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R&D Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Previous experience with Government R&D. * Background in Engineering and implementation of standard Systems Engineering processes. Physical Demands or Work Environment: The work environment ...

5-D Systems, a KRATOS Company, is seeking a highly motivated candidate who will provide full lifecycle systems engineering technical contribution and leadership in support of turbine engine ...

R & D Specialist

Islip, NY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Work on project definitions and creation in conjunction with the R+D Manager. * Manage the project ... Responsible for maintenance of recipes in the Company's ERP system. * Responsible for keeping ...

5-D Systems, a KRATOS Company, is seeking a highly motivated candidate who will provide full lifecycle systems engineering technical contribution and leadership in support of radar and hypersonic ...

5-D Systems, a KRATOS Company, is seeking a highly motivated candidate who will provide full lifecycle systems engineering technical contribution and leadership in support of turbine engine ...

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.

5-D Systems, a KRATOS Company, is seeking a highly motivated candidate who will provide full lifecycle systems engineering technical contribution and leadership in support of turbine engine ...

Systems Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Description Nova Engineering Team is looking for a System Engineer to work with Design Engineers ... The candidate must have a proven record on accomplishments in R&D. * Propose solutions for customer ...

The R&D Design Engineer will be responsible for the development, design, validation and continuous improvement of products and engineered solutions from concept through production release. This role ...

Process Engineer R & D

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$78K - $100K/yr

PURPOSE OF THE JOB The R&D Process Engineer (MPI) is a hands-on technical role responsible for developing, scaling, and industrializing new materials, formulations, and manufacturing processes for ...

PURPOSE OF THE JOB The R&D Process Engineer (MPI) is a hands-on technical role responsible for developing, scaling, and industrializing new materials, formulations, and manufacturing processes for ...

Sr Engineer R & D

Summit, IL · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

As a PMA Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing ... Development and implement improved process control systems and quality control testing to monitor ...

Sr Engineer R & D

Summit, IL

$104K - $144K/yr

As a PMA Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing ... Development and implement improved process control systems and quality control testing to monitor ...

We are seeking a Laser Systems Engineer to join this team in Boston. Depending on focus area, the ... Ph.D. in a relevant discipline (strongly preferred for R&D-focused roles) The approximate base ...

We are seeking a Laser Systems Engineer to join this team in Boston. Depending on focus area, the ... Ph.D. in a relevant discipline (strongly preferred for R&D-focused roles) The approximate base ...

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Optical, Microwave, System, or Embedded Software). Master's degree is a plus. * Experience leading Engineering teams in the development of electronic ...

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R D Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

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

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for r&d systems engineer in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, particularly in tech companies or industries with high demand for expertise.

Do R&D engineers make good money?

R&D Systems Engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and industry. They often have specialized skills in engineering, research, and development tools, which can lead to higher compensation compared to other engineering roles. Overall, the role can be financially rewarding for qualified professionals.

What are R&D Systems Engineers?

R&D Systems Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and integrate complex systems or products, often in research and development environments. They work at the intersection of multiple engineering disciplines to ensure that all parts of a system function together effectively. Their responsibilities typically include requirement analysis, system design, prototyping, testing, and troubleshooting. R&D Systems Engineers play a key role in bringing innovative ideas from concept to reality, often working in industries like aerospace, automotive, electronics, or biotechnology.

What is the difference between R&D Systems Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectR&D Systems EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, Systems Engineering certificationBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, product development teams, cross-disciplinary projectsDesign offices, manufacturing plants, testing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, aerospace, automotive, biomedical industriesManufacturing firms, industrial design, automotive, aerospace

While both roles require engineering degrees and involve technical problem-solving, R&D Systems Engineers focus on developing integrated systems and solutions, often working across disciplines. Mechanical Engineers typically concentrate on designing and testing mechanical components and systems. The choice depends on whether your interest lies in systems integration or mechanical design within the engineering field.

How does an R&D Systems Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the development process?

As an R&D Systems Engineer, you’ll frequently work alongside specialists from hardware, software, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams. Your role often involves integrating diverse technical contributions, coordinating requirements, and resolving complex system-level challenges. Effective communication and project management skills are essential, as you’ll facilitate meetings, document decisions, and ensure all components align with project objectives. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and provides opportunities to gain insights from multiple engineering disciplines.

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

To thrive as an R&D Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in systems engineering principles, product development, and a relevant STEM degree such as electrical, mechanical, or computer engineering. Familiarity with modeling and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink), requirements management systems, and often certifications like INCOSE CSEP are typical for this role. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating across multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are essential for innovating, integrating complex systems, and delivering high-quality solutions in research and development environments.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior R&D Systems Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in systems integration, and often specialized certifications can reach or exceed a $300,000 annual salary. These roles typically involve leadership responsibilities, complex project management, and working in high-tech or highly regulated industries such as aerospace, defense, or biotechnology.

What is an R&D systems engineer?

