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Professional Researcher Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Conduct research and/or experiments to collect required data and validate research ideas in ... Experience with multi-disciplinary optimization (model-based and data-driven). • Professional ...

Conduct research and/or experiments to collect required data and validate research ideas in ... Professional Skills: * Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively ...

Conduct research and/or experiments to collect required data and validate research ideas in ... Experience with multi-disciplinary optimization (model-based and data-driven). • Professional ...

Conduct research and/or experiments to collect required data and validate research ideas in ... Professional Skills: * Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively ...

Field Researcher - Detroit, MI Company Overview: CoStar Group is a leading global provider of ... Commercial Real Estate industry professionals around the globe use CoStar to access the most ...

Evaluating and supporting competency-based professional development approaches for the infant and ... Applying innovative research approaches and advanced statistical methods to answer policy-relevant ...

$15 - $16/hr

Ability to read legal documentation, high level administrative experience, legal court research experience and/or professional work experience preferred. * Work well under pressure with time ...

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Professional Researcher information

See Michigan salary details

$26.1K

$98.6K

$143.4K

How much do professional researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional researcher in Michigan is $98,579.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,400.00 and $134,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional researcher?

A Professional Researcher is responsible for gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information to support decision-making in various fields such as academia, business, science, or government. They use various research methods, including data collection, literature reviews, and qualitative or quantitative analysis. Their work often involves synthesizing findings into reports, presentations, or publications. Professional Researchers must have strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly.

What does a professional researcher do?

A Professional Researcher typically engages in designing and conducting studies, gathering and analyzing data, and synthesizing findings into reports or presentations. They may collaborate closely with other researchers, subject matter experts, or stakeholders to shape research questions and ensure the validity of results. Daily tasks often include literature reviews, data collection (such as interviews or surveys), drafting grant proposals, and presenting outcomes at team meetings. This role combines independent work with frequent collaboration, offering variety and opportunities to build deep expertise in a chosen field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional researcher?

To thrive as a Professional Researcher, you need strong analytical abilities, expertise in data collection and analysis, and a relevant advanced degree, such as a master's or Ph.D., depending on the field. Proficiency with research databases, statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), and familiarity with citation management tools or industry-specific certifications are often required. Excellent written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and attention to detail help researchers excel in compiling and reporting their findings. These competencies are crucial for producing rigorous, high-quality research and effectively disseminating insights to stakeholders.

Do I need a PhD to be a professional researcher?

A PhD is not always required to be a professional researcher, as many roles value relevant experience, analytical skills, and subject matter expertise. However, certain research positions, especially in academia or specialized fields, may prefer or require a doctoral degree. Skills in data analysis, critical thinking, and familiarity with research tools are also important for success in this role.

What kind of professional researcher makes the most money?

Senior-level research positions such as market research directors, data science researchers, or scientific research managers tend to earn the highest salaries among professional researchers. These roles often require advanced degrees, specialized skills in data analysis or scientific methods, and leadership responsibilities, which contribute to higher compensation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Researcher jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Researcher jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Professional Researcher job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,579 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Propulsion Researcher

General Motors

Warren, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 hours ago


General Motors rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

General Motors

Based on 308 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.3

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.3 out of 10

Automakers average

Based on 6,327 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description
Advanced (PhD) degree in science/engineering disciplines.
New PhD grad up to 1-3 years work experience. Individual Contributor. Generate innovative ideas, suggest new project areas, and establish technical plans. Conduct research and/or experiments to collect required data and validate research ideas in developing. Write timely and high-quality research reports, external publications, and records of invention to document new ideas and research results in your area of research.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry and technical developments to grow core technical skills and competencies.
Establish relationships and develop partners with divisional staffs to meet project objectives
Observe and ensure support personnel proper safety practices and ensure personal protective equipment is in working order. Communicate laboratory hazards appropriately.
Execute technical and special assignments.
Assist lab management in identifying mega-trends in technology and business strategies in the automotive sector.
Contribute responses to threats and opportunities.
Represent GM effectively to the external technical and business communities.
Participate in technical discussions and reviews as an expert in your field.
Grow and diversify personal skills and competency base.
In-depth knowledge of the state-of-the-art research in specialized areas.
Consistently demonstrate innovative thinking and strong partnership.
Strong verbal and written communication skills
New Phd Graduate, 1-3 years experience, individual contributor
• U.S. Person Status: This position is subject to export control regulations and requires the candidate to be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, asylee, or refugee).
• Education:
  • Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical or Controls Engineering, or a related discipline with demonstrated research experience, or
  • Master's degree in a relevant field with ongoing Ph.D. studies.

• Experience: 0-3 years of relevant industry or research experience.
• Technical Expertise:
  • Strong foundation in vehicle propulsion systems, including propulsion architectures for hybrid, plug-in hybrid, electric and conventional vehicle powertrains.
  • Strong background in physics-based modeling of continuous and discrete systems using first-principles approaches.
  • Proficiency in vehicle energy analysis, including assessment of sub-component or sub-system impact on vehicle efficiency, losses and vehicle fuel economy and range.
  • Familiarity with vehicle test procedures and standard drive cycles used for vehicle fuel economy/ range and performance assessment.
  • Knowledge of power transfer mechanisms commonly used in propulsion systems, including electrically variable transmissions, step gear and automatic transmissions, final drives etc.
  • Knowledge of propulsion components, including engines, electric motors and batteries and their impact on the propulsion system.
  • Familiarity with the use of any 1D modeling tool for vehicle energy assessment.
  • Hands on experience with common prototyping software (e.g. dSPACE) and lab/ dyno experience related to propulsion components or vehicle testing.
  • Experience with design optimization workflows using CFD and CAE methods.
  • Working knowledge of AI/ML frameworks and methods, including regression, classification, deep learning, use of digital twins, reinforcement learning.
  • Strong background in physics-based modeling of continuous and discrete systems using first-principles approaches.
  • Experience with multi-disciplinary optimization (model-based and data-driven).

• Professional Skills:
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse teams.
  • Demonstrated ability to innovate and operate effectively in environments with ambiguity or evolving requirements.
  • Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of driving independent work.

This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}.This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.
About GM
Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.
Why Join Us
We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.
Benefits Overview
From day one, we're looking out for your well-being-at work and at home-so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.
Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)
General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.
All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.
We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.
Accommodations
General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, emailus or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.

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About General Motors

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General Motors is a company with global scale and capabilities, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with employees around the world. The company employs over 165,000 people, serves six continents, operates across 22 time zones, and has a diverse workforce speaking 75 languages1. GM’s vision is to drive the world forward by pioneering innovations that move and connect people to what matters. The company is working towards an all-electric future with its new Ultium Platform and is pushing transportation options beyond our wildest imaginations with autonomous vehicles. GM is also committed to becoming the most inclusive company in the world.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1908