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Entrylevel Research And Development Engineer Jobs

The Pennsylvania State University

Typical duties of a Research & Development Engineer include: * Supporting the development of R&D programs to support critical DOD assets * Providing subject matter expertise in the area of ...

The Pennsylvania State University

S. citizen to apply.) Typical duties of a Research & Development Engineer include: * Design and development of additively manufactured components * Operation of advanced manufacturing equipment

Atego

Software Engineer

Zeeland, MI · On-site

This position will interface with Project Engineering, Hardware Engineering, Software Test, Program Management, and Research & Development. The following qualifications are required The following ...

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Entrylevel Research And Development Engineer information

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$20K

$96.6K

$151K

How much do entrylevel research and development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for entrylevel research and development engineer in the United States is $96,571.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $117,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level research and development engineers earn significantly less, some senior engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, software, or biomedical engineering with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, often including bonuses and stock options. Such high compensation typically requires many years of experience, advanced degrees, and working in high-paying industries or companies.

What is the average salary of an R&D engineer in the US?

The average salary for an entry-level research and development engineer in the US typically ranges from $65,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on the industry, location, and educational background. R&D engineers with skills in engineering design, prototyping, and data analysis may earn higher starting salaries, especially in technology and manufacturing sectors.

What is the difference between Entrylevel Research And Development Engineer vs Entry-level Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntrylevel Research And Development EngineerEntry-level Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some roles may prefer internships or project experienceBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related discipline; internships are common
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, product development teams, innovation centersDesign offices, manufacturing plants, testing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, R&D departments, manufacturing firmsMechanical design firms, automotive, aerospace, manufacturing industries

While both roles require a bachelor's degree and involve engineering work, the Entrylevel Research And Development Engineer focuses on innovation, product development, and research activities, often in lab settings. In contrast, the Entry-level Mechanical Engineer typically works on designing, testing, and improving mechanical systems in manufacturing or industrial environments. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and career interests.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced research and development engineers, especially in specialized fields such as aerospace, semiconductor, or software engineering, can earn $300,000 or more annually. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and often leadership roles or working in high-demand industries with competitive compensation packages.

How to get into R&D engineering?

To become an entry-level R&D engineering, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in research methods, and familiarity with tools like CAD or MATLAB can improve prospects. Strong problem-solving abilities and knowledge of industry-specific technologies are also important for entry into R&D roles.
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Entrylevel Research And Development Engineer jobs near you

RF Research and Development Engineer

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$76K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 100 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

174th of 538 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
The Antennas, Computational Electromagnetics, and Propagation Department of the Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University is seeking an entry level Research and Development Engineer to participate in the solving of complex RF Propagation projects. The primary research focus is RF Propagation from ELF to millimeter wave.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
  • Use accepted methods and techniques, design, develop, and implement of RF propagation models including environmental effects such as space weather and meteorology. Also, you will use RF propagation models to analyze the effectiveness of engineering products, systems, and subsystems
  • Develop novel techniques in RF propagation including new mathematical derivations of both electromagnetic phenomena and relevant environmental factors such as radio space weather and meteorology
  • Conduct RF propagation experiments/tests in the laboratory/field to test, prove, or modify theoretical propositions on basis of research findings and experiences of others researching in related technical areas; includes taking measurements and recording observations, collecting, compiling, and processing data
  • Document data/findings in technical reports, documents, or oral/written presentations
  • Create opportunities to improve RF propagation modeling and analysis capability either extending existing capability, developing new methods, or diversifying into new applications
  • Provide innovative problem-solving approaches to enhance RF propagation modeling and analysis capabilities; use peer network to expand technical capabilities and identify new research opportunities
  • Learn broad strategic objectives and applications of RF propagation modeling analysis, develop relationships with major sponsors of external research, and develop grant funding
  • Research and identify follow-on research projects and/or initiate new project concepts; contribute to technical proposals; and make presentations to customers.

This position can be filled at multiple levels, depending on your education and work experience. Minimumally require a Bachelors' degree in an Engineering or Science related discipline. Additional education and/or experience required for higher level positions. A Masters' degree or PHD in Mathematics or Electrical Engineering is preferred.
Required skills include:
  • Experience in RF Propagation mathematical methods, implementation of new and established methods, and application of methods to solve specific problems
  • Demonstrated ability to document research findings in whitepapers and technical reports
  • Proven experience implementing scientific or technical solutions independently with guidance from mentors
  • Demonstrated understanding and experience with end to end design, implementation, and testing of technical and scientific solutions
  • Effective at presenting in front of large groups of senior level professionals
  • Opportunity to develop and write white papers
  • Any software/experiences that ARE necessary to be offered the position/must be held by candidate: fluent in multiple various scientific programming languages from Matlab, Python, C++, and FORTRAN; proven ability to read and understand complex applied mathematics and numerical implementations

Preferred skills include:
  • Current active security clearance
  • Ability to learn new programming languages and tools, mathematical techniques and numerical implementations

Position can allow for hybrid on-site/work from home in the State College, PA area.
ARL at Penn State is an integral part of one of the leading research universities in the nation and serves as a University center of excellence in defense science, systems, and technologies with a focus in naval missions and related areas.
You will be subject to a government security investigation. An active security clearance is highly desired. You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply. Employment with ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.
**The proposed salary range may be impacted by geographic differential.**
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is:
$76,700.00 - $129,500.00
Salary Structure - additional information on Penn State's job and salary structure.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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