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R&D Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ALIGN Executive Search

R & D Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

Develop and execute engineering tests, including benchtop, verification & validation (V&V), and pre-clinical studies * Create comprehensive test protocols and reports * Design and build tools, jigs ...

ALIGN Executive Search

R & D Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

Develop and execute engineering tests, including benchtop, verification & validation (V&V), and pre-clinical studies * Create comprehensive test protocols and reports * Design and build tools, jigs ...

ALIGN Executive Search

R & D Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

Build preliminary sketches, 3D models, detailed design concepts, and engineering prototypes. [1] * Testing & Validation: Plan and run benchtop tests, verification and validation (V&V), and pre ...

Masimo

Engineer, Failure Analysis

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Works closely with Compliance, Regulatory, R &D Engineering, Operations and QA at various levels within the organization to understand the root cause of product failures and identify product ...

Masimo

Engineer, Failure Analysis

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Works closely with Compliance, Regulatory, R &D Engineering, Operations and QA at various levels within the organization to understand the root cause of product failures and identify product ...

R.D. Olson

Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Project Engineer - R.D. Olson Construction | SoCal Sedona, AZ & Southern California | Commercial GC | Hospitality + Multifamily This isn't just another construction job. It's your launchpad. At R.D.

The-Gill-Corporation

R & D Manager

El Monte, CA · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a related technical discipline required; Master's degree or other advanced degree preferred. Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry or a ...

R D Olson Construction

Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Project Engineer - R.D. Olson Construction | SoCal Sedona, AZ & Southern California | Commercial GC | Hospitality + Multifamily This isn't just another construction job. It's your launchpad. At R.D.

R.D. Olson

Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$65 - $96/hr

Project Engineer - R.D. Olson Construction | SoCal Sedona, AZ & Southern California | Commercial GC | Hospitality + Multifamily This isn't just another construction job. It's your launchpad. At R.D.

JRG Partners

Director of R & D

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$210K - $240K/yr

Our client, a leading Food Technology Company is seeking a R & D Director. This is a fast growing ... Bachelor's degree in food engineering, food science or a similar discipline; Master's degree or MBA ...

The Gill Corporation

R & D Manager (85690)

El Monte, CA · On-site

$161.56 - $194.65/hr

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a related technical discipline required; Master's degree or other advanced degree preferred. Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry or a ...

THE GILL CORPORATION

R & D Manager (85690)

El Monte, CA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a related technical discipline required; Master's degree or other advanced degree preferred. Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry or a ...

The Gill Corporation

R & D Manager (85690)

El Monte, CA · On-site

$161K - $194K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a related technical discipline required; Master's degree or other advanced degree preferred. Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry or a ...

THE GILL CORPORATION

R & D Manager (85690)

El Monte, CA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a related technical discipline required; Master's degree or other advanced degree preferred. Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry or a ...

The Contingent Plan

Technical Writer II

San Diego, CA · On-site

Collaborate with multiple departments, including Q&R, R&;D, Engineering, and document control, to establish standardized procedures and work instructions in accordance to PIL, PQMS, and Excellence ...

R.D. Olson

Project Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$96K - $140K/yr

Project Manager - R.D. Olson Construction | SoCal Southern California | Commercial GC | Hospitality ... engineering wins and track profitability ✔ Mentor PEs and APMs -- grow the next generation ✔ ...

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R D Engineering information

See California salary details

$19.7K

$95.3K

$149K

How much do r&d engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for r&d engineering in California is $95,306.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an R&D engineer?

An R&D (Research and Development) Engineering job involves designing, testing, and improving products, processes, or technologies. Engineers in this role work on innovation by researching new materials, methods, or techniques to enhance performance and efficiency. They collaborate with cross-functional teams, conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop prototypes. The goal is to bring cutting-edge solutions from concept to production while ensuring feasibility and compliance with industry standards.

What does an R&D engineer do?

