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Manufacturing Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Manufacturing Research information

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How much do manufacturing research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 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, and why are they important?

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's the highest paying manufacturing job?

In manufacturing, senior engineering roles such as Manufacturing Engineering Managers or Plant Directors tend to be the highest paying positions, often earning six-figure salaries. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership responsibilities within large facilities or corporations.

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
What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Research jobs are:
Infographic showing various Manufacturing Research job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,905 per year, or $39.4 per hour.
Additive Manufacturing Scientist

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 56 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you passionate about leading teams inventing new technologies to track materials synthesis to tackle unique problems?
Are you motivated to chart a course for additive manufacturing research that addresses our nation's most pressing challenges?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
We are seeking an Additive Manufacturing Scientist to work closely with APL's team of experts to the shape and implement the vision and strategy for APL's AM research. Our team conducts groundbreaking AM research ranging from multiscale modeling and simulation, to performing the underlying science to enable qualification and certification, to development of new sensing and visualization processes to monitor and detect attributes of the AM process and visualize in 3D to enable next generation designs for space, air, land and sea-based applications.
As our government sponsors continue to present exciting and urgent national challenges, you will drive idea generation and solution development via research vision, leveraging APL's entire portfolio of innovative research. The team needs a research visionary and champion who can drive toward collaborative solutions for cross-cutting research challenges, partnering with a multidisciplinary team. At APL, we strive to foster a collaborative environment with world-class expertise that achieves groundbreaking impact. Our APL team values integrity and innovative ideas that will ensure our nation's preeminence in the 21st century.
As an Additive Manufacturing Scientist you will...
  • Perform pioneering materials and process characterization research driven by mission needs for qualified hardware leveraging state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment.
  • Integrate with the APL's team to increase the impact of an already successful additive manufacturing programs centered on materials discovery, in-situ sensing, multiscale modeling, and qualification science.
  • Contribute to the design and fabrication of operational additively manufactured prototypes which have global impact.
  • Work with APL program managers to identify critical national challenges that can be solved with additive manufacturing.
  • Push the boundaries of manufacturing science to unlock new manufacturing processes which will have a lasting impact on our nation.
  • Present technical work internally and externally. You will communicate daily with project teams and leadership to support programmatic needs.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Possess a M.S Degree in Mechanical and or Electrical Engineering, Materials characterization, data science, or a related field.
  • Have 5+ years of demonstrated experience related to manufacturing research, focusing on additive manufacturing.
  • Understand the unique capabilities of additive processing, including complex material properties, stemming from process defects, microstructure and thermodynamic solidification.
  • Experience in generating and interpreting data utilized to enable qualifying AM produced hardware.
  • Have demonstrated experience leading a team to achieve impactful results.
  • Are an excellent communicator, in written and oral formats, and for a variety of audience types including high-level government sponsors.
  • Demonstrated history of authoring proposals and high impact publications.
  • Are willing and able to perform work in a laboratory setting and travel for field testing, sponsor visits, conference attendance, and presentations.
  • Are able to obtain a Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Possess a P.h.D Degree in Mechanical and or Electrical Engineering, Materials characterization, data science, or a related field
  • Demonstrate experience fielding additively manufactured components using science-based qualification.
  • Have experience developing process models by manipulating key parameters such as power, speed and hatch spacing.
  • Have the capability to reconstruct 3D data including in-situ and post manufacturing data into a 3D format for data processing and visualization.
  • Have experience with machine learning and have demonstrated the ability to make statistical correlations with complex data sets.
  • Have experience with novel in-situ monitoring of additive processes with the ability to customize sensors to improve signal to noise or registration capability.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$290,000 Annually