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Principal R&D Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

M.M.A. Design LLC

R+D Engineer

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$86K - $116K/yr

R+D Engineer This is NOT an entry level position. The R+D Engineer is responsible for developing innovative solutions, improving existing products, and supporting the company's technology roadmap.

PSG Global Solutions

Assoc R-D Engineer

Chicopee, MA

MDTJP00018981 JOB TITLE: Assoc R-D Engineer CLIENT: Medtronic (Medical Devices Company) CONTRACT: 12 months initial contract (05/29/2017 to 05/25/2018) LOCATION:2 Ludlow Park Chicopee, MA Must Haves ...

W3Global Inc.

R &D Engineer

Winfield, KS

$55K - $65K/yr

Ensure compliance with all safety rules and standards. * Assist other Fire Test Lab technicians with any lab, service and R & D functions as required. * Other duties as assigned. Skills ...

PSG Global Solutions

R-D Engineer

Chicopee, MA

Company Description Prominent Medical Devices Company Must Haves for the position - BS in science or engineering or equivalent experience. 5-7 or more yrs. of experience. Will consider more senior ...

PSG Global Solutions

R-D Engineer

Mansfield, MA · On-site

Company Description Prominent Medical Devices Company Must Haves for the position - BS in science or engineering or equivalent experience. 5-7 or more yrs. of experience. Will consider more senior ...

LIGHTERA

R & D Engineer

Sturbridge, MA · On-site

We are seeking a highly motivated engineer to lead and contribute to the development of optical fiber manufacturing processes. This role requires expertise in chemical or optical engineering, physics ...

Forbo Movement Systems

R & D Engineer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

The R&D Engineer plays a key role in the design, development, and successful introduction of new products, while also improving existing product lines. This position supports cross-functional teams ...

Lightera

R & D Engineer

Sturbridge, MA

Bachelor's degree in physics, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or asimilarfield. ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS: (Preferred qualifications, certifications, and/or licenses) * 2+ years of ...

Sherwin-Williams

R&D- Engineer II

Grove City, OH · On-site

$82K - $104K/yr

This role uses project to implement new equipment and upgrade/maintain existing equipment as well as process engineering principals to improve Scale up efficiency in both quality and lead-time to ...

Sherwin-Williams

R&D- Engineer II

Grove City, OH · On-site

This role uses project to implement new equipment and upgrade/maintain existing equipment as well as process engineering principals to improve Scale up efficiency in both quality and lead-time to ...

PSG Global Solutions

R/D Engineer II

Boston, MA

$113K - $155K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer will work within the R&D engineering team to develop and support the next-generation minimally invasive surgical robotic platform. This Senior Engineer will participate ...

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 ...

IQVIA

Principal R Programmer

Durham, NC

$98K - $273K/yr

Experienced R programmer needed to provide technical expertise for clinical PK/PD department to meet internal and external needs. Uses R and companion software to develop custom programming code to ...

IQVIA

Principal R Programmer

Durham, NC

$98K - $273K/yr

Experienced R programmer needed to provide technical expertise for clinical PK/PD department to meet internal and external needs. Uses R and companion software to develop custom programming code to ...

IQVIA, Inc.

Principal R Programmer

Durham, NC · On-site

$98K - $273K/yr

Experienced R programmer needed to provide technical expertise for clinical PK/PD department to meet internal and external needs. Uses R and companion software to develop custom programming code to ...

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Principal R D Engineer information

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$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

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

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal r&d engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Principal R&D Engineer vs Senior R&D Engineer?

AspectPrincipal R&D EngineerSenior R&D Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's/Master's/PhD in Engineering or related field; extensive experienceBachelor's/Master's in Engineering; significant experience
Work EnvironmentLeads complex projects, strategic planning, cross-team collaborationExecutes projects, supports design and development tasks
Industry UsageUsed in advanced R&D departments, innovation teamsCommon in product development teams, R&D labs

The Principal R&D Engineer typically holds a higher level of responsibility, focusing on strategic innovation and leading complex projects, whereas the Senior R&D Engineer primarily supports project execution and technical development. Both roles require strong technical expertise, but the Principal position involves more leadership and vision-setting within R&D teams.

