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Mechanical Research Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Research Engineer

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$104 - $118/hr

Research Engineer Full Time Engineer WAYNESBORO, VA, US 25 days ago Requisition ID: 1418 Salary ... This role is ideal for someone with strong technical training in mechanical engineering, materials ...

Research Engineer

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$104K - $118K/yr

Research Engineer Location: Waynesboro, VA Come and be a part of a best-in-class global R&D team ... This role is ideal for someone with strong technical training in mechanical engineering, materials ...

We are a community of researchers, engineers, and operations people dedicated to creating ... Formal verification: use mechanical reasoning tools such as theorem provers and model checkers to ...

We are a community of researchers, engineers, and operations people dedicated to creating ... Formal verification: use mechanical reasoning tools such as theorem provers and model checkers to ...

Hydraulics Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$80K - $124K/yr

... mechanics, and sediment transport Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to translate technical findings for different audiences Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds ...

Hydraulics Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$80K - $124K/yr

Genex Systems has an immediate opening for a Hydraulics Research Engineer to support the Federal ... mechanics, and sediment transport • Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ...

Genex Systems has an immediate opening for a Hydraulics Research Engineer to support the Federal ... Strong working knowledge of open-channel hydraulics, river mechanics, and sediment transport

Hydraulics Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$80K - $124K/yr

... mechanics, and sediment transport Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to translate technical findings for different audiences Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds ...

S. in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a related discipline, or B.S. with equivalent experience in research or industry in a relevant technical field in lieu ...

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Showing results 1-20

Mechanical Research Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$45.1K

$102K

$165.1K

How much do mechanical research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical research engineer in Virginia is $101,996.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,800.00 and $125,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a mechanical research engineer do?

A Mechanical Research Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing new mechanical devices and systems. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and use advanced software to improve product performance and efficiency. Their work often involves collaborating with other engineers and scientists to innovate and solve complex engineering problems. Mechanical Research Engineers play a crucial role in advancing technology in fields like automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical research engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mechanical Research Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, analytical problem-solving, and typically a bachelor’s or master’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like ANSYS, and experience with lab equipment or research-specific certifications are commonly required. Strong communication, creativity, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for sharing findings and driving innovation. These skills enable engineers to develop effective solutions, collaborate on research projects, and advance technological progress in their field.

What are some common challenges mechanical research engineers face when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

Mechanical Research Engineers moving from academia to industry often encounter challenges such as adapting to faster project timelines, prioritizing commercially viable solutions over purely theoretical work, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. In industry, there is a stronger emphasis on meeting client requirements, cost-effectiveness, and product manufacturability, which may differ from academic research priorities. Building effective communication and project management skills is essential to succeed in these dynamic work environments.

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

AspectMechanical Research EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping new theories, materials, and prototypes through researchCreating detailed designs and specifications for manufacturing
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D centers, academic settingsDesign offices, manufacturing plants, CAD environments
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, CAD proficiency

Mechanical Research Engineers focus on exploring new concepts and materials, often working in labs or research settings. Mechanical Design Engineers concentrate on designing and developing products for manufacturing. Both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, but their daily tasks and environments differ significantly.

Infographic showing various Mechanical Research Engineer job openings in Virginia 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 $101,996 per year, or $49 per hour.

Research Engineer

The Lycra Company LLC

Waynesboro, VA • On-site

$104 - $118/hr

Other

Re-posted 12 hours ago


Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Research Engineer

Full Time Engineer WAYNESBORO, VA, US

25 days ago Requisition ID: 1418

Salary Range: $104,000.00 To $118,000.00 Annually

Role: Research Engineer

Location: Waynesboro, VA

Come and be a part of a best-in-class global R&D team creating new fiber innovation solutions for our Global Textile Apparel and Personal Care businesses.

The LYCRA Company is a premier supplier of differentiated fiber products from a global manufacturing base with assets in the USA, Europe, Mexico, Brazil, China and Singapore.

Our Apparel business works with leading consumer brands, retailers and fabric mills all over the world to leverage our innovative offerings including LYCRA® fiber, COOLMAX® fiber, THERMOLITE® fiber, SUPPLEX® fiber and TACTEL® fiber. The LYCRA Company is a leading supplier in the global apparel markets including ready-to-wear, intimate apparel, swimwear, activewear, outdoor and career apparel.

We have built a leading position in the Apparel and Personal Care industries over the years via a continuous stream of value-adding fiber, fabric, and garment innovations enabled and supported by a network of strategic partners across the entire value chain. This contributed to making the LYCRA® brand a unique asset that still powers today one of the most iconic and valuable corporate franchises in the Apparel and Personal Care industry. It is all reflected in our corporate vision: “enhancing life through innovative garment solutions.”

We are seeking an Applications Research Engineer focused on translating fiber and fabric technologies into application-ready solutions through mechanical testing, product performance evaluation, prototype development, and commercialization support. As part of an industry-leading team of R&D experts, you will help identify, propose, and execute innovation projects that provide competitive advantage and have significant value creation potential. This role is ideal for someone with strong technical training in mechanical engineering, materials science, textile engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field, combined with an entrepreneurial spirit, disciplined problem solving, personal accountability, economic decision making, and critical thinking skills. The successful candidate will be a self-starter and advocate for New Product Innovations as a key strategy for the success of the business.

Role: Applications Research Engineer specializing in extrusion processes, mechanical testing, prototype development, customer/application evaluation, and commercialization support.

We offer competitive salary commensurate with experience.

Location: Waynesboro VA, USA can be found at the intersection of the scenic Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Appalachian Trail. A short drive from Charlottesville, VA home of University of Virginia. Waynesboro’s small-town charm and close proximity to many historic sites, scenic parks, vibrant arts, food and culture locations, it one place you can easily fall in love with.

Reporting to the R&DDirector,the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

Job Responsibilities & Summary:
  • Identify, propose, plan, and execute innovation projects that provide competitive advantage and have significant potential to create value. Lead and support technology scale-up, product validation, and commercialization activities with a focus on fiber and material performance, mechanical property testing, prototype development, application trials, and translation of customer needs into technical requirements.
  • Assist with resolution of production, product performance, application testing, and quality issues.
  • Build strong collaborative relationships with researchers, technicians, and manufacturing and business/commercial leaders.
  • Maintain compliance and excellence in EH&S (Environmental Health & Safety) processes.
  • Contribute to an R&D environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and accountability within a collaborative global R&D network.
  • Stay abreast of the competitive landscape and external polymer fiber production and textile world to gather insight and inspiration.
Qualifications (Required)
  • BS in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Science, or Material Science
  • At least 5 years of experience as a Chemical Engineer, Polymer Scientist, Spinning Process Engineer, Mechanical Engineer
  • Demonstrated excellence in ethics, compliance, and EH&S performance
  • Results oriented, motivated, and effective contributor in a collaborative, diverse team environment
  • Creative, entrepreneurial spirit that is driven by a passion for innovation and focused by business goals
  • Effective problem solver with strong observation and critical thinking skills and statistical skills
  • Strong verbal and written communications skills
  • Flexibility to travel globally as required, estimated 20-25% annually.
Qualifications (Preferred)
  • MS in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Science, or Material Science
  • At least 3years of experience as Chemical Engineer, Polymer Scientist, Spinning Process Engineer, Mechanical Engineer
  • Experience in research and development of fibers.
  • Demonstrated project leadership skills that produce outstanding results
  • Strong background in statistical design of experiments and analysis of data from lab/semiworks experiments and plant operations.
  • We offer a competitive salary, including an excellent benefits package.

The LYCRA Company innovates and produces fiber and technology solutions for the apparel and personal care industries. Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, The LYCRA Company is recognized worldwide for its innovative products, technical expertise, and unmatched marketing support. The LYCRA Company owns leading consumer and trade brands: LYCRA®, LYCRA HyFit®, LYCRA® T400®, COOLMAX®, THERMOLITE®, ELASPAN®, SUPPLEX®, and TACTEL®. The LYCRA Company’s legacy stretches back to 1958 with the invention of the original spandex yarn, LYCRA® fiber. Today, The LYCRA Company focuses on adding value to its customers’ products by developing unique innovations designed to meet the consumer’s need for comfort and lasting performance. For more information, visit www.thelycracompany.com.

As a principled-based organization, The LYCRA Company is committed to a fair,respectful,andequitableworkplace that embraces diversity and reflects the communitiesin which itoperates. This helps foster anenvironment where employees feel valued,fulfilled, andable to achieve their full potential. Furthermore, webelieve that a diverseworkforceoperating in such an environment is central to our success, as we need notonlythe rightskill sets but also a wide breadth of perspectives and ideas, diverse lifeexperiences, &aseamless collaboration between employees to achieve our companypurpose of“enhancing life throughinnovative garment solutions.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

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