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R&D Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Mice Groups, Inc.

Process Technician

Fremont, CA · On-site

Perform technical tests and experiments for process engineering within R&D. * Perform set up of processing equipment. * Monitors, audits, and provide guidance to line operators. * Process test runs ...

Rock West Composites

Manufacturing Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

You'll work closely with Engineering, Program Management, and Production teams to solve complex technical challenges and drive continuous improvement. This is a hands-on role in a small batch, R&D ...

Rock West Composites

Manufacturing Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

You'll work closely with Engineering, Program Management, and Production teams to solve complex technical challenges and drive continuous improvement. This is a hands-on role in a small batch, R&D ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsR&D Engineering JobsR&D Engineering Jobs in California

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 Sep 3, 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 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $95,306 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

R & D Product Development Specialist

GFF Career Page

City Of Industry, CA • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Description:

GENERAL SUMMARY

This is a salaried position in City of Industry, CA that reports to the R&D Supervisor. Designs & creates new products or alters & improves existing products; use chemistry, microbiology, engineering, & other sciences to study the principle underlying the processing & deterioration of products. Develops specifications & ensures products are produced in compliance with established quality parameters. Supports transition of new products from bench top to production scale. Ensures that new products developed meet all regulatory & customer requirements; follows HACCP steps to ensure product safety & stability.


SCOPE OF JOB FUNCTION

  • Research & develop dressings & sauces that are in trend with consumer preference for new product profiles as per specific customer request.
  • Coordinate with customers for needed changes on development samples; provide revisions as per customer timeline.
  • Develop label formats per customer specifications, USDA labeling & standard of identity compliance. 
  • Ensure that product formulations comply with regulatory & industry standards, studies the microbiological, physical, & chemical properties of finished products & ingredients. 
  • Conduct HACCP analysis on new raw materials used for product development as well as new finished products developed.
  • Develop detailed mixing instructions to ensure that products are manufactured optimally & consistently meet the specifications. 
  • Create nutrition label & ingredient statements in compliance with NLEA (Nutrition Labeling Enforcement Act); ensure compliance with nutrition label claims. 
  • Ensure that checklist for new product development is completed before product launch, emphasis on batch check & packaging specifications.
  • Work with the Mix Deck mixers & helpers during the first 3 productions of new products to ensure that correct materials are used, validate recipe & mixing instructions.
  • Update mix deck recipe to include new products approved or changes as per SCR to be consistent with ROSS.
  • Complete Private Label Specification as per customer required Formats (Ready Pac, Tropical Smoothie, Longo’s, etc.) including web site specs up-date.
  • Evaluate raw material substitutes for specs deviation typically due to shortage or supplier issues; done by actual product application & group sensory.
  • Develop re-work order for complicated products put “On Hold- MRB;” non-compliance that needs actual product application confirmatory test.
  • Evaluate results of competitive product analysis to benchmark GFF products against competition. 
  • Shelf-life studies on challenge studies.
  •  SOP/SSOP review & development.
  • HACCP risk assessment. 
  • Other duties as assigned.
Requirements:

SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE

REQUIRED:

  • Must have a Degree in Technical Course (Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, etc.) or equivalent work experience.
  • 2-3 years’ experience in Product Development position.
  • Skilled in statistical charts & data analysis.
  • Good communication, leadership, & interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work well with team members & other departments.

DESIRED:

  • Knowledge of manufacturing environment & practices.