What engineers make $500,000?

Principal R&D Engineers in high-tech industries, such as aerospace, semiconductor, or software development, can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, reflecting their expertise in innovation, project management, and technical leadership.

What are Principal R&D Engineers?

Principal R&D (Research and Development) Engineers are senior-level professionals who lead and oversee complex engineering projects focused on innovation and the development of new products, technologies, or processes. They are responsible for guiding research initiatives, setting technical direction, and mentoring junior engineers within their teams. Principal R&D Engineers often collaborate with cross-functional teams, manage project timelines, and ensure that technical solutions align with business goals. Their expertise is crucial for driving technological advancements and maintaining a competitive edge in the industry.

How much money do R&D engineers make?

R&D engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, industry, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in areas like materials science or software development can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Principal R&D Engineers in high-tech industries, such as aerospace, semiconductor, or software development, can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, reflecting their seniority and impact on product innovation.

What does a principal R&D engineer do?

A principal R&D engineer leads research and development projects to innovate and improve products or technologies. They oversee technical teams, develop prototypes, and apply advanced engineering skills, often using tools like CAD software and testing equipment, to drive strategic technical goals within an organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal R&D Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal R&D Engineer, you need deep expertise in engineering principles, advanced problem-solving abilities, and typically a master's or PhD in a relevant field. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, project management systems, and sometimes certifications like Six Sigma or PMP are common requirements. Leadership, creativity, and effective communication are soft skills that help drive innovation and guide multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure successful development of cutting-edge solutions, efficient project delivery, and sustained competitive advantage for the organization.

What are some common challenges faced by Principal R&D Engineers when leading cross-functional innovation projects?

Principal R&D Engineers often encounter challenges such as aligning diverse technical teams, balancing innovation with project timelines, and managing resource constraints. Coordinating input from various departments—such as product management, manufacturing, and quality assurance—requires strong communication and leadership skills. Additionally, they must ensure compliance with regulatory standards while fostering creative problem-solving within their teams. Successfully navigating these challenges is crucial for delivering breakthrough products and advancing company goals.
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Principal R D Engineer jobs near you

R+D Engineer

M.M.A. Design LLC

Broomfield, CO • On-site

$86K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Job Title: R+D Engineer

Job Description: This is NOT an entry level position. The R+D Engineer is responsible for developing innovative solutions, improving existing products, and supporting the company’s technology roadmap. This role requires a self-motivated problem-solver who thrives in a fast-paced environment and can work independently with minimal supervision while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams when needed.

Job Duties: 

  • Design, prototype, and test new products, systems, or components from concept through production readiness.
  • Conduct research to identify emerging technologies, materials, and processes that enhance product performance or reduce cost.
  • Tap into market research to understand industry needs, market gaps.
  • Plan and execute experiments, document results, and present findings to company stakeholders and leaders.
  • Develop models, drawings, and technical documentation to support designs.
  • Analyze test data and iterate on designs to meet performance, safety, and regulatory requirements.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transition designs into production.
  • Troubleshoot technical issues, propose solutions, and drive implementation.
  • Maintain awareness of industry trends and recommend opportunities for innovation.
  • Ensure compliance with relevant standards, policies, and safety guidelines.
  • Support business development efforts with definition of new products and solutions, write proposals and grants.

Skills + Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related Engineering field (Master’s degree preferred).
  • 5+ years of engineering experience in product development or research.
  • Proven ability to work independently, set priorities, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail and the ability to determine ROI.
  • Self-starter with critical thinking skills, common sense, curiosity and a passion for innovation.
  • Proficiency in CAD software and engineering tools (e.g., SolidWorks, MATLAB, or similar).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and cross-team collaboration.
  • Good organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to multitask.
  • Combination of office, lab, and hands-on prototyping environments.
  • May require occasional travel for testing, field trials, or vendor collaboration.
  • Comfortable standing, walking, and lifting boxes up to 50 lbs.

MMA also values:

  • Strong sense of ownership.
  • Creative and resourceful problem solvers.
  • Collaborative team players with a good work ethic.
  • Focus on excellence.