An R&D Systems Engineer designs, develops, and tests complex systems and products in research and development environments. They often work with cross-disciplinary teams, utilize engineering tools, and apply scientific principles to innovate and improve technologies. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of systems integration are essential for this role.
More about R D Systems Engineer jobs
Infographic showing various R&D Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.
Systems Engineer

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

* This position is eligible for a $500 ZelTech Non-Employee Referral fee. Contact ZelTech Recruiters for questions concerning this matter. * 

Join Our Talent Community to Stay Connected!

Job Summary:

ZelTech is seeking resourceful and innovative multi-discipline individual multi-discipline systems engineering experience. Integration of wireless/over-the-air systems and/or sensor data driven technologies. This person will provide on-site system level development, prototype integration, prototype design, operational field, and test support to the Government customer at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS), Florida.


Responsibilities:

  • Provide support for in-house technology development initiatives, including feasibility assessments of proposals and ongoing projects by other parties in government, academia, and industry.
  • Understand systems engineering and project management processes and apply as needed, including development of requirements.
  • Provide supporting technical and logistics documentation relative to recommended design improvements and performance requirements.
  • Provide, design, and make recommendations for complex multi-discipline systems.
  • Provide operational support to field designed systems.
  • Prepare statements of work, cost estimates, presentations and reports, and research technical information to support design and prototyping.
  • Support project planning, design, development, and execution for research development, investigations, analyses, demonstrations, and testing.
  • Recommend improvements in design, operation, maintenance, and safety for assigned systems and equipment.
  • Must be able to handle multiple tasks/projects simultaneously and make recommendations for improvement/refinement and advise technically.
  • Must be able to work in fast paced and high energy environment.
  • Reports on project status, risk, expenditure, execution, etc.
  • Integrate multiple components and COTs/GOTs systems into various systems and payloads at system level.
  • Plan, lead, and conduct hardware development, modification, and related functions to adapt vendor-manufactured hardware to meet Government needs and contingencies.
  • Analyze problems, define risks, and develop mitigation plans rapidly.
  • Design and implement payloads or other equipment involving mechanical, electrical, software and structural design and engineering skills.
  • Comply with CCAFS industrial hygiene requirements.
  • Must be resourceful, adaptable, innovative, creative, and ready to lead their organization and project teams on mission critical projects.
  • Performs other duties as assigned to accomplish the mission goals.

Requirements:

  • Must be a US citizen.
  • Must possess current Top-Secret/ SCI clearance.
  • BA/BS (preferably in Mechatronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering) and ten (10) or more years of relevant experience.
  • Successful background and drug screening check.


Preferred Requirements:

  • Previous experience with Government R&D.
  • Background in Engineering and implementation of standard Systems Engineering processes.


Physical Demands or Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics and physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • The majority of the time is spent in an office setting.
  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance, vision, color vision and ability to adjust focus.
  • Frequently required to sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, and talk or hear.

About ZelTech:

Founded in 1988 by Ret. Col. Jack L. Ezzell Jr., Zel Technologies is a trusted leader in national security, providing comprehensive research, development, engineering, and operational support to the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, and federal agencies. Originally focused on leveraging operational and software expertise to improve time-critical targeting capabilities for the military, the company advanced its capabilities to provide scientific and HUMINT expertise for CBRNE collection and analysis. In the wake of 9/11, Zel Technologies rapidly expanded its capabilities to provide turnkey ISR support services to US Special Operations Forces (SOF), as well as advanced technical & operational intelligence, physical & data science, and engineering support services to the greater Intelligence and SOF Communities supporting global counterterrorism and CWMD operations.

Today, Zel Technologies remains at the forefront of intelligence missions, advancing CWMD and global counterterrorism efforts, while also addressing emerging threats posed by near-peer adversaries. Our team remains committed to delivering adaptive, innovative, and cost-effective solutions across multiple domains, in alignment with the mission priorities of the U.S. Government and its partner nations.                                          

 Our Mission:

Through our commitment to innovation and quality, our skilled teams deliver robust, technology driven solutions and insights that empower our customers to overcome complex challenges and achieve their mission objectives. 

Our Workforce:

ZelTech team members represent a wide range of backgrounds, skills, experience, and personalities bound together by common objectives and mutual respect. You will join a caring community of professionals, including many military veterans who challenge and support each other in seeking the right solutions to important matters.

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance 
  • 401k immediate vesting with company match
  • Flexible Spending Accounts 
  • Health Savings Account with company contributions
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Bonuses for performance
  • Voluntary life/accidental death & dismemberment 
  • Educational assistance and special training programs 
  • Voluntary benefits (accidental, critical illness, whole life) 
  • Group life insurance (Company paid)
  • Short-term and Long-term Disability Insurance (Company paid)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO), Holiday Leave, Jury Duty, and Military Leave 
  • Health and fitness reimbursement
  • Referral bonuses
  • Employee discounts on various services and products

Equal Opportunities:

ZelTech is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, marital status, military status, genetic predisposition, or any other basis protected by law.