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.
Project Engineer - Industrial Automation
$140K *
Unlock your potential in a dynamic role focused on electrical design, PLC and HMI development, and project management. Collaborate with teams to deliver innovative automation solutions while ensuring...
1 week ago
Project Engineer - Industrial Automation
$140K *
Design innovative control systems and automation solutions, managing project scope, budget, and vendor relations. Collaborate with teams to ensure successful commissioning and provide ongoing technica...
1 week ago
Project Engineer - Industrial Automation
$140K *
Drive project success by managing electrical design, PLC/HMI development, and vendor coordination. Collaborate with teams to ensure quality and functionality while overseeing automation system commiss...
1 week ago
$95K - $115K *
Transform semiconductor manufacturing by leading equipment reliability initiatives, troubleshooting complex systems, and driving continuous improvement projects. Collaborate with teams to enhance oper...
2 weeks ago
$123K - $171K *
Empower your career by leading complex underground construction projects. Oversee teams, manage critical tasks, and ensure quality outcomes in water infrastructure. Join us to drive innovation and exc...
Today
Electrical Engineer, Quantum Energy Systems
$110K - $130K *
Unlock your potential by designing cutting-edge power electronics for innovative quantum energy storage, collaborating with cross-functional teams to create high-performance, safe, and reliable device...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$70K - $175K *
Unlock potential by joining a dynamic team to support the next-gen ICBM system. Collaborate on system engineering activities, ensuring alignment with program goals while driving innovation and technic...
4 days ago
Software Engineer, Embedded Systems
$150K - $180K *
Elevate your career by transforming embedded systems engineering through AI. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize low-level software, enhance model training, and drive innovative soluti...
1 week ago
Software Engineer, Embedded Systems
$150K - $180K *
Join our team to leverage your embedded systems expertise in enhancing AI models. You'll tackle complex engineering challenges, optimize systems, and drive initiatives that transform software methodol...
1 week ago
Systems Integration and Requirements Engineer
$110K - $130K *
Empower aviation systems by translating operational needs into measurable requirements. Collaborate on integration, testing, and operational readiness for ground-based air traffic management and airpo...
3 days ago
$157K - $185K *
Innovate your career with a role focused on designing and deploying machine learning solutions. Collaborate with stakeholders to enhance model performance and integrate advanced algorithms into produc...
6 days ago
$110K - $130K *
Transform the future of maritime technology by designing and integrating advanced electrical systems for sensing platforms, ensuring robust performance and collaboration across engineering teams...
2 weeks ago
$109K - $133K *
Lead the charge in managing and optimizing enterprise virtualized infrastructure, ensuring high availability and security. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance operational efficiency and...
2 weeks ago
$139K - $157K *
Lead the charge in ensuring quality assurance for aerospace manufacturing. Develop and implement quality programs, oversee inspections, and drive continuous improvement for high-reliability spacefligh...
2 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Innovate electrical designs for groundbreaking medical products. Lead cross-functional teams in developing and enhancing devices that improve women's health, ensuring impactful contributions from conc...
6 days ago
Engineering Technologist, Mechanical (ARL)
$68K - $102K *
Contribute to innovative mechanical design solutions by collaborating with R&D engineers, creating 3D models, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Engage in design reviews and support docu...
1 week ago
Senior Energetics Facilities Engineer
$150K - $200K *
Contribute to the design and construction of DoD/U.S. Navy energetics facilities. Leverage your extensive engineering expertise to oversee multidisciplinary teams, ensuring compliance with safety stan...
1 week ago
$120K - $145K *
Join a team that's redefining MEP design by developing impactful, user-driven features. Collaborate with customers, engineer innovative solutions, and take ownership of the entire development process...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Senior Project Engineer - Oxy-Combustion
$125K - $150K *
Empower the future of energy by leading the technical delivery of innovative oxy-combustion projects. Oversee design, procurement, and commissioning while ensuring performance, safety, and collaborati...
1 week ago
$100K - $120K *
Drive the development of next-gen radar systems, collaborating globally to innovate and validate cutting-edge automotive technology. Lead algorithm design and troubleshooting efforts, ensuring robust...
2 weeks ago
Electrical Engineer, Senior - Power Electronics
$100K - $120K *
Lead the design and development of power electronics systems, using expertise to manage complex projects from concept to production while mentoring junior engineers and collaborating with cross-functi...
4 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Engineer innovative electronic test systems for semiconductor devices. Collaborate across teams to design, validate, and ensure robust performance while driving quality and reliability in complex prod...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$120K - $140K *
Lead the charge in process engineering for complex EPC projects, providing strategic technical leadership and mentoring while ensuring successful delivery of large-scale power generation and renewable...
Today
$95K - $115K *
Unlock potential by serving as the technical authority in reliability engineering, driving design validation and influencing product release decisions through rigorous analysis and strategic planning...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $140K *
Drive quality assurance throughout aerospace product development and ensure effective risk management in collaboration with engineering teams. This role equips you with essential skills in verificatio...
3 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.