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 *
Unlock potential by developing full-stack products that simplify scientific workflows, ensuring seamless integration and reliable operation through strong collaboration with users and a deep understan...
4 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Lead network engineering efforts to enhance tactical capabilities in air defense systems. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure secure information exchange and compliance across all phase...
1 week ago
Machine Learning Research Engineer
$120K - $145K *
Advance the field of ecosystem design by developing cutting-edge machine learning models that leverage geospatial data to enhance ecological metrics and inform sustainable practices across interdiscip...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Engineer I, Research Operations, (1st shift)
$75K - $100K *
Engage in high-throughput laboratory workflows to support mammalian cell-based processes. Collaborate with scientists to enhance reliability and scalability while maintaining quality control in a fast...
Reposted 4 days ago
$95K - $110K *
Drive project success by managing engineering initiatives from kickoff to delivery, ensuring quality and compliance while coordinating cross-functional teams and maintaining clear communication with s...
1 week ago
$110K - $130K *
Drive engineering success with expert support, optimizing customer workflows and resolving complex build issues while enhancing user experience through collaboration and proactive problem-solving...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$94K - $148K *
Lead engineering efforts to enhance in-flight experiences, overseeing design, development, and certification of complex systems. Collaborate with teams to ensure project success and compliance while m...
5 days ago
Civil Engineer - Solar Development
$82K - $124K *
Drive civil engineering excellence by providing early-stage support for Community Solar projects, focusing on stormwater management, site constraints, and permitting processes to ensure successful pro...
1 week ago
$80K - $100K *
Advance research in neurodevelopmental disabilities by leading data analysis, contributing to scientific publications, and mentoring trainees in a collaborative lab environment focused on autism and l...
Yesterday
Principal Environmental Engineer
$98K - $148K *
Drive environmental compliance and sustainability initiatives at a complex defense development facility, collaborating with various teams to ensure regulatory adherence while managing waste and implem...
Reposted 1 week ago
$83K - $133K *
Engage in innovative product solutions to add customer value, drive R&D projects, and enhance design processes. Collaborate creatively and independently, fostering product quality improvements and tec...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Senior Project Engineer - Engineered Materials
$105K - $178K *
Manage complex projects by analyzing client needs, developing plans, and ensuring compliance with UL requirements. Act as a key liaison to resolve issues while coordinating laboratory activities and p...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Member of Technical Staff, Research Engineer
$150K - $180K *
Lead the charge in empirical AI research, designing experiments and developing systems for task generation. Optimize agent models through real-world data analysis, benchmarking, and continuous iterati...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$110K - $125K *
Grow your career with an entry-level role supporting electrical engineering in oil and gas. Collaborate with experienced engineers on design, construction, and maintenance of electrical systems across...
2 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Elevate production efficiency by developing work instructions and designing test fixtures. This role requires translating engineering designs into manufacturable processes within a fast-paced satellit...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Join a team that's optimizing chemical systems to enhance client operations. As a subject matter expert, you'll troubleshoot, manage maintenance, and ensure compliance while collaborating with cross-f...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$180K - $250K *
Join a team that's redefining product engineering. Own high-impact features, ship daily, and rapidly iterate on user feedback in a fast-paced environment, utilizing cutting-edge AI tools to maximize p...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Senior Materials Engineer, Electrical Performance
$120K - $145K *
Drive innovation in dielectric materials for high-voltage components, enhancing performance in nuclear fusion environments. Collaborate across teams and lead R&D projects to ensure cutting-edge soluti...
1 week ago
$80K - $95K *
Contribute to diverse engineering projects by providing analysis, design, and consulting services. Collaborate with teams to ensure compliance, manage project scopes, and deliver quality results acros...
Reposted 5 days ago
$80K - $95K *
Help us deliver innovative engineering solutions across diverse projects. You'll lead investigations, perform analyses, and ensure compliance while collaborating with clients and teams to drive projec...
2 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Advance your career by providing vital engineering and consulting services across diverse projects. Engage in field investigations, engineering analyses, and client collaboration to ensure project suc...
2 weeks ago
$75K - $90K *
Join a team that's redefining geotechnical engineering through innovative consulting services. Engage in diverse projects, lead investigations, and drive analytical solutions while collaborating with...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Shape the future of geotechnical engineering by providing expert consulting and project management across diverse sectors. Collaborate with a team to deliver high-quality analysis, design, and impleme...
3 weeks ago
$75K - $90K *
Help us shape the future of engineering solutions by delivering expert consulting and analysis in diverse projects, ensuring quality and compliance while enhancing your expertise through hands-on coll...
3 weeks ago
$88K - $105K *
Manage and execute engineering projects, providing expert analysis, design, and compliance review while ensuring effective communication with clients and project teams across diverse sectors for optim...
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.