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Electrical Research Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

FANUC America Corporation

Research Engineer

Union City, CA · On-site

$123K - $206K/yr

You will conduct research and submit patent applications while ensuring flawless execution of ... Master Degree in Electrical/Mechanical, Computer Engineering, Robotics or related field. * 3 years ...

FANUC America

Research Engineer

Union City, CA

$123K - $206K/yr

You will conduct research and submit patent applications while ensuring flawless execution of ... Master Degree in Electrical/Mechanical, Computer Engineering, Robotics or related field. * 3 years ...

Real-Time Innovations

Research Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site +1

D. degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering or related field. Appropriate research expertise includes electromechanical, intelligent or autonomous systems, distributed systems ...

Subsense

Experimental Research Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

MS or PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering, Neuroscience, Applied Physics, or a related field. * 0-5 years of industry, academic, or research laboratory ...

Subsense

Experimental Research Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

MS or PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering, Neuroscience, Applied Physics, or a related field. * 0-5 years of industry, academic, or research laboratory ...

Inflection AI

Research Engineer, Voice

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$225K - $325K/yr

Research, develop, and optimize neural models for voice and audio-including text-to-speech ... Have a bachelor's degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Linguistics, or ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsElectrical Research Engineer JobsElectrical Research Engineer Jobs in California

Electrical Research Engineer information

See California salary details

$83.9K

$109.2K

$127.3K

How much do electrical research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical research engineer in California is $109,183.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,200.00 and $119,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an electrical research engineer?

To thrive as an Electrical Research Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, circuit design, and data analysis, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with simulation tools (such as MATLAB, SPICE), laboratory instrumentation, and industry standards or certifications (like IEEE membership) is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for innovating and collaborating within research teams. These skills and qualifications are essential for advancing new technologies, ensuring project success, and driving innovation in the field.

What types of projects do electrical research engineers typically work on, and how do they collaborate with other teams?

Electrical Research Engineers often work on projects involving the development and testing of new electrical devices, systems, or technologies, such as advanced circuit designs, renewable energy integration, or automation solutions. Collaboration is a key part of the role; engineers frequently work with multidisciplinary teams—including software developers, mechanical engineers, and project managers—to ensure successful project outcomes. Regular team meetings, joint problem-solving sessions, and cross-functional documentation are typical, making strong communication and teamwork skills essential.

What is the difference between Electrical Research Engineer vs Electrical Design Engineer?

AspectElectrical Research EngineerElectrical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering; often involved in research projectsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering; focuses on designing electrical systems
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academic institutionsDesign offices, manufacturing facilities, construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, universitiesElectrical engineering firms, manufacturing companies, construction firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in electrical engineeringUnderstanding design roles in electrical engineering

Electrical Research Engineers primarily focus on developing new electrical technologies and conducting experiments in research settings. In contrast, Electrical Design Engineers concentrate on creating practical electrical systems and components for real-world applications. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in their work environment and objectives.

What does an electrical research engineer do?

An Electrical Research Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing new electrical systems, components, or devices. They often work in laboratories or research facilities, conducting experiments and analyzing data to solve complex engineering problems. Their work supports advancements in fields like telecommunications, power systems, electronics, and renewable energy. Electrical Research Engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to innovate and improve electrical technologies, ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability.
What cities in California are hiring for Electrical Research Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Electrical Research Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Electrical Research Engineer jobs in CA? For Electrical Research Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Electrical Research Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electrical Research Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $109,183 per year, or $52.5 per hour.

Research Engineer

FANUC America Corporation

Union City, CA • On-site

$123K - $206K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Who You Are
As our Research Engineer you will work at FANUC's Advanced Research Laboratory in Union City, CA. You will conduct research and submit patent applications while ensuring flawless execution of research projects.
How It's Done
  • Identify new technology applicable to FANUC products with short and long term vision
  • Attending annual research and/or technology conferences
  • Present research findings and recommendations for presentation to FANUC Headquarters in Japan

What You Need
  • Master Degree in Electrical/Mechanical, Computer Engineering, Robotics or related field.
  • 3 years experience in software and/or mechanical design development.
  • Strong understanding of drive control and dynamic characteristics of machine tools and industrial machinery, and Classical and Digital control theory
  • Experience with Python and MATLAB

What Would Be Even Better
  • PhD in Engineering
  • Familiarity with robot motion control and robotic intelligence devices such as vision, force sensors, tactile sensors and Artificial Intelligence

It's Your Move
At FANUC America, we are driven by a deep respect for our people and a commitment to building a workplace dedicated to integrity and excellence. We believe that great careers are built through opportunity, growth, and collaboration-and we're excited to invite talented individuals like you to explore what's possible with us.
Joining FANUC means becoming part of a team that values your unique perspective and encourages continuous learning and collaboration. We foster a culture where respect and innovation go hand in hand, and where your contributions help shape the future of automation and robotics.
If you're ready to take the next step in your career, we invite you to apply today. We look forward to learning more about you!
We offer market competitive pay and benefits programs, as well as opportunities for advancement, knowledge and skill development, and recognition of individual achievements. In addition, we offer the following benefits to our employees:
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Program
  • Life Insurance
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Plans
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Wellness Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Benefit Dollars
  • Generous Holiday & Vacation Program
  • Sponsorship will not be provided for this position
  • Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans

More information related to benefits offered by FANUC America can be found at the hyperlink attached here.
FANUC America is seeking a qualified applicant for an Research Engineer role. The pay range for this position is $123,302 - $206,586 per year. The pay range listed is based on both salary and other compensation, including bonuses and profit sharing, that an employee may be paid during their employment with FANUC America.
A compensation package offered to a successful applicant will ultimately be determined by consideration of a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, an applicant's geographic location, educational attainment, and level of experience.
Sponsorship will not be provided for this position
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans

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