A typical week in R&D Engineering involves a blend of hands-on experimentation, data analysis, team meetings, and documentation. You may spend part of your time designing experiments or prototypes, troubleshooting technical issues, collaborating with cross-functional teams (such as product development, manufacturing, or marketing), and presenting findings. In addition to technical tasks, you will likely participate in brainstorming sessions, literature reviews, and strategic planning. The pace can be dynamic and project timelines might shift based on new discoveries or business objectives, but the variety keeps the role engaging and intellectually stimulating.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an R&D engineer?

To thrive in R&D Engineering, you need a solid understanding of scientific principles, problem-solving abilities, and an engineering degree, often with specialization in a particular discipline like mechanical, electrical, or chemical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, data analysis tools, prototyping equipment, and project management systems is typically expected, and certifications like Six Sigma or PMP can be advantageous. Strong collaboration, creativity, and effective communication skills help R&D engineers excel when tackling complex problems in multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are essential for driving innovation, ensuring technical feasibility, and efficiently bringing new products or processes from concept to reality.

Is R&D engineering a good career?

R&D engineering is a valuable career that involves developing new products and technologies, often requiring strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of engineering principles. It offers opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning, with roles typically requiring a bachelor's or higher degree in engineering or related fields. Job stability and growth depend on industry demand and individual expertise.

What are the most commonly searched types of R&D Engineering jobs in California?

The most popular types of R&D Engineering jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to R&D Engineering jobs in California?

For R&D Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching R&D Engineering jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for R&D Engineering jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for R&D Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most R&D Engineering job openings:

R D Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various R&D Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,306 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

R & D Engineer

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

ALIGN Executive Search
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about ALIGN Executive Searchexternal

$100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

This is a great opportunity for a hands-on engineer who wants to design and develop next-generation medical devices, with strong potential exposure to the endovascular catheter space.

 

What You'll Do

  • Design and develop medical devices and related accessories
  • Develop and execute engineering tests, including benchtop, verification & validation (V&V), and pre-clinical studies
  • Create comprehensive test protocols and reports
  • Design and build tools, jigs, and fixtures to support prototyping, manufacturing, and testing
  • Create sketches and detailed design concepts; perform measurements, analyses, and build engineering prototypes
  • Communicate project status, risks, and opportunities to the project team and management
  • Contribute to the company's IP base through active idea generation and concept development
  • Assemble product drawings, specifications, risk analyses, and technical documentation; maintain proper documentation within the Design Dossier and Design History File (DHF) for regulatory compliance
  • Support product transfer and scale-up activities
  • Ensure compliance with quality system procedures and applicable federal, state, and local regulations, as well as company Health, Safety, and Environmental policies
  • Help maintain the R&D lab to support efficient prototyping and process development
  • Manage direct or indirect reports as needed

 

What You Bring

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Biomedical, Materials, or Mechanical Engineering
  • Minimum 2 years of engineering experience in development or manufacturing within a regulated medical device environment
  • Experience in the endovascular catheter industry is a strong plus
  • Working proficiency in SolidWorks for 3D modeling and engineering drawings
  • Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
  • A collaborative, team-first mindset
  • Sense of urgency with the ability to multitask, prioritize, manage risk, and meet deadlines
  • Excellent written and verbal communication, presentation, and technical writing skills
  • Familiarity with FDA submission processes, ISO requirements, and QSR requirements preferred
  • Ability to travel approximately 5% of the time, domestically and internationally
  • Ability to travel to Temecula as needed for development and product transfer projects

 

Health and Wellness

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and life insurance plans
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Gym memberships or wellness perks []

 

Financial and Retirement

  • 401(k) retirement plan with company matching
  • Performance-based bonuses (up to 20% for certain engineering tiers) []

 

Time Off and Professional Growth

  • Generous paid time off, including vacation and sick leave
  • Paid company holidays (averaging around 11 days per year)
  • Academic and tuition reimbursement programs

Company Description

An established and growing law firm that cares deeply, moves fast, and never loses sight of the human side of what we do.