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Research And Development Engineer Jobs in California

This isn't just an R&D role -- you're helping define the culinary roadmap for a business with ... Methodical recipe developer: you build a quarterly roadmap and translate into weekly sprint ...

VP, Research & Development

Hemet, CA · On-site

$190 - $220/hr

The VP, R&D leads the engineering organization and is responsible for building a robust innovation pipeline, aligning product roadmaps to strategy, and fostering a high-performance culture grounded ...

R&D Engineer

Fremont, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $110K/yr

E Ink is seeking an R&D Engineer that can apply fundamental engineering principles to support the design, development, testing, and optimization of chemical processes and systems. The Engineer will ...

R&D Engineer Location: Huntington Beach, CA Compensation: $90,000 - $105,000 annually (depending on experience) About the Role SprintRay is redefining digital dentistry by offering the industry ...

R&D Engineer Location: Huntington Beach, CA Compensation: $90,000 - $105,000 annually (depending on experience) About the Role SprintRay is redefining digital dentistry by offering the industry ...

Basic Job Functions: Perform material and device research to enhance thin film solar cell ... Plan, execute, and characterize development engineering experiments in a laboratory environment ...

R&D Engineer

Fremont, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $110K/yr

E Ink is seeking an R&D Engineer that can apply fundamental engineering principles to support the design, development, testing, and optimization of chemical processes and systems. The Engineer will ...

Semiconductor R&D Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

We are seeking an R&D engineer with a strong experimental-science background to advance eProbe semiconductor inspection tools through hands-on characterization, data analysis, and algorithm ...

We are seeking an R&D engineer who specializes in compact and robust mechanical and optical design, assembly, and testing. As a hands-on R&D Engineer at AOSense, you will work with physicists and ...

We are seeking an R&D engineer who specializes in compact and robust mechanical and optical design, assembly, and testing. As a hands-on R&D Engineer at AOSense, you will work with physicists and ...

We are seeking an R&D engineer who specializes in compact and robust mechanical and optical design, assembly, and testing. As a hands-on R&D Engineer at AOSense, you will work with physicists and ...

R&D Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

E Ink is seeking an R&D Engineer that can apply fundamental engineering principles to support the design, development, testing, and optimization of chemical processes and systems. The Engineer will ...

We are seeking an R&D engineer with a strong experimental-science background to advance eProbe semiconductor inspection tools through hands-on characterization, data analysis, and algorithm ...

Showing results 41-60

Research And Development Engineer information

See California salary details

$19.7K

$95.3K

$149K

How much do research and development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development engineer 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 a research and development engineer?

A research and development engineer is responsible for conducting experiments and analyzing processes to determine better approaches to solving problems or product building. You can have this career in industries such as petroleum, aerospace, and mechanics. Your job duties include analyzing processes to find areas of improvement, conducting experiments to determine better approaches, and documenting findings so they can be shared with others. You may be required to use sophisticated tools such as computer-aided design software to create simulations and advanced microscopes for observing chemical reactions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research and development engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research and Development Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and often an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and project management systems is typically required, along with knowledge of industry-specific standards. Creativity, effective communication, and collaboration are crucial soft skills for innovation and teamwork. These skills enable R&D Engineers to design cutting-edge solutions, efficiently manage projects, and drive technological advancements in their industry.

How does a research and development engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the product development cycle?

Research and Development Engineers often work closely with teams such as product management, quality assurance, and manufacturing throughout the product development process. They contribute technical expertise during brainstorming sessions, share progress updates in regular meetings, and incorporate feedback from other departments to refine prototypes. Effective communication and teamwork are key, as R&D Engineers must ensure that their designs align with project requirements, regulatory standards, and production capabilities. This collaborative environment helps facilitate innovation while maintaining project timelines and product quality.

What is the difference between Research And Development Engineer vs Product Development Engineer?

AspectResearch And Development EngineerProduct Development Engineer
Primary FocusInnovating and exploring new technologies or conceptsDesigning, developing, and improving specific products
Work EnvironmentLabs, research facilities, early-stage projectsManufacturing, testing, and product launch phases
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, research experience, possibly advanced degreesEngineering degree, practical product design experience

Research And Development Engineers focus on creating new technologies and exploring innovative ideas, often working in labs and research settings. Product Development Engineers concentrate on transforming concepts into market-ready products, working closely with manufacturing and testing teams. Both roles require engineering backgrounds, but their core objectives and work environments differ significantly.

Is research and development engineer a good career?

A research and development engineer is a valuable role focused on innovating and improving products or processes, often requiring strong technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and knowledge of engineering tools. It can offer a challenging and rewarding career with opportunities for advancement in various industries such as technology, manufacturing, and healthcare.

What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Engineer jobs in California?

For Research And Development Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research And Development Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Research And Development Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Research And Development Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Research And Development Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Engineer jobs in CA?

For Research And Development Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Research And Development Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,306 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Research & Development Chemist (Energetics)

Ralliant

Hollister, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Research and Development Chemist (Senior)
Initiate, design, execute testing and interpret data for the development of industrial energetic products. Conduct exploratory research and synthesis to further existing knowledge or produce new knowledge and add to the development of potential products. Perform chemical analyses of various materials and chemicals. Broaden the knowledge base of state-of-the-art principles and theories. Skills including, but not limited to:
  • Ability to communicate difficult concepts and negotiate with others to adopt practical and applicable solutions to Research and Development (R&D) challenges in the energetics field.
  • Interface with engineering, safety and the production staff to lead functional teams or projects with moderate resource requirements, risk, and/or complexity.
  • Mentors lower-level chemists.
  • Demonstrate safety related energetic materials practices.
  • Collaborate with engineering associates in support of product function related investigations.
  • Ability to solve complex problems and take a broad perspective to introduce innovative solutions.
  • Interface with powder processing for the manufacture/scale-up of existing or new R&D materials.
  • Determine needs and prepare CARs and other documentation related to new (instrumentation and equipment) purchases.
  • Review and edit reports, presentations and other documents related to engineering, manufacturing and/or chemistry activities, including technical test plans and reports.
  • Generate white papers and support proposal preparation.
  • Proficient in the use of all laboratory instrumentation and operations.
  • Maintain a working knowledge of powder processing operations and testing requirements.
  • General understanding of engineering and test protocols related to ordnance operations.
  • Perform independent chemical research and development.
  • Conduct non-routine analyses that may require procedural modifications.
  • 25% travel requirement in support of R&D expansion.

Education Required:
  • BS, MS or Ph.D. in chemistry or technical discipline

Experience Required:
  • Experience in a technical and manufacturing environment in the aerospace/defense industry (7+ years of experience with a BS degree, 4+ years of experience with an MS degree, or 1+ years of experience with a Ph.D.);
  • ordnance experience is required.
  • Polymer chemistry experience is a plus.

#LI-JW2
Ralliant Corporation Overview
Ralliant, originally part of Fortive, now stands as a bold, independent public company driving innovation at the forefront of precision technology. With a global footprint and a legacy of excellence, we empower engineers to bring next-generation breakthroughs to life - faster, smarter, and more reliably. Our high-performance instruments, sensors, and subsystems fuel mission-critical advancements across industries, enabling real-world impact where it matters most. At Ralliant we're building the future, together with those driven to push boundaries, solve complex problems, and leