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Preclinical Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in biology, neuroscience, biomedical engineering, animal science, or a related field. * Minimum 1 year of experience in preclinical research support, study coordination, or project ...

Bachelor's degree in biology, neuroscience, biomedical engineering, animal science, or a related field. * Minimum 1 year of experience in preclinical research support, study coordination, or project ...

Scientist I

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$35.97 - $47.92/hr

... years of hands-on preclinical R&D experience preferred, preferably within a biotech or ... Scientific, Clinical Research and Engineering. Our team offers well over 200 years of combined ...

Description You will be working with a team of research scientists and hardware engineers ... preclinical settings. In this role, the candidate will be expected to independently design and ...

Description You will be working with a team of research scientists and hardware engineers ... preclinical settings. In this role, the candidate will be expected to independently design and ...

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Preclinical Research Engineer information

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$37K

$106K

$142.5K

How much do preclinical research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for preclinical research engineer in the United States is $106,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Preclinical Research Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Preclinical Research Engineer, you need a solid background in biomedical engineering, biology, or a related field, along with experience in experimental design and data analysis. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, imaging systems, Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards, and relevant software such as MATLAB or statistical tools is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective collaboration skills help set exceptional candidates apart. These competencies are vital for ensuring high-quality research outcomes, regulatory compliance, and successful cross-disciplinary teamwork in the preclinical development process.

What are preclinical research engineers?

Preclinical research engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test medical devices, pharmaceuticals, or other health-related products in the preclinical stage before they are used in human trials. They work with scientists and medical experts to ensure products meet safety and regulatory standards by conducting laboratory research, animal studies, and data analysis. Their work is crucial in identifying potential issues early and ensuring that only the safest and most effective products move forward to clinical trials.

What are some common challenges faced by Preclinical Research Engineers when transitioning new devices from concept to animal studies?

Preclinical Research Engineers often encounter challenges related to regulatory compliance, experimental design, and cross-functional collaboration when moving new devices from the conceptual phase to animal testing. Ensuring that prototypes meet safety and ethical standards while generating reliable, reproducible data can be complex and requires meticulous planning. Additionally, close coordination with biologists, veterinarians, and regulatory experts is essential to address issues such as animal welfare, data integrity, and timely project milestones. Being proactive in communication and documentation helps navigate these challenges and supports successful project advancement.

What is the difference between Preclinical Research Engineer vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectPreclinical Research EngineerLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biomedical, Biological, or related fields; some roles may require certifications in lab techniquesAssociate's or Bachelor's degree; technical training or certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, often involved in experimental design and data analysisLaboratories performing routine testing, sample preparation, and data recording
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in biotech, pharmaceutical, and research institutions focusing on preclinical studiesCommon in hospitals, research labs, and manufacturing settings for routine lab work

Preclinical Research Engineers focus on designing and conducting experiments to evaluate new drugs or therapies before clinical trials, requiring advanced education and analytical skills. Laboratory Technicians perform routine lab tasks, supporting research activities with less emphasis on experimental design. Both roles are essential in the research process but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

More about Preclinical Research Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Preclinical Research Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Preclinical Research Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Preclinical Research Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Preclinical Research Engineer jobs include:
Research Specialist A

Research Specialist A

The University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

$44K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday


University Of Pennsylvania rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 534 rated colleges and universities


Job description

University Overview
The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Large Employers in 2023.
Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.
The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.
Posted Job Title
Research Specialist A
Job Profile Title
Research Specialist A
Job Description Summary
The Research Specialist A will be responsible for assisting with the performance of multiple preclinical research studies for the Functional and Metabolic Imaging Group within the Department of Radiology. Our research team employs its collective, wide-ranging experience in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Engineering to conduct preclinical research focused lung transplant and radiation-induced lung injury in rodent models. For this particular position, the successful candidate will support a senior Research Specialist in assisting graduate students, postdocs, and faculty with animal studies and animal care; he or she will also assist with other research activities including specimen collection, researching and writing animal protocols, preparing and submitting regulatory documentation, maintaining laboratory space, and ordering supplies.
Job Description
Job Responsibilities
The Research Specialist A will be responsible for assisting with the performance of multiple preclinical research studies for the Functional and Metabolic Imaging Group within the Department of Radiology. Our research team employs its collective, wide-ranging experience in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Engineering to conduct preclinical research focused lung transplant and radiation-induced lung injury in rodent models. For this particular position, the successful candidate will support a senior Research Specialist in assisting graduate students, postdocs, and faculty with animal studies and animal care; he or she will also assist with other research activities including specimen collection, researching and writing animal protocols, preparing and submitting regulatory documentation, maintaining laboratory space, and ordering supplies.
Position is Contingent upon grant funding
Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science and 0 to 1 year of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.

Job Location - City, State
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Department / School
Perelman School of Medicine
Pay Range
$44,500.00 - $50,000.00 Annual Rate
Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.
Special Requirements
Background checks may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.
University Benefits
  • Health, Life, and Flexible Spending Accounts: Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits to protect you and your family's health and welfare. You can also use flexible spending accounts to pay for eligible health care and dependent care expenses with pre-tax dollars.
  • Tuition: Take advantage of Penn's exceptional tuition benefits. You, your spouse, and your dependent children can get tuition assistance here at Penn. Your dependent children are also eligible for tuition assistance at other institutions.
  • Retirement: Penn offers generous retirement plans to help you save for your future. Penn's Basic, Matching, and Supplemental retirement plans allow you to save for retirement on a pre-tax or Roth basis. Choose from a wide variety of investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.
  • Time Away from Work: Penn provides you with a substantial amount of time away from work during the course of the year. This allows you to relax, take vacations, attend to personal affairs, recover from illness or injury, spend time with family-whatever your personal needs may be.
  • Long-Term Care Insurance: In partnership with Genworth Financial, Penn offers faculty and staff (and your eligible family members) long-term care insurance to help you cover some of the costs of long-term care services received at home, in the community or in a nursing facility. If you apply when you're newly hired, you won't have to provide proof of good health or be subject to underwriting requirements. Eligible family members must always provide proof of good health and are subject to underwriting.
  • Wellness and Work-life Resources: Penn is committed to supporting our faculty and staff as they balance the competing demands of work and personal life. That's why we offer a wide variety of programs and resources to help you care for your health, your family, and your work-life balance.
  • Professional and Personal Development: Penn provides an array of resources to help you advance yourself personally and professionally.
  • University Resources: As a member of the Penn community, you have access to a wide range of University resources as well as cultural and recreational activities. Take advantage of the University's libraries and athletic facilities, or visit our arboretum and art galleries. There's always something going on at Penn, whether it's a new exhibit at the Penn Museum, the latest music or theater presentation at the Annenberg Center, or the Penn Relays at Franklin Field to name just a few examples. As a member of the Penn community, you're right in the middle of the excitement-and you and your family can enjoy many of these activities for free.
  • Discounts and Special Services: From arts and entertainment to transportation and mortgages, you'll find great deals for University faculty and staff. Not only do Penn arts and cultural centers and museums offer free and discounted admission and memberships to faculty and staff. You can also enjoy substantial savings on other goods and services such as new cars from Ford and General Motors, cellular phone service plans, movie tickets, and admission to theme parks.
  • Flexible Work Hours: Flexible work options offer creative approaches for completing work while promoting balance between work and personal commitments. These approaches involve use of non-traditional work hours, locations, and/or job structures.
  • Penn Home Ownership Services: Penn offers a forgivable loan for eligible employees interested in buying a home or currently residing in West Philadelphia, which can be used for closing costs or home improvements.
  • Adoption Assistance: Penn will reimburse eligible employees on qualified expenses in connection with the legal adoption of an eligible child, such as travel or court fees, for up to two adoptions in your household.

To learn more, please visit: https://www.hr.upenn.edu/PennHR/benefits-pay

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About University of Pennsylvania

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Employers By State in 2021.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Philadelphia, PA, US

Year founded

1740