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.
Senior Staff Engineer - Generative AI Engineer
$130K - $155K *
Champion innovative technical solutions by guiding engineering teams, conducting design reviews, and enhancing system performance through microservices and containerization. Drive reliability and mana...
1 week ago
Engineer, Reliability Engineering
$75K - $103K *
Help us enhance semiconductor reliability by developing and validating stress hardware. Collaborate with engineers and technicians to deliver robust solutions across diverse technologies, ensuring qua...
2 weeks ago
Engineer, Reliability Engineering
$75K - $103K *
Drive continuous improvement in Reliability Operations, integrating advanced technologies while ensuring on-time product qualification in a collaborative and innovative environment focused on efficien...
3 weeks ago
Advanced Manufacturing Thermal Engineer
$155K - $224K *
Lead the design and deployment of advanced thermal processing equipment, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure efficient manufacturing integration and process stability in high-volume en...
Yesterday
$93K - $144K *
Join a team that's redefining structural engineering by designing innovative building systems. Collaborate with architects and engineers to create sustainable solutions from concept to construction, e...
1 week ago
$180K - $228K *
Drive innovation by owning system-level electrical designs for advanced semiconductor equipment. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance reliability and performance, shaping the future of e...
Reposted 1 week ago
Principal Process Engineer – Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing
$95K - $245K *
Unlock potential by providing technical leadership in advanced semiconductor manufacturing. Lead complex initiatives, mentor engineers, and drive process standardization to enhance yield and efficienc...
2 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Help us shape the future by using your geotechnical engineering expertise to manage diverse projects across infrastructure and environmental domains. Expand your skills while contributing to essential...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Project Engineer - Energy Civil/Structural
$100K - $130K *
Champion energy infrastructure by leading civil engineering design projects, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and mentoring junior engineers to deliver quality utility and renewable energy...
4 weeks ago
Project Engineer - Energy Civil/Structural
$100K - $130K *
Join us to lead civil engineering design for innovative utility and renewable energy projects. Collaborate with teams to ensure high-quality infrastructure development while mentoring the next generat...
4 weeks ago
Principal Connectivity Engineer
$255K - $357K *
Lead the architectural vision for advanced connectivity systems in FPV drones, integrating RF, embedded, and electrical design to create robust, field-ready solutions. Collaborate across teams to tran...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$75K - $113K *
Optimize production processes and drive efficiency improvements in a hands-on role. Collaborate with teams to troubleshoot issues, implement automation, and enhance quality in a dynamic manufacturing...
2 weeks ago
$100K - $108K *
Join a team that's dedicated to ensuring product quality through comprehensive analysis and continuous improvement. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to maintain standards and implement effectiv...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Lead Research Engineer - Aerosol Systems, Exposure Platforms & Instrumentation Integration
$95K - $115K *
Lead the charge in developing advanced aerosol delivery systems, ensuring precise and reproducible experimental workflows. Collaborate in a multidisciplinary environment to optimize system performance...
1 week ago
SENIOR STAFF ENGINEER, PRODUCT RELIABILITY (ENERGY TECHNOLOGY)
$132K - $212K *
Advance your career by driving engineering excellence in power electronics for Clean Energy products while ensuring top-tier reliability and performance standards through innovative testing and analys...
3 weeks ago
$103K - $135K *
Grow your career with a role focused on developing and optimizing manufacturing processes. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance quality control and implement Lean initiatives, while gain...
2 weeks ago
Process Engineer 2 - Oil & Gas
$69K - $99K *
Develop process designs and calculations for diverse projects, collaborating with a multi-disciplinary team. Engage in safety reviews and support construction efforts while maintaining effective commu...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $110K *
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to lead structural design projects, ensuring high-quality documentation and innovative solutions throughout all project phases. Your expertise will shape susta...
1 week ago
$80K - $95K *
Drive innovation as you solve complex RF/Microwave challenges, collaborating across teams to enhance product development and integrate key technologies in a high-stakes defense environment...
3 weeks ago
Mechanical Product development Engineer
$80K - $95K *
Develop innovative solutions by supporting R&D projects, collaborating with teams on medical product design, including CAD and FEA, while ensuring compliance with risk assessments and validations for...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Join a team that's shaping innovative designs across diverse projects. Collaborate with architects and managers to lead structural design, ensuring quality and sustainability at every stage. Your expe...
1 week ago
$110K - $130K *
Transform product development by leading electrical design and systems engineering efforts. Collaborate across disciplines to ensure cohesive integration and compliance, while driving innovation throu...
1 week ago
$85K - $100K *
Elevate your engineering career by leading manufacturing projects, implementing Lean improvements, and mentoring a talented team. Collaborate on CAPEX initiatives and drive solutions through effective...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Design and implement tests for advanced robotic hands, ensuring reliability and performance. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop automated testing solutions that enhance production effi...
Today
$90K - $110K *
Innovate within the metals industry by designing and optimizing copper processing systems. Lead projects from conception through commissioning, ensuring performance and reliability as you help shape c...
Reposted 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.