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.
$64K - $95K *
Transform manufacturing processes by providing technical support, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring compliance with production specifications. Collaborate with teams to document procedures and train...
1 week ago
$145K - $180K *
Engineer innovative electrical systems, driving hardware evolution and integration. Collaborate across teams to tackle complex challenges, ensuring high-quality solutions under tight deadlines while m...
2 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Optimize defense systems engineering by delivering technical guidance and interoperability oversight for international THAAD collaborations, ensuring seamless communications and design coherence acros...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Manufacturing Engineer - Electrical
$80K - $95K *
Elevate electrical installation efficiency by translating designs into actionable work instructions. Collaborate with engineering and production teams to ensure accurate cable routing and minimize rew...
2 weeks ago
Manufacturing Engineer - Electrical
$80K - $95K *
Unlock potential by translating electrical designs into actionable work instructions for autonomous vessels. Collaborate with engineering and production teams to ensure efficient installation and mini...
2 weeks ago
$108K - $135K *
Transform your engineering expertise by designing complex mechanical systems, collaborating cross-functionally to ensure timely, budget-conscious project delivery that meets industry standards and cli...
4 weeks ago
$74K - $130K *
Unlock potential by joining a dynamic Agile team to develop critical enterprise software applications, leveraging modern technologies in a fast-paced environment for mission success...
3 weeks ago
$74K - $130K *
Join a dynamic Agile team in developing critical mission applications for the C2 AOC community, utilizing your software engineering skills in a fast-paced environment focused on innovative enterprise...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Elevate innovation in medical devices as you lead projects from concept to commercialization, ensuring compliance while collaborating closely with surgeons and cross-functional teams to drive customer...
4 weeks ago
Data Engineer (AI Engineering)
$130K - $174K *
Transform the future of data engineering by building scalable data pipelines and AI solutions on Microsoft Azure. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance customer experiences and drive busi...
1 week ago
$100K - $120K *
Advance your career by managing complex projects, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring timely delivery while maintaining budget and quality standards. Your leadership will drive suc...
2 weeks ago
Staff Engineer, Flight Sciences, Design - Ranger (R6357)
$170K - $260K *
Unlock the potential of aircraft design by leveraging your expertise in aerodynamic modeling, CFD analysis, and performance optimization. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance aircraft ef...
Yesterday
$80K - $85K *
Drive your engineering career while learning the intricate design processes of commercial buildings. Collaborate with senior staff, engage in diverse projects, and explore specialization paths as part...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Structural Engineer | Associate/Associate Principal for Construction Engineering Practice
$153K - $190K *
Champion the growth of our Construction Engineering Practice, leveraging structural engineering expertise to support contractors and manage complex projects while fostering collaborative relationships...
3 weeks ago
Engineer Process (Tool Design)
$79K - $119K *
Transform manufacturing processes by designing innovative tooling solutions. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance production efficiency and drive continuous improvement initiatives in a...
3 days ago
$88K - $105K *
Drive the successful delivery of mineral processing projects by coordinating schedules, budgets, and documentation across engineering disciplines, ensuring projects stay on track from concept to const...
1 week ago
$74K - $130K *
Join a team that's developing mission-critical software in a fast-paced Agile environment. Collaborate to create, test, and enhance enterprise applications, utilizing Java and modern technologies to d...
3 weeks ago
Staff Mechanical Engineer, Advanced Product Development
$120K - $145K *
Take ownership of mechanical design for next-gen energy storage systems, focusing on thermal, fluid, and structural subsystems. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive innovative solutions an...
Reposted today
Software Engineer: LabVIEW Development Engineer
$120K - $145K *
Innovate and enhance existing technologies by developing cutting-edge LabVIEW applications, automating calibration routines, and optimizing software for improved performance and user experience...
3 weeks ago
Project Engineer (Manufacturing)
$80K - $95K *
Partner with us to drive successful project execution in a dynamic manufacturing environment. Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure timely delivery of key projects while maintaining quality and com...
2 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Shape the future of mechanical engineering projects by leveraging your design expertise and project management skills to deliver innovative solutions across various industries, while collaborating wit...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $135K *
Take ownership of engineering projects from kick-off to handover, leading design efforts for automated storage solutions while collaborating with clients and internal teams to ensure timely and budget...
3 weeks ago
$90K - $130K *
Advance your career by providing innovative structural design solutions for industrial projects. Collaborate with a dynamic engineering team to deliver impactful results across North America, enhancin...
1 month ago
$95K - $115K *
Transform your career by supporting project management through scheduling, vendor coordination, and quality control. Play a key role in ensuring project success while enhancing communication and docum...
2 days ago
Structural Engineer/Associate (Infrastructure Risk) (Ph.D.)
$117K - $145K *
Accelerate progress at a dynamic firm by leveraging advanced engineering skills to assess and mitigate infrastructure risks in the energy sector while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and co...
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.