What does a Research Engineer do?
Research engineers plan, design, develop, and build innovative equipment and technologies using a research-driven process. They perform investigations, testing, modeling, verifications, comparative analysis, and other forms of research to make educated recommendations. They support and guide organizations or clients in making informed decisions based on this data, which is then used to develop action plans for designing and implementing systems and equipment that supports key objectives. They also play an active role in strategic planning by providing ongoing research-based input and advice.
Research engineers typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, or another technical field, although an advanced degree is often preferred. They should have hands-on experience with a wide range of research tools and programs, including verification and testing programs.
- Establish and manage the operating and capital equipment budgets for the team.
- Identify, evaluate, and manage vendors to support early-mid phase device prototyping.
- Perform data analysis to identify trends and opportunities of improvement.
- Coordinate product return, on hold, and product destruction operations.
- Enhance the product through algorithm development and code implementation.
- Actively lead in team engagement action planning and implementation.
- Prepare and contribute to technical documents, product manuals, and protocols.
- Design and oversee manufacturing of test equipment and apparatus.
- Assist in process development, product optimization, including manufacturing and QC procedures.
- Help organize and participate in field trials as required.
- Lead scientific evaluation and participate in diligence and negotiation activities.
- Assist with the evaluation and recommendation of new equipment and technology.
- Audit review programs and make corrections based on findings.
- Serve as technical project lead (principal investigator) for integration process development programs.
- Work closely with internal product teams to understand and address their requirements.
- Review work products and documents to ensure technical rigor and quality.
- Bachelor's Degree in engineering or science.
- Fluent with Python and other programming languages.
- Basic understanding of writing protocols.
- Solid algorithm design skills.
- Strong leadership, problem solving, and critical thinking skills.
How much does a Research Engineer make near United States?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$145,996
/ yrResearch Engineer Career Path
Learn how to become a Research Engineer, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Research Engineer Insights
Huawei Technologies“Research is extremely applied and the best ideas suffer from production level coding and technical debt.”
Telit Wireless Solutions“3. Salary increments are not great and money related issues don't get easily addressed.”
Aztech“Do not have any development methodologies and project management strategies to develop a good product.”
University of Leeds“The work and life balance was very much similar to like working at an angel startup.”
Clarapath“It is a great opportunity to learn and apply what you know in many areas and levels.”
Nokia“Strong Brand: Nokia's reputable brand can enhance your resume and open doors for future career opportunities.”
3M“Employee morale is terrible currently and I don't see it improving any time soon.”
Allure Labs “Not many places been so open to training me after I expressed interest to try something new.”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Research Engineer
- Engineering Consultant
- Development Engineer
- Optical Engineer
- Research Assistant