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.
Structural Systems Engineer II
$114K - $139K *
Advance structural integrity by conducting designs and analytical evaluations of flight systems. Collaborate across disciplines to support spacecraft and robotic projects, ensuring robust mechanical p...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Champion advancements in geotechnical engineering, leading client relationships, project management, and technical oversight for diverse initiatives in power generation and related fields...
3 weeks ago
$70K - $99K *
Unlock potential by planning and executing complex laboratory tests, analyzing data, and troubleshooting technical issues. Collaborate with customers and teams to ensure quality and compliance in a fa...
2 weeks ago
$70K - $110K *
Partner with us to design and develop innovative embedded software for vehicle functions using C/C++. Collaborate in a dynamic team to deliver quality solutions while ensuring effective integration an...
4 weeks ago
$100K - $120K *
Drive impactful projects by managing civil and geotechnical engineering teams, building client relationships, and overseeing multi-disciplinary designs for diverse industries. Contribute your expertis...
3 weeks ago
Quality Engineer Electro-Mechanical Assembly
$100K - $162K *
Join a dynamic team to ensure electro-mechanical build quality in production. You'll tackle assembly issues, lead investigations, and collaborate with engineering to enhance manufacturability and perf...
2 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Transform the future of energy by leading civil engineering for electric transmission projects. Shape team growth while ensuring successful planning, execution, and stakeholder collaboration in a comp...
Reposted 2 days ago
$108K - $130K *
Lead the charge in delivering innovative geotechnical engineering solutions across diverse sectors. Manage multi-disciplinary projects while fostering client relationships and mentoring talent within...
3 weeks ago
$100K - $120K *
Join a team that's redefining geotechnical engineering for diverse sectors. Engage in project management, client relations, and technical guidance while leading innovative projects within the Power Ge...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Join a dynamic team as a leader in geotechnical engineering, driving innovative solutions in multi-discipline projects for energy and industrial sectors. Make a meaningful impact while collaborating w...
3 weeks ago
$100K - $120K *
Transform multi-discipline projects by leveraging your geotechnical expertise. Lead client relationships and staff management while ensuring project delivery in the Power Generation sector. Collaborat...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Lead and manage geotechnical engineering projects while fostering client relationships and ensuring quality delivery of services across Energy and Manufacturing sectors. Inspire a collaborative team e...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Optimize multi-discipline engineering projects, develop client relationships, and lead teams to deliver civil and geotechnical solutions for diverse industries, ensuring high standards of quality, saf...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Join us to lead innovative geotechnical engineering projects, fostering client relationships and team collaboration while managing diverse teams and multi-discipline projects for clients across Energy...
3 weeks ago
$108K - $130K *
Lead the charge in delivering innovative geotechnical engineering solutions for diverse projects, while managing client relationships and guiding a team of professionals to achieve project success and...
3 weeks ago
$108K - $130K *
Lead geotechnical projects for diverse Energy and Manufacturing clients, fostering relationships, managing teams, and ensuring project delivery on scope, budget, and quality. Drive business developmen...
3 weeks ago
Assistant Research Professor, Nuclear Engineering
$80K - $95K *
Lead the charge in cutting-edge electrochemical device research, focusing on nanotechnology for biosensing applications. Collaborate in a dynamic, multidisciplinary team to design and optimize innovat...
2 weeks ago
Electrical Engineer/Scientist (Ph.D.)
$140K - $154K *
Elevate your career by solving complex electrical engineering challenges. Collaborate with a dynamic team on diverse projects in power systems, renewable energy, and consumer products, while shaping y...
6 days ago
Quality Engineer - Spacecraft Manufacturing
$90K - $173K *
Optimize supplier performance and quality in a dynamic aerospace environment. Lead critical supplier assessments from qualification to delivery, ensuring compliance with high engineering standards and...
3 weeks ago
$104K - $173K *
Unlock potential by leading quality engineering initiatives to enhance product quality and operational performance. Collaborate across teams to identify risks, optimize processes, and implement data-d...
2 days ago
$104K - $173K *
Advance your career as a Quality Engineer, leading cross-functional initiatives to enhance product quality and operational performance through data-driven methodologies and Lean Six Sigma principles...
2 days ago
$80K - $95K *
Transform the future of marine technology by driving the design and integration of electrical systems for autonomous surface vessels. Collaborate with engineering teams to innovate and optimize soluti...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$150K - $180K *
Join a team that's pioneering the future of energy by designing and optimizing high-power electrical systems integral to fusion power generation. You will lead efforts to deliver reliable, clean elect...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Elevate civil engineering projects by collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, leading design processes from concept to construction, and ensuring successful project delivery through technical exce...
1 week ago
$95K - $115K *
Empower your career as you collaborate on diverse civil engineering projects, guiding design from concept to construction. Join a dynamic team focused on innovative, community-first solutions across m...
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.