Units for AI and data centers, overseeing the full product lifecycle from concept to production while applying expertise in thermal systems...
2 days ago
$139K - $157K *
Lead the charge in ensuring quality excellence for aerospace electronics. Drive inspection, testing, and compliance processes while collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance product reliabi...
2 weeks ago
$81K - $121K *
Accelerate progress at our manufacturing campus by leading capital projects that enhance operations and drive efficiency. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver impactful results from conc...
1 week ago
Senior Electrical Project Engineer
$100K - $120K *
Lead the charge in overseeing electrical engineering projects, ensuring technical excellence and project success. Mentor new engineers while directing project teams and collaborating on innovative des...
1 week ago
$80K - $95K *
Shape the future of production by resolving technical challenges to meet quality and productivity targets in a dynamic automotive manufacturing environment, while collaborating with engineers and lead...
Reposted today
Eng-Electrical - Sr Project Engineer
$125K - $165K *
Champion the successful delivery of large-scale building projects, leading a team of engineers while enhancing design processes and ensuring quality outcomes from concept through construction...
Yesterday
Electrical/Control Systems Engineer
$80K - $95K *
Lead the charge in designing innovative electrical and control systems for water and wastewater facilities, ensuring seamless integration of technology for efficient operation and monitoring...
3 weeks ago
$88K - $110K *
Accelerate progress at our manufacturing site by optimizing operations, enhancing quality, and driving cost efficiency. Collaborate with teams to troubleshoot issues and implement improvements for saf...
1 week ago
$116K - $175K *
Transform energy solutions by leading advanced electrical engineering designs for healthcare and educational infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance and efficiency while solving complex technical...
2 weeks ago
$130K - $160K *
Join a team that's pushing boundaries in AI-driven software development. As a key product engineer, you will lead high-impact projects, collaborate across disciplines, and shape the user experience fr...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Transform product development through customer engagement, leading cross-functional teams and technical initiatives. Drive innovation and enhance reliability by managing the full lifecycle of complex...
Reposted 2 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.