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 - $171K *
Unlock potential by designing and troubleshooting complex electrical systems. Leverage your expertise to lead projects, generate test reports, and innovate solutions that enhance technology performanc...
2 days ago
$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
Principal Research & Development Engineer/Scientist - Electrochemistry
$177K - $222K *
Drive innovative R&D initiatives in electrochemistry, leading projects from concept to scale-up, while collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance technologies and processes in metal refining...
3 weeks ago
$75K - $90K *
Join a dynamic team to enhance manufacturing processes, drive continuous improvement, and support new product introductions. You’ll collaborate cross-functionally to solve challenges, optimize efficie...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Senior I&C Engineer (Instrumentation and Controls)
$140K - $185K *
Transform engineering projects by leading teams in design and execution, ensuring adherence to budgets and timelines while specializing in electrical and instrumentation systems for a variety of indus...
3 weeks ago
Principal Engineer - Hydraulic Modeling Specialist
$110K - $130K *
Drive impactful civil engineering projects, collaborating with public agencies to enhance community infrastructure. Lead design and construction efforts while ensuring compliance and fostering strong...
2 weeks ago
$140K - $165K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of AI infrastructure. As a Production Engineer II, you'll tackle real-world challenges in a dynamic environment, ensuring the reliability of critical systems whil...
2 days ago
$140K - $165K *
Unlock potential by driving reliability in a multi-billion dollar AI cloud infrastructure. Collaborate with senior engineers to enhance production systems, automate processes, and ensure optimal perfo...
2 days ago
$80K - $95K *
Advance your career by enhancing manufacturing processes and equipment. Collaborate with design teams and suppliers to innovate and improve production methods for cutting-edge cooling solutions in a d...
2 weeks ago
Structural Analyst & Test Engineer
$160K - $180K *
Join a dynamic team to optimize structural analysis and testing for innovative aircraft systems, ensuring compliance with safety and performance standards while collaborating across engineering discip...
1 week ago
$75K - $95K *
Join a team that's dedicated to optimizing manufacturing processes, ensuring quality, and driving operational excellence. You'll collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement improvements that...
Reposted 2 days ago
$100K - $120K *
Join a team that's dedicated to developing innovative software solutions. As a full-stack developer, you'll design, build, and maintain applications while collaborating with diverse teams to deliver i...
2 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Support the design and integrity of cutting-edge routing systems hardware. Collaborate with a dynamic team to manage complex PCB designs from concept to production, ensuring high performance and relia...
2 weeks ago
$125K - $200K *
Innovate by designing and building cutting-edge electronic systems, applying scientific methods to solve engineering challenges, and mentoring fellow engineers while owning system-level architecture...
Today
Senior Mechanical Engineer - Process Systems
$119K - $185K *
Join our team to execute innovative Process Systems designs, leading complex projects and mentoring junior engineers. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality engineering soluti...
2 days ago
$104K - $116K *
Join a team that's redefining the gaseous energy sector. As a Process Engineer, you'll collaborate on innovative projects, optimize designs, and mentor junior staff while ensuring safety and efficienc...
1 week ago
Principal Network Engineer - Private 5G & Communications
$187K - $205K *
Partner with us to enhance network infrastructure by providing senior-level support for Private 5G and communications systems, ensuring secure and efficient delivery of voice, data, and video services...
Reposted 2 days ago
$75K - $90K *
Shape the future of geotechnical engineering by overseeing laboratory testing, analyzing results, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Mentor junior staff while delivering high-quality rep...
1 week ago
$150K - $220K *
Tackle groundbreaking research in high-performance computing algorithms as you collaborate with cross-functional teams to create efficient computational models capable of powering state-of-the-art gra...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Lead the charge in embedded systems engineering for consumer electronics. Manage project timelines, guide a multi-disciplinary team, and ensure delivery of high-quality products in a fast-paced enviro...
3 weeks ago
$160K - $200K *
Unlock potential by leading technical direction in autonomy systems. Drive ownership of advanced perception, prediction, and planning components with cross-stack influence, facilitating innovation and...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$160K - $190K *
Shape the future of autonomy by leading technical direction in Perception, Prediction, and Planning. As the senior-most contributor, you'll influence cross-stack design and ensure functional architect...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$166K - $200K *
Champion the evolution of autonomous systems by driving innovative solutions in Perception, Prediction, and Planning. Influence the entire autonomy stack while collaborating with cross-functional team...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$75K - $95K *
Unlock potential by developing and optimizing manufacturing processes, ensuring product quality and operational excellence through cross-functional collaboration and continuous improvement initiatives...
Reposted 2 days ago
HPC DevOps & Software Integration Engineer
$110K - $130K *
Drive innovation in high-performance computing by delivering secure software deployments, automating infrastructure, and resolving complex technical challenges. Collaborate with teams to enhance relia...
1 week 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.