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.
$100K - $120K *
Manage diverse highway improvement projects, ensuring quality designs and plans while collaborating with teams. Oversee budgets, schedules, and client interactions, contributing to impactful infrastru...
1 week ago
Electrical Engineer, Data Center - Design Engineering and Construction - Ops Eng
$120K - $145K *
Join a team that's driving innovation in data center operations by leading complex electrical engineering projects. Collaborate cross-functionally to enhance system performance and reliability while s...
1 week ago
$94K - $156K *
Unlock innovative solutions in spacecraft guidance, navigation, and control. Collaborate with senior engineers to design, analyze, and validate systems for groundbreaking missions, enhancing algorithm...
3 weeks ago
$100K - $120K *
Join a team that's redefining sensor system design to enhance physical asset protection. Collaborate on innovative mechanical solutions, optimize manufacturing processes, and support field deployments...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$100K - $120K *
Drive robust industrial process development for defense-grade steel forgings, ensuring compliance and stability through statistical analysis, while collaborating with teams to optimize production and...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$80K - $110K *
Grow your career with us as you lead design projects for US Navy test facilities, collaborating on innovative electrical solutions. Utilize AutoCAD and your engineering expertise to empower the team t...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Engineer I/II, Research Operations (1st shift)
$75K - $124K *
Drive high-throughput laboratory workflows in a dynamic research environment. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance automation processes and ensure operational excellence across various b...
Today
$133K - $148K *
Lead the design and development of innovative medical device electronics. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance existing products and architect next-gen hardware, ensuring high-quality pe...
2 weeks ago
$100K - $120K *
Elevate compliance in electrical design and construction through stringent reviews and inspections, fostering innovation in mission-critical facilities for government projects while leading a team and...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Grow your career with us by collaborating in a dynamic team environment to successfully deliver projects on time and budget, while enhancing safety, quality, and efficiency across all project phases...
Reposted 1 week ago
$110K - $130K *
Engage as a Project Engineer in Electrical to ensure construction adheres to design standards. Collaborate with teams to solve field issues, lead technical evaluations, and manage project deliverables...
Reposted 1 week ago
Staff Electrical Engineer - New Technologies
$152K - $229K *
Innovate robust electrical solutions by leading design, testing, and prototyping of cutting-edge electronic assemblies and circuits in a dynamic, collaborative environment that drives key weapon syste...
Reposted 1 week ago
$80K - $95K *
Unlock the potential of construction safety through the development and implementation of effective health programs, ensuring compliance and fostering a proactive culture to prevent incidents on diver...
3 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Innovate engineering designs and construction management for heavy industrial projects. Collaborate with project teams to ensure compliance with codes and deliver solutions that enhance system reliabi...
Reposted 1 week ago
$120K - $155K *
Drive the development of cutting-edge defense technologies, collaborating with cross-functional teams to design and validate advanced RF systems, ensuring seamless integration into next-gen platforms...
2 weeks ago
Research Engineer, Privacy and Anonymization
$130K - $225K *
Join a team that's building innovative privacy systems for AI, ensuring sensitive data is protected while maintaining its utility. Collaborate across functions to develop robust solutions that safegua...
Yesterday
Electronic Engineer - San Francisco
$150K - $200K *
Shape the future of AI wearables by designing and developing cutting-edge electronic systems. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration and rapid iteration of prototypes t...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$88K - $105K *
Drive innovative solutions as a Systems Engineer, leveraging your expertise in enterprise environments to enhance system performance and security while collaborating with cross-functional teams to ach...
Today
Research Member of Technical Staff- Training Systems
$160K - $190K *
Optimize large-scale multimodal ML training systems for efficiency and scalability. Collaborate with researchers and engineers to enhance performance metrics and drive innovation across thousands of G...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Join our expert Control Engineering team to deliver innovative MIMO control solutions across industries like semiconductor, aerospace, and energy, enhancing your skills in a collaborative environment...
3 weeks ago
$92K - $110K *
Lead the development of innovative Intervention and Stimulation solutions, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to design, prototype, and deliver high-performance products that meet market need...
1 week ago
Senior II/Staff Mechatronics Engineer
$136K - $217K *
Accelerate progress at the forefront of mechatronics innovation, collaborating with diverse teams to design and refine advanced electromechanical systems and robotics solutions, transforming ideas int...
Reposted 5 days ago
$108K - $130K *
Join a dynamic team to deliver innovative application and system development across multi-technology platforms. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, mentor peers, and influence technical decisions...
Reposted 1 week ago
$165K - $166K *
Drive technical excellence by leading cross-functional teams, gathering requirements, and proposing innovative solutions. Mentor peers while managing enhancements and ensuring quality in application d...
1 week ago
$81K - $108K *
Unlock potential by bridging engineering and client needs in low light imaging. Engage in technical support, product testing, and optimization while contributing to innovative camera solutions for var...
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.