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.
AI RESEARCH SCIENTIST/ENGINEER
$110K - $130K *
Advance healthcare solutions by leveraging AI to tackle complex, multi-disciplinary problems through rigorous research and development, collaborating with a dynamic team to transform ideas into effect...
3 weeks ago
Staff AI/ML Research Engineer, Cloud AI Research
$207K - $300K *
Champion the design and optimization of advanced AI agent systems, leading cross-functional teams to develop scalable solutions that enhance operational efficiency and drive innovation in machine lear...
6 days ago
$90K - $130K *
Join a dynamic team as a Mechanical Engineer, where you'll leverage your expertise to drive ship design projects, enhancing performance and compliance throughout the development and construction phase...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $150K *
Unlock potential by contributing mechanical engineering expertise to ship design management, supporting technical efforts from concept to installation while ensuring compliance and performance optimiz...
3 weeks ago
R & D Electrical Design Engineer
$90K - $110K *
Elevate the future of electronic systems by researching, designing, and prototyping innovative solutions for commercial vehicles. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transform concepts into fun...
2 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Manage the lifecycle of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, enhancing reliability and performance. Lead troubleshooting efforts, support continuous improvement initiatives, and provide technical gu...
2 weeks ago
$100K - $151K *
Unlock potential by joining a dynamic team focused on innovative energy solutions. Collaborate on the design and integration of cutting-edge Solid State Transformer products, tackling complex challeng...
1 week ago
$69K - $104K *
Advance your career as an entry-level Environmental Engineer, collaborating with experts to enhance environmental assessment and remediation projects. Engage in field investigations and support divers...
1 week ago
$69K - $104K *
Empower environmental solutions by supporting diverse projects in assessment and remediation. Collaborate with experts to enhance quality of life through innovative engineering design and field invest...
1 week ago
$95K - $115K *
Advance your career by partnering with us to develop and verify safety-critical systems for our commercial Seaglider program. Lead requirements management and support certification compliance while co...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Shape the future of mechanical design by creating innovative systems that enhance performance and usability. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop prototypes and refine designs based on r...
1 week ago
$150K - $250K *
Join a team that's redefining thermal design for radar satellites. You will drive thermal architecture, validate simulation tools, and collaborate closely across engineering disciplines to enhance sat...
4 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Empower innovation by leading diverse building projects as an Electrical Engineer. Collaborate across disciplines to design power distribution, lighting, and safety systems, ensuring successful projec...
3 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Lead complex electrical design projects across diverse building types, ensuring effective collaboration and technical excellence in power distribution and safety systems while supporting mid to large...
3 weeks ago
Structural Engineer 2 - Nuclear
$69K - $99K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of clean energy through innovative structural engineering. Collaborate on diverse projects, apply your expertise, and guide junior engineers while enjoying a hybr...
1 week ago
Configuration & Design Engineer
$115K - $155K *
Elevate product integrity by leading configuration management processes, ensuring accurate documentation and change control across engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain teams for hardware and s...
2 weeks ago
Engineering Technologist, Mechanical (ARL)
$68K - $102K *
Join a team that's dedicated to innovative mechanical design solutions, collaborating with R&D engineers to create 3D models and 2D drawings, while ensuring compliance and effective project management...
1 week ago
$80K - $100K *
Lead the charge in designing and repairing highway bridge projects, ensuring quality and accuracy through all phases. Collaborate with teams, mentor junior staff, and oversee project documentation whi...
1 week ago
$146K - $270K *
Join a dedicated team that drives semiconductor manufacturing innovation through advanced problem-solving and customer engagement, improving tool performance and product development from concept to re...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Fuel Fabrication Project Engineer
$100K - $150K *
Engage in critical nuclear project activities by coordinating multidisciplinary teams, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving project timelines while fostering collaboration among engineering, pr...
4 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Engineer production processes by optimizing methods to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and support technology scale-up. Collaborate with cross-department teams and lead capital projects to achieve o...
3 weeks ago
$90K - $150K *
Shape innovative instrumentation for space exploration by collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and advancing technology in extreme environments. Contribute from design to testing of systems esse...
4 weeks ago
$90K - $150K *
Innovate with our dynamic engineering team to develop cutting-edge instruments for space missions. Contribute to the design, testing, and integration of advanced technology for lunar and deep space ap...
4 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Analyze and enhance electrical systems for optimal performance and safety. Collaborate with design teams and manage documentation to drive innovative improvements in industrial heating applications. L...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$95K - $106K *
Elevate manufacturing excellence by driving process improvements, ensuring product quality, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to transition new products to production seamlessly. Champion...
4 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.