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Associate Research Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Technical Sales Associate

Jenison, MI ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Vibration Research is looking for a Technical Sales Associate to help with our customer focused ... Grow into sales support for our application engineers on weekly calls to existing and future ...

Associate Process Engineer (12-Month Temporary Assignment with Potential for Full-Time Hire) Mason ... Work cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, R&D, and Supplier partners

Associate Process Engineer (12-Month Temporary Assignment with Potential for Full-Time Hire) Mason ... Work cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, R&D, and Supplier partners

Associate Process Engineer (12-Month Temporary Assignment with Potential for Full-Time Hire) Mason ... Work cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, R&D, and Supplier partners

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Research Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$36.2K

$72K

$115.1K

How much do associate research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate research engineer in Michigan is $72,025.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,100.00 and $82,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by an associate research engineer when working on collaborative projects?

As an Associate Research Engineer, one of the main challenges in collaborative projects is effectively communicating technical findings and progress with multidisciplinary teams, which may include scientists, engineers, and project managers. Balancing multiple priorities, such as meeting project deadlines while ensuring experiments are thoroughly conducted and documented, can also be demanding. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing project goals or research directions requires flexibility and proactive problem-solving. Building strong relationships and maintaining clear communication channels are essential for overcoming these challenges and contributing successfully to team objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate research engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Research Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, data analysis, and experimental design, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with technical tools such as MATLAB, Python, CAD software, and lab instrumentation is typically required, along with experience in documentation and reporting systems. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help set candidates apart. These competencies are essential for driving innovation, ensuring accurate research outcomes, and collaborating efficiently within research and development environments.

What does an associate research engineer do?

An Associate Research Engineer supports research and development projects by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and assisting with the design and testing of prototypes or systems. They often collaborate with senior engineers and scientists to develop new technologies or improve existing ones. Responsibilities may also include preparing technical reports, maintaining laboratory equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. This role is typically an entry-level engineering position that provides hands-on experience in a research-oriented environment.

What is the difference between Associate Research Engineer vs Research Engineer?

AspectAssociate Research EngineerResearch Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's, often with more experience or specialization
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting research projects, labs, or R&D teamsMore independent, leading or executing research initiatives
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech, manufacturing, and research institutionsUsed across similar industries, often with more responsibility

The main difference between an Associate Research Engineer and a Research Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. Associate Research Engineers typically support research projects and are in early career stages, while Research Engineers often lead or independently execute research tasks. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are prevalent in tech and industrial sectors.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Engineer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Research Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Research Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Associate Research Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Research Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Research Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Associate Research Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Associate Research Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Research Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,025 per year, or $34.6 per hour.

Associate Research Scientist II - Consumer Product Research

Amway

Ada, MI โ€ข On-site

$66K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Associate Research Scientist II - Consumer Product Research
Posting Start Date: 7/6/26
Posting Location: Ada (Grand Rapids), MI
Requisition ID: 42922
Job title: Associate Sensory & Consumer Research Scientist - Product Experiences & Insights
Department / Division: Product Experiences & Insights / Research and Development
Salary Ranges: $66,800/yr - $82,517/yr plus bonus
Location: Ada, MI (Onsite)
What we're looking for:
Are you passionate about the science behind why consumers love certain foods and drinks? As our new Sensory and Consumer Research Scientist, you will be the scientific voice behind our product's taste and consumer experience within our Nutrition portfolio. You will play a pivotal role in ensuring our health and wellness products are not only effective but also enjoyable.
This is a dynamic role with two key focus areas. First, you'll lead our sensory science program, guiding product developers to perfect the taste, aroma, and texture of new formulations. Second, you'll manage consumer research studies with external partners, generating the scientific data needed to support the claims that resonate with our customers. You will be the bridge between the lab, our expert tasting panel, and the voice of the consumer.
A typical day may include:
  • Collaborating with cross-functional product development teams on new prototypes for our nutrition line.
  • Designing and overseeing a sensory test with our dedicated 8-person descriptive panel.
  • Developing a study plan including screening criteria and questionnaire design
  • Analyzing data from a recent consumer study to validate a "great tasting" claim.
  • Presenting findings and recommendations to project stakeholders.

This is a full-time, on-site role at our Ada, Michigan campus. Travel is minimal, estimated at less than 10%.
Required Qualifications:
  • A minimum of 1 years of professional experience in sensory science, consumer science, or product research within the food, beverage, or nutrition industry.
  • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Sensory Science, Psychology, or a related scientific field.
  • Demonstrated experience designing and executing sensory testing methodologies (e.g., descriptive analysis, discriminatory tests like triangle tests).
  • Experience in managing all phases of a consumer research project, from study design to data analysis and reporting.

Skills to Be Successful in the Role:
  • Data-Driven Insights: You are skilled in statistical analysis and can transform complex data into clear, actionable recommendations.
  • Strategic Collaboration: You thrive on working with cross-functional teams, including R&D, Marketing, and Clinical Research, to achieve project goals.
  • Strong Communicator: You can clearly articulate technical concepts to both scientific and non-scientific audiences.
  • Project Management: You excel at managing multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks, and delivering results on time.
  • Mentorship & Training: You have an aptitude for training others, whether it's helping a formulator understand taste profiles or guiding a sensory panel.

Amway does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need Amway immigration sponsorship (e.g., H-1B, STEM OPT, TN, etc.) now or in the future.
What's Special About this Team:
You'll be part of a highly collaborative R&D organization within Amway, where consumer-driven insight and scientific rigor come together to shape products used by millions globally. The Product Experience & Insights team leads Consumer Product Research and plays a critical role across Nutrition (including food and beverage), Beauty, Home Care, and Wellness Devices turning consumer insights into best-in-class, science-backed products that drive both innovation and growth.