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Manufacturing Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our team conducts groundbreaking AM research ranging from multiscale modeling and simulation, to ... As an Additive Manufacturing Scientist you will... * Perform pioneering materials and process ...

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Preferred Qualifications * 1-2 years of experience in a laboratory, chemical manufacturing, research, industrial, or technical environment. * Chemistry background strongly preferred. * Experience ...

Staff Manufacturing Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$85K - $109K/yr

Work closely with R&D to identify design weaknesses, process gaps, and recurring field/manufacturing issues. * Support extended factory and contract manufacturer operations by providing technical ...

Manufacturing Operator

Monroeville, NJ

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

At least 2 years of experience in GMP pharmaceutical manufacturing, research and development (R&D), or pharmaceutical equipment manufacturing. * 2+ years of experience with batch record review, QA ...

Staff Manufacturing Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$85K - $109K/yr

Work closely with R&D to identify design weaknesses, process gaps, and recurring field/manufacturing issues. * Support extended factory and contract manufacturer operations by providing technical ...

Own the MFG R&D annual plans, and budgets; align priorities with business goals and customer needs across current and longterm horizons. * Build replicable and scalable systems and processes to ...

Own the MFG R&D annual plans, and budgets; align priorities with business goals and customer needs across current and longterm horizons. * Build replicable and scalable systems and processes to ...

Own the MFG R&D annual plans, and budgets; align priorities with business goals and customer needs across current and long-term horizons. * Build replicable and scalable systems and processes to ...

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Manufacturing Research information

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$39

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How much do manufacturing research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for manufacturing research in the United States is $39.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.01 and $48.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in manufacturing research?

A strong background in engineering, materials science, or a related field—often supported by a relevant degree or advanced research experience—is essential for success in Manufacturing Research. Proficiency with data analysis software, CAD tools, and familiarity with laboratory or manufacturing equipment is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help researchers collaborate and drive innovation. These competencies are vital for developing efficient manufacturing processes, advancing technology, and ensuring product quality.

What are some common challenges faced in a manufacturing research role, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Manufacturing Research often encounter challenges such as integrating new technologies into existing production processes, balancing cost constraints with innovation, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Addressing these challenges typically involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams—including engineering, quality assurance, and production—to pilot new methods, analyze results, and optimize workflows. Staying updated on industry advancements and maintaining strong communication skills are key to overcoming obstacles and driving continuous improvement within the manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Research vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectManufacturing ResearchManufacturing Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping new manufacturing processes and technologiesDesigning, implementing, and improving manufacturing systems
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departmentsProduction floors, engineering offices
Required CredentialsBachelor’s or higher in engineering, materials science, or related fieldsBachelor’s or higher in mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing engineering

Manufacturing Research focuses on innovating and developing new manufacturing methods, often within R&D settings. Manufacturing Engineers apply these methods in production environments to optimize processes and ensure efficient manufacturing operations. Both roles require engineering backgrounds but differ in their primary objectives and work settings.

What is manufacturing research?

Manufacturing research involves the study and development of new methods, processes, technologies, and materials to improve manufacturing efficiency, quality, and sustainability. Researchers in this field analyze current manufacturing systems, identify areas for improvement, and test innovative solutions. Their work supports advancements in automation, cost reduction, energy efficiency, and product quality across various industries.
More about Manufacturing Research jobs
Infographic showing various Manufacturing Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,905 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

NIST PREP Research Associate in Applied Artificial Intelligence for Manufacturing

Southeastern Universities Research Association

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). The PREP program provides valuable research and laboratory experience, as well as financial support, to researchers at various stages of their academic and professional careers. Individuals in this position will perform technical work that advances scientific research and measurement science across multiple disciplines.
Research Title: Research Associate - Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI) Scientist for Manufacturing
The work will entail: The Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI) Scientist for Manufacturing will serve as a technical expert in the design, development, evaluation, and deployment of trustworthy AI technologies to advance U.S. manufacturing competitiveness, productivity, and quality. The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research initiatives and support the transition of innovative AI-enabled manufacturing solutions from the laboratory to operational manufacturing environments.
Key responsibilities
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Technical Development and Implementation:
  • Design, develop, and deploy applied AI solutions focused on addressing key manufacturing challenges, including process optimization, quality assurance, predictive maintenance, digital engineering, and production planning.
  • Integrate AI technologies into manufacturing systems, workflows, and operational processes to improve performance, efficiency, and decision-making.

Research and Technical Analysis
  • Conduct advanced research and technical analyses to develop and evaluate trustworthy AI approaches for manufacturing applications.
  • Contribute to measurement science research supporting the evaluation, validation, and assurance of AI-enabled manufacturing systems.

Technical Collaboration and Coordination
  • Collaborate with researchers and technical experts across NIST, academia, industry, and external partner organizations to advance AI-enabled manufacturing research.
  • Support the development of technical guidance, best practices, and standards-related activities related to AI in manufacturing.

Technology Transition and Stakeholder Engagement
  • Support the transition of research outcomes into scalable, operational solutions for U.S. manufacturers and manufacturing technology stakeholders.
  • Contribute to pilot implementations, technology demonstrations, and industry engagement activities that promote the adoption of AI-enabled manufacturing solutions.

Qualifications:
U.S. Citizen Preferred
  • Experience conducting research and measurement science in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, or related fields to address challenges in manufacturing, industrial systems, or other critical and emerging technology areas.
  • Experience developing, evaluating, or implementing AI-related methodologies, frameworks, standards, benchmarks, or pilot projects.
  • Demonstrated ability to transition research outcomes into practical applications that deliver measurable impact to industry or government stakeholders.
  • Knowledge of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF), trustworthy AI principles, and related AI guidance documents.
  • Strong analytical, technical, and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary research environments.

Privacy Act StatementAuthority: 15 U.S.C. § 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C. § 272(b) and (c)
Purpose: The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) hosts the Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) which is designed to provide valuable laboratory experience and financial assistance to undergraduates, post-bachelor's degree holders, graduate students, master's degree holders, postdocs, and faculty.
PREP is a 5-year cooperative agreement between NIST laboratories and participating PREP Universities to establish a collaborative research relationship between NIST and U.S. institutions of higher education in the following disciplines including (but may not be limited to) biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electronics, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron science, physical science, physics, and statistics. This collection of information is needed to facilitate administrative functions of the PREP Program.
Routine Uses: NIST will use the information collected to perform the requisite reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is also subject to all the published routine uses as identified in the Privacy Act System of Records Notices: NIST-1: NIST Associates.
Disclosure: Furnishing this information is voluntary. When you submit the form, you are indicating your voluntary consent for NIST to use of the information you submit for the purpose stated.
SURA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that no one should be discriminated against because of their differences, such as age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, religion, or sexual orientation. All employment decisions shall be made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law.
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