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.
$90K - $115K *
Accelerate operational excellence by driving process improvements and modernizing equipment in a dynamic CNC machining environment. Collaborate with teams to enhance quality, reduce costs, and support...
Yesterday
Research Software Engineer- Simulation Algorithm/ Geometry Processing
$100K - $140K *
Unlock potential by designing and developing geometry processing algorithms for engineering applications, bridging advanced models with practical engineering workflows using machine learning and 2D/3D...
1 week ago
$80K - $95K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of engineering projects. Engage in geotechnical investigations, lead analysis efforts, and drive technical excellence while mentoring junior staff. Your expertise...
1 month ago
$95K - $115K *
Develop innovative telematics and sensing products, leading designs from concept to production while ensuring regulatory compliance and supporting hardware architecture with cross-functional teams...
4 weeks ago
Research Engineer Graduate (AI Infra Compute) - 2027 Start (PhD)
$153K - $300K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of AI infrastructure by developing innovative technologies, collaborating with academia, and optimizing advanced systems to tackle complex challenges in the cloud...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Drive innovative electrical engineering solutions for diverse projects, enhancing military facilities' design, construction, and sustainability. Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure compliance, eff...
Reposted 1 week ago
$80K - $95K *
Lead critical engineering projects at a major hydropower facility, providing mentorship and technical expertise. Engage in design, maintenance, and operational activities to ensure efficient power gen...
1 week ago
Senior R&D Engineer, Space PV Product Design & Prototyping
$110K - $130K *
Innovate in the design and prototyping of lightweight photovoltaic modules for space applications. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to create, test, and iterate on cutting-edge solar technology...
2 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Engineer innovative solutions by providing technical expertise and mentorship for complex mechanical engineering projects at a major hydropower facility, ensuring compliance with standards and enhanci...
1 week ago
$102K - $135K *
Pioneer innovative mechanical solutions through design, analysis, and testing. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to fabricate and integrate critical systems, enhancing product efficiency and eff...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Shape the future of military operations by leading advanced analysis and modeling efforts. Collaborate with elite teams to enhance strategic direction and technical roadmaps, while engaging deeply in...
Today
Propulsion Development Engineer
$95K - $135K *
Design and develop propulsion systems while collaborating with diverse teams. Lead projects, perform analyses, and conduct testing to create high-performance spacecraft in a dynamic, innovative enviro...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$85K - $95K *
Shape quality strategies for manufacturing by collaborating with teams to tackle production issues, enhance processes, and ensure compliance with customer and industry standards in a fast-paced enviro...
Reposted 2 days ago
$85K - $95K *
Unlock potential by ensuring top-tier product quality through hands-on support, real-time problem-solving, and collaboration with production teams to meet AS9100 and customer specifications for consis...
Reposted 2 days ago
Principal Process Engineer - Etch
$85K - $146K *
Elevate semiconductor manufacturing processes by driving continuous improvement, executing experiments, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance performance, yield, and reliability in...
2 days ago
Lead Electrical Engineer (AEC Industry)
$95K - $115K *
Play a key role in leading engineering teams to develop innovative electrical designs while managing project objectives, communicating with clients, and ensuring compliance with codes and standards...
Reposted yesterday
Lead Electrical Engineer (AEC Industry)
$110K - $130K *
Join a dynamic team to lead electrical projects, driving innovative designs and technical deliverables while mentoring fellow engineers. Engage with clients and deliver efficient solutions for a varie...
Reposted yesterday
Lead Electrical Engineer (AEC Industry)
$95K - $115K *
Engineer comprehensive electrical systems for diverse projects, leading teams to develop technical deliverables while ensuring client satisfaction and project efficiency in a dynamic, hybrid environme...
Reposted yesterday
$146K - $192K *
Drive project success by providing engineering support and technical evaluations for electric power generation projects. Collaborate with clients on design reviews, economic analysis, and risk assessm...
1 week ago
$200K - $280K *
Lead a team to design and implement benchmarks that enhance AI model performance in biology. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure quality and timely delivery while mentoring scientists an...
5 days ago
$200K - $280K *
Accelerate progress at the forefront of AI in biology by leading a team to design benchmarks and enhance model performance. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive innovation and ensure quali...
5 days ago
Senior Staff Electrical Engineer
$211K - $264K *
Champion high-reliability digital electronics design, leading complex projects from architecture to production. Drive technical excellence in aerospace and military applications while mentoring cross...
Today
Electrical Engineer, Data Center Electrical Design Engineering
$130K - $155K *
Elevate the power systems design in cutting-edge data centers by leading engineering efforts, ensuring stability and safety of high-power platforms through advanced troubleshooting and innovative elec...
4 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Explore the impact of your designs as you develop electrical solutions for diverse energy projects, ensuring quality and efficiency from concept through to commissioning. Join a team that tackles chal...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Engineer innovative water treatment solutions by designing and developing efficient processes. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure project success while maintaining compliance with indus...
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.