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.
Electrical Engineering Lab Technician
$80K - $100K *
Join us to support the hands-on development of satellite avionics hardware by assembling, testing, and debugging prototypes, ensuring robust engineering practices and a smooth hardware qualification c...
3 weeks ago
Software Engineer, ML Infrastructure
$166K - $220K *
Join us to build cutting-edge ML infrastructure for autonomous perception systems, enhancing training and data platforms across defense technology. Collaborate with engineering teams to innovate and o...
Yesterday
Engineer I, Simulation Framework (R6203)
$79K - $110K *
Elevate your career by developing cutting-edge simulation software that bridges modeling and autonomy systems. Collaborate with experienced engineers to create robust solutions in a dynamic, hands-on...
1 week ago
Structural Analyst / Structural Engineer
$100K - $120K *
Drive your career with a pivotal role in structural analysis for aerospace systems. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to tackle complex challenges, ensuring the integrity of advanced propulsion...
2 weeks ago
$145K - $200K *
Shape the future of geotechnical engineering by leading projects, mentoring teams, and fostering client relationships. Drive technical excellence while tackling complex challenges and contributing to...
1 week ago
R&D System Electrical Engineer - W88 Environmental Measurement Unit, Onsite
$102K - $199K *
Innovate in a pivotal role as the System Electrical Lead, driving electrical engineering efforts for national security. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop and test advanced systems, e...
5 days ago
Project Engineer, Manufacturing
$87K - $133K *
Drive improvements in manufacturing processes, ensuring efficiency and safety. Oversee technical support, process optimization, and cost reduction initiatives. Collaborate on new product implementatio...
Reposted today
$79K - $105K *
Join our team to lead complex electrical design projects in industrial and biotech sectors. Collaborate with engineers and architects to develop innovative solutions, ensuring efficient power distribu...
Reposted 6 days ago
Lead Electrical Engineer 1 - Energy & Industrial Group
$118K - $180K *
Join a team that's dedicated to advancing electrical engineering solutions across diverse projects, from power plant retrofits to renewable energy installations. Collaborate with experts to tackle com...
2 weeks ago
Lead Electrical Engineer 1 - Energy & Industrial Group
$118K - $180K *
Shape the future of electrical engineering by leading innovative projects in power generation and industrial facilities. Collaborate with a dynamic team to design, troubleshoot, and optimize electrica...
2 weeks ago
Lead Electrical Engineer 1 - Energy & Industrial Group
$118K - $180K *
Unlock potential by leading electrical engineering projects in power generation and industrial facilities. Collaborate with teams to design, troubleshoot, and optimize electrical systems while ensurin...
2 weeks ago
Lead Electrical Engineer 1 - Energy & Industrial Group
$118K - $180K *
Elevate your career by leading electrical engineering projects in power generation and industrial facilities. Collaborate with teams to design, troubleshoot, and optimize electrical systems while ensu...
2 weeks ago
$78K - $117K *
Optimize electrical PCB design and packaging for global actuation products, ensuring cost-efficiency while maintaining quality. Collaborate with manufacturing and engineering teams to validate, test...
4 weeks ago
Geotechnical Engineer, Pearl River NY
$110K - $130K *
Champion geotechnical excellence by leading project reviews, developing designs, and conducting safety inspections for civil projects. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance and...
4 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Lead the charge in designing and commissioning test stands for aircraft components, ensuring compliance with industry standards while effectively managing customer relationships and enhancing operatio...
Reposted 1 week ago
$105K - $120K *
Lead and manage moderately complex new product introduction projects, ensuring alignment between customer needs and manufacturing readiness through disciplined planning and execution. Collaborate with...
Yesterday
Quality Engineer Specialist - Semiconductor / Electronics
$124K - $151K *
Unlock potential by integrating quality principles into the design and development of innovative electronic and semiconductor products. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure robust quality...
2 days ago
Senior Mechanical Engineer - Power Generation Systems
$110K - $130K *
Tackle complex mechanical challenges by designing and building advanced power-generation subsystems. Collaborate on system integration and rapid prototyping in a fast-paced environment, ensuring desig...
2 weeks ago
$74K - $130K *
Lead the development of AI applications that transform complex data into actionable insights. Collaborate across disciplines to create innovative solutions in computer vision, robotics, and geospatial...
1 week ago
Quality Engineering Specialist
$80K - $95K *
Elevate product quality by leading investigations, driving root cause analysis, and ensuring compliance with ISO 9001 standards. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance manufacturing proces...
2 weeks ago
$115K - $180K *
Join a dynamic team to design innovative power supplies for various applications. Collaborate on engineering challenges, develop systems, and enhance customer satisfaction through meaningful contribut...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$115K - $150K *
Transform thermal management systems for advanced vehicle platforms, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design, analyze, and validate solutions th...
1 week ago
$130K *
Join a dynamic team to lead New Product Development and engineering initiatives. Drive technical decisions, coordinate cross-functional efforts, and ensure compliance with customer and certification s...
Today
$100K - $160K *
Join a team that's dedicated to designing innovative mechanical systems for building projects. Leverage your expertise to ensure code compliance and efficiency while mentoring junior staff and collabo...
5 days ago
$100K - $160K *
Champion the design and coordination of mechanical systems for building projects, ensuring compliance with codes and standards while mentoring junior staff and delivering exceptional client service th...
5 days 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.