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Lead R&D Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KMM

Research & Development Engineer

Lincoln, NE · On-site

Responsibilities of R & D Engineer can include: * Support the evaluation and testing of prototypes and product under development through the use of 2D and 3D CAD. * Create test work instructions or ...

Owens Corning

Engineer R & D

Granville, OH · On-site

PURPOSE OF THE JOB The Lab Automation and Testing Systems Lead is a hands-on technical lead ... JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Living Safely • Actively participates in R&A monthly safety meetings ...

Owens Corning

Engineer R & D

Granville, OH · On-site

PURPOSE OF THE JOB The Lab Automation and Testing Systems Lead is a hands-on technical lead ... JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Living Safely Actively participates in R&A monthly safety meetings, quarterly ...

LG Electronics

R&D Engineer Associate

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$63K/yr

In addition, various projects are being carried out in R & D, so management ability is also required. The R&D Engineer should be able to share technical advice and advise the project team members to ...

Microporous Products

R AND D ENGINEER

Danville, VA · On-site

Build strong working relationships across R&D, Operations, Engineering, and Quality departments. * Promote effective communication and teamwork during laboratory testing and production trials.

Owens Corning

Engineer R & D

Granville, OH · On-site

Lead raw material dual sourcing/supply security qualifications using already established ... Bachelor of Science in Engineering or Science field or Associates Degree with 5+ years of relevant ...

Owens Corning

Engineer R & D

Granville, OH · On-site

Lead raw material dual sourcing/supply security qualifications using already established ... Bachelor of Science in Engineering or Science field or Associates Degree with 5+ years of relevant ...

Corteva

R&D Engineer

Johnston, IA · On-site

Platform Staffing Group (an STA Group Company) is looking for an R& D Engineer to assist our client in Smart stick V5: Software enhancement, bug fixes, design and implement the groundwork for V6. All ...

R.D. Olson

Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Project Engineer - R.D. Olson Construction | SoCal Sedona, AZ & Southern California | Commercial GC ... Build the relationships and reps you'll need to lead * Explore how to use AI and automation to do ...

Paligen Technologies, Inc.

Sr R&D Engineer

Garland, TX · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

D Engineer Job Family: Engineering Company: Paligen Aerospace and Defense, LLC Location: Garland ... Lead and support R amp;D projects from concept through commercialization. * Develop and refine ...

Midmark

R+D Quality Engineer III

Versailles, OH

$66K - $86K/yr

JOB SUMMARY: The R + D Quality Engineer III leads and enforces product development quality ... Ability to lead the design of complex systems and identify new technological opportunities ...

R D Olson Construction

Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Project Engineer - R.D. Olson Construction | SoCal Sedona, AZ & Southern California | Commercial GC ... Build the relationships and reps you'll need to lead * Explore how to use AI and automation to do ...

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Lead R D Engineer information

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$42.5K

$123.8K

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How much do lead r&d engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead r&d engineer in the United States is $123,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,500.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Lead R&D Engineer do?

A Lead R&D Engineer is responsible for overseeing research and development projects, leading teams of engineers and scientists to innovate and improve products or technologies. They coordinate project activities, set technical direction, and ensure that new solutions align with company goals. Their role often involves managing budgets, timelines, and collaborating with other departments to bring ideas from concept to implementation. Lead R&D Engineers also stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies to maintain the organization’s competitive edge.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead R&D Engineer?

To thrive as a Lead R&D Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, advanced problem-solving skills, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, project management systems, and possibly certifications like PMP or Six Sigma are often valuable. Leadership, creativity, and effective communication are essential soft skills to guide teams and foster innovation. These competencies ensure successful project delivery, drive technological advancement, and support cross-functional collaboration within an organization.

How does a Lead R&D Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the product development process?

A Lead R&D Engineer plays a central role in coordinating with cross-functional teams such as design, manufacturing, quality assurance, and marketing throughout the product development cycle. They facilitate regular meetings to align project goals, share technical insights, and resolve challenges quickly. By acting as a technical liaison, they ensure that engineering solutions meet both performance requirements and market needs, while also managing timelines and resource allocation. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and streamlines the transition from concept to production.

What is the difference between Lead R&D Engineer vs R&D Engineer?

AspectLead R&D EngineerR&D Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees research projects, leads teams, develops strategiesConducts research, designs experiments, supports project tasks
Required SkillsAdvanced technical expertise, leadership, project managementStrong technical skills, research experience, problem-solving
Work EnvironmentTeam leadership, cross-department collaborationIndividual research, experimental work
Common CertificationsRelevant engineering or research certifications, leadership trainingEngineering degrees, research certifications

The main difference between a Lead R&D Engineer and an R&D Engineer lies in leadership and project scope. Lead R&D Engineers typically oversee research teams and strategic planning, while R&D Engineers focus on executing research tasks. Both roles require strong technical backgrounds, but the Lead position emphasizes leadership and coordination skills.

Is lead R&D engineer stressful as a career?

A lead R&D engineer role can be stressful due to project deadlines, technical challenges, and management responsibilities. The position often requires problem-solving skills, long hours, and balancing innovation with practical constraints, which can contribute to work-related stress.
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The top searched job categories for Lead R&D Engineer jobs are:

Lead R D Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead R&D Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,784 per year, or $59.5 per hour.

Research & Development Engineer

Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Usa

Lincoln, NE • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp., U.S.A seeks a full-time Research and Development Engineer for our Consumer Products manufacturing facility in Lincoln, NE. Apply now at KawasakiCareers.com

Please note: Sponsorship for employment visa status for these positions is unavailable. Applicants requiring sponsorship for employment visa status now or in the future will not be considered.

Responsibilities of R & D Engineer can include:

  • Support the evaluation and testing of prototypes and product under development through the use of 2D and 3D CAD.
  • Create test work instructions or installation manuals. Interface with suppliers for production support, bringing in new equipment, prototyping, new product development and testing.
  • Analyze, compile, evaluate, and present data in an organized fashion.
  • Set up and perform destructive and nondestructive tests on materials, parts or product. Develop and/or prepares schematics, designs, tooling, specifications, and parts lists.
  • Set up and operates a variety of testing equipment, improvising hook-up and equipment modifications as necessary to test, adjust, align, calibrate and modify circuitry, components, systems or subsystems.
  • Assemble, modify, and inspect modular tooling and fixturing.
  • Work with other Kawasaki subsidiaries for approvals and project management.
  • Provide technical support to other departments. Ensure conformance to federal and state product regulation.

Qualifications for R & D Engineer:

  • Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Experience with 2D and 3D CAD as well as creating assembly manuals and installation manuals preferred
  • Must be proficient in reading and writing, following established safety procedures and work instructions
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills required.
  • Quality orientation and high attention to detail. Possess good knowledge of engineering practices.
  • Must be proficient in reading, writing and comprehending the English language.
  • Follow established safety procedures and work instructions. 

Perks for R & D Engineer:

  • Great work culture with career growth potential
  • Excellent benefits package including medical, vision, dental, 401(k), and many more
  • Paid holidays, educational reimbursement, and flexible spending account available
  • Employee discount for purchase of company products
  • Company fitness center and wellness program available
  • Educational and relocation reimbursements available

 

Mission:

Kawasaki, working as one for the good of the planet. We are the Kawasaki Group, a global technology leader with diverse integrated strengths. We create new value for a better environment and a brighter future for generations to come.

We value each of our employees and support efforts to use their talents and abilities in full. We respect diversity and strive to build a workplace in which all employees can live up to their full potential.

Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp., U.S.A. is an Equal Opportunity Employer who complies with all Federal, State and Local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment.

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