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.
$90K - $120K *
Engineer robust quality systems by guiding compliance and continuous improvement processes. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance product reliability and manufacturing efficiency, driving...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Champion innovative structural designs for transportation projects, ensuring compliance with safety standards and project timelines. Collaborate with teams to deliver high-quality solutions while ment...
3 days ago
Senior/Principal R&D Systems Engineer - Space-Based Remote Sensing Researcher, Onsite
$117K - $235K *
Innovate in remote sensing research by leading complex projects, implementing cutting-edge solutions, and driving technical excellence in space-based applications. Collaborate with multidisciplinary t...
1 week ago
Propulsion Production Engineer
$82K - $136K *
Lead the charge in supporting assembly and testing of propulsion systems, ensuring high-quality hardware performance across satellite programs while collaborating with cross-functional teams to achiev...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Join our dynamic team to manage geotechnical lab testing programs, ensuring compliance and quality. Collaborate across disciplines, mentor staff, and foster continuous improvement while engaging with...
5 days ago
$62K - $99K *
Join a team that's committed to delivering innovative construction solutions while supporting engineering projects through collaboration, technical analysis, and hands-on fieldwork. Ideal for recent g...
4 weeks ago
Research Engineer - EO/IR Image Processing
$90K - $155K *
Unlock the potential of advanced imagery science by collaborating with a dynamic team to develop and evaluate cutting-edge algorithms for EO/IR imagery, ensuring effective real-world application and p...
2 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Unlock potential by ensuring high-performance, secure, and scalable networks across multiple sites. Lead integration efforts for newly acquired companies while collaborating with IT and security teams...
Reposted 6 days ago
$80K - $95K *
Unlock project success by leading engineering deliverables, budgets, and schedules while coordinating with diverse teams and stakeholders to ensure timely and accurate execution in a collaborative env...
3 weeks ago
$105K - $155K *
Shape project success by leading engineering efforts, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Collaborate with teams to deliver high-quality results on time and within scope...
2 weeks ago
Engineering Operations Lead (MDA)
$110K - $130K *
Lead the charge in operational integration and technical synchronization for missile defense systems. Manage executive engineering rhythms, coordinate lifecycle documentation, and facilitate cross-dir...
3 days ago
$90K - $93K *
Join a team that's advancing microbiological research by executing laboratory projects on antibiotic resistance. Utilize genetic methodologies and collaborate with scientists to drive impactful discov...
Today
$134K - $201K *
Lead the charge in designing and delivering innovative electrical systems for energy and infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance and efficiency while mentoring junior engineers and managing compl...
2 days ago
$79K - $147K *
Shape the future of strategic defense by leading engineering projects, ensuring timely delivery and quality standards while collaborating with cross-functional teams to meet performance and budget goa...
3 days ago
$70K - $130K *
Drive project success by orchestrating activities across initiatives, translating technical concepts into actionable plans, and ensuring alignment with cost and schedule targets for optimal project de...
1 week ago
$64K - $95K *
Pioneer the mechanical design of aircraft engine nacelle components. Collaborate with manufacturers and vendors to define system architecture, generate technical data packages, and ensure compliance w...
1 week ago
$64K - $95K *
Drive the mechanical design of aircraft engine nacelle components, collaborating with manufacturers and vendors to ensure compliance with technical requirements while generating detailed technical dat...
1 week ago
Sr. Manufacturing Engineer - NPX
$100K - $140K *
Empower innovation in medical device manufacturing by leading process development, optimizing production, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Collaborate cross-functionally to enhance pro...
Yesterday
Sr. Manufacturing Engineer - NPX
$100K - $140K *
Join a team that's dedicated to advancing medical device manufacturing. Leverage your expertise to optimize processes, ensure compliance, and drive continuous improvement in a dynamic environment focu...
Yesterday
R&D Semiconductor Device Engineer
$110K - $130K *
Unlock potential by managing device development projects from concept to production, collaborating with cross-functional teams to define technology requirements, design processes, and ensure high-qual...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $132K *
Innovate cutting-edge 3D printing techniques while collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams. Tackle complex engineering challenges and enhance product performance through experimentation and data-d...
2 weeks ago
Senior Sourcing Engineer, Infrastructure
$109K - $180K *
Join a team that's redefining sourcing strategies for infrastructure categories. You'll lead end-to-end sourcing, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and drive cost savings while managing supplie...
1 week ago
Engineer I, Digital Engagement
$85K - $120K *
Develop impactful software solutions as a core team member, collaborating closely with senior engineers to execute on features and improve existing systems while driving tangible outcomes in the digit...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Partner with us to ensure high-performance, secure networks across multiple sites. You'll play a key role in integrating new systems and enhancing network capabilities, ensuring our infrastructure is...
Reposted 6 days ago
$95K - $115K *
Contribute to impactful land development projects by leading design teams, collaborating with clients, and driving innovative solutions. Leverage your expertise to enhance project outcomes and strengt...
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.