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.
$115K - $190K *
Develop comprehensive engineering solutions that address operational needs while synthesizing high-level requirements into documentation and repeatable procedures for a critical government contract...
3 weeks ago
$100K - $120K *
Innovate mission success by combining engineering expertise with operations strategy. Drive mission design, planning, and execution while collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver exception...
3 weeks ago
Intermediate Geotechnical Engineer
$80K - $95K *
Elevate your career as you manage geotechnical projects, from site investigation to design and reporting. Collaborate with senior engineers while gaining hands-on experience in seismic assessments, la...
Reposted 1 week ago
Intermediate Geotechnical Engineer
$80K - $95K *
Support geotechnical projects, driving analysis and design for diverse infrastructure. Collaborate with senior engineers, manage scopes of work, and contribute to seismic assessments while mentoring j...
Reposted 1 week ago
Intermediate Geotechnical Engineer
$80K - $95K *
Elevate your career by supporting geotechnical projects, from site investigation to design and reporting. Collaborate with senior engineers on diverse projects, including seismic assessments, dams, an...
Reposted 1 week ago
Intermediate Geotechnical Engineer
$80K - $95K *
Drive geotechnical projects from inception to completion, focusing on seismic assessments, land development, and infrastructure. Collaborate with senior engineers to enhance your skills and lead proje...
Reposted 1 week ago
$70K - $130K *
Join a team that's dedicated to optimizing manufacturing processes through data-driven insights and innovative solutions. Collaborate with leadership to enhance production efficiency and implement con...
2 days ago
$79K - $147K *
Unlock potential by optimizing manufacturing processes through data analysis, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Drive efficiency and implement impactful solutions in a fast-paced environment...
1 week ago
$114K - $165K *
Lead the charge in optimizing fuel cell manufacturing processes, addressing production challenges, and driving efficiency improvements through data analysis and cross-functional collaboration...
Yesterday
Process Engineering Supervisor
$72K - $103K *
Champion a dynamic team in manufacturing excellence, driving safety, quality, and efficiency. Lead process improvements and foster a culture of accountability while managing production schedules and t...
2 days ago
$110K - $170K *
Transform complex electrical designs into innovative solutions, managing challenging projects, and ensuring high-quality deliverables while fostering strong client relationships and collaborating with...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Engineer cutting-edge mechanical systems through design, analysis, and testing. Focus on thermal, structural, and packaging challenges under various environmental conditions to ensure optimal performa...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Systems Engineer - Machine Learning
$155K - $200K *
Develop and optimize ML infrastructure that powers real-time model serving for robotics, collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance efficiency, reliability, and performance across various au...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$120K - $145K *
Engineer scalable, secure web applications while mentoring junior engineers and collaborating with customers to solve complex challenges. Drive architectural decisions and enhance product quality in a...
2 weeks ago
$125K - $150K *
Shape the future of our scalable architecture by owning stability, security, and performance. Collaborate with customers and teams to solve complex challenges while mentoring junior engineers and driv...
2 weeks ago
Process Engineering Project Technical Leader - Microelectronics
$110K - $130K *
Champion the development of innovative water treatment solutions, leading a team of Process Engineers to deliver integrated designs that meet customer needs while ensuring technical excellence and com...
4 days ago
$100K - $125K *
Advance your career by providing technical expertise in ultra-pure water systems. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance performance, reliability, and compliance while driving continuous i...
3 days ago
Mechanical Engineer - Generalist
$121K - $185K *
Elevate your career by joining a dynamic team focused on cutting-edge laser systems and electromechanical engineering. Contribute to innovative projects that push the boundaries of science and technol...
5 days ago
Electrical Engineer - Embedded Electronics, Onsite
$102K - $199K *
Lead the charge in innovative electrical engineering projects, collaborating with cross-functional teams to design, develop, and test cutting-edge embedded systems for transportation safety and securi...
5 days ago
$80K - $90K *
Contribute to innovative civil engineering projects, focusing on stormwater management, drainage design, and urban resilience. Collaborate with clients and teams to deliver sustainable infrastructure...
2 weeks ago
$80K - $90K *
Join a team that's dedicated to innovative civil engineering solutions, focusing on stormwater management and urban infrastructure. Collaborate on diverse projects from planning to design, ensuring su...
2 weeks ago
Principal Manufacturing Engineer
$130K - $165K *
Elevate your career by leading manufacturing process development and optimization in the medical device sector. Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure compliance and drive continuous improvement ini...
2 weeks ago
Principal Manufacturing Engineer
$130K - $165K *
Elevate your career as a Manufacturing Engineer, driving process development and optimization in medical device production. Collaborate cross-functionally to enhance quality and efficiency while ensur...
2 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Elevate product innovation by independently designing and evaluating complex engineering solutions. Collaborate across teams to enhance product performance and support manufacturing, ensuring adherenc...
4 days ago
$110K - $130K *
Lead a team of electrical engineers to deliver high-quality project outcomes. Oversee technical issues, manage project scope, and ensure adherence to budget and schedule while fostering collaboration...
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.