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.
$124K - $135K *
Lead the development and implementation of quality plans, ensuring compliance with agency specifications while overseeing QA/QC activities and documentation for large-scale construction projects in tr...
2 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Join us to lead bridge design and inspection projects, mentor junior engineers, and manage complex engineering tasks. Bring your experience and passion for innovative solutions, while growing your car...
3 weeks ago
$88K - $105K *
Champion the design and inspection of bridge projects, lead mentoring efforts, and manage complex processes to ensure compliance with PennDOT standards while fostering career growth for structural sta...
3 weeks ago
$85K - $100K *
Engage your expertise to lead bridge projects, mentoring junior engineers while ensuring compliance with PennDOT/ PTC standards. Join a collaborative environment that fosters career growth through com...
3 weeks ago
$170K - $202K *
Transform mission requirements into reliable RF communication systems for launch vehicles and spacecraft. Lead RF system trades, maintain link budgets, and ensure seamless integration across teams, dr...
5 days ago
Engineer I, Mechanical Engineering
$90K - $95K *
Drive the design and documentation of mechanical components for UHP gas purification systems, ensuring high-quality standards and collaboration with suppliers in a dynamic environment focused on innov...
Today
$111K - $150K *
Join a team that's advancing renewable energy solutions through expert power system analysis. Lead complex studies, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and drive innovative engineering practices...
1 week ago
$63K - $111K *
Elevate your career with impactful engineering projects, conducting constructability reviews, and designing temporary works. Collaborate with teams to ensure high-quality outcomes while prioritizing s...
3 weeks ago
$100K - $120K *
Engage as the civil technical lead on-site for a major power project, ensuring compliance with specifications, addressing technical queries, and managing civil documentation. Collaborate closely with...
2 weeks ago
$83K - $125K *
Lead quality assurance initiatives by developing and maintaining evaluation systems, collaborating with engineering teams, and ensuring compliance with standards to enhance product reliability and per...
1 week ago
$79K - $119K *
Elevate quality assurance through innovative engineering solutions and collaboration with production teams to ensure compliance with industry standards and continuous improvement in manufacturing proc...
Reposted 1 week ago
Staff Materials Engineer - Metallurgical Engineering
$130K - $200K *
Join us in tackling unique materials challenges for fusion power deployments, ensuring high performance in demanding environments. Lead R&D initiatives, collaborate cross-functionally, and advance mat...
3 weeks ago
Process Engineer (Onsite Support)
$85K - $120K *
Champion process optimization by analyzing and refining manufacturing systems to enhance efficiency, safety, and product quality. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot issues and dri...
2 weeks ago
Sr. Structural Analysis Engineer
$104K - $173K *
Unlock potential by joining a dynamic team to conduct structural analysis on advanced spacecraft, ensuring design integrity through rigorous testing and collaboration on complex engineering challenges...
2 weeks ago
Sr. Structural Analysis Engineer
$104K - $173K *
Lead the charge in spacecraft structural analysis. Collaborate with engineers to ensure design integrity through advanced simulations, testing, and documentation in a fast-paced environment focused on...
2 weeks ago
Sr Advanced R&D Engineer/Scientist
$146K - $183K *
Unlock potential by driving innovation in advanced materials through data analysis, machine learning, and collaboration with scientists and engineers to enhance aerospace safety and efficiency in a dy...
1 week ago
Sr Advanced R&D Engineer/Scientist
$146K - $183K *
Pioneer advanced research initiatives by developing innovative technologies and statistical models to enhance aerospace safety and efficiency. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transform data...
1 week ago
Staff Mechanical Engineer (22401.2)
$87K - $115K *
Unlock potential by driving innovative engineering solutions in a dynamic environment. Collaborate with diverse teams to execute projects, ensuring safety and quality standards while managing complex...
Today
Mechanical Engineer, PCBA Test Infrastructure, Robotics
$120K - $145K *
Empower innovation by leading the design and development of precision mechanical systems for PCBA test fixtures. Collaborate across teams to ensure reliable operation and adaptability of advanced robo...
2 days ago
Mechanical Engineer - Reactor Development
$85K - $105K *
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design and optimize advanced nuclear reactor components, ensuring safety and compliance throughout the development lifecycle. This role offers early-career...
Today
$105K - $165K *
Design and optimize environmental test systems for spacecraft components, ensuring rigorous qualification and acceptance testing. Collaborate with teams to validate hardware performance under space-li...
2 weeks ago
Research Scientist, Applied White-Box Methods
$150K - $250K *
Empower AI safety by leading research on white-box methods, publishing findings, and engaging with the community to improve algorithm alignment and risk management in real-world applications with a fo...
3 weeks ago
$135K - $176K *
Drive impactful infrastructure projects by overseeing on-site operations, ensuring compliance with contract specifications, and managing safety protocols while leading inspection teams and coordinatin...
1 week ago
$100K - $130K *
Lead construction projects by supervising engineering teams, ensuring compliance with standards, and managing schedules and budgets for successful project delivery. Engage with clients and stakeholder...
2 weeks ago
$130K - $160K *
Lead the charge in overseeing engineering projects, ensuring compliance and quality while managing schedules and budgets. Collaborate with clients and contractors to deliver successful outcomes in con...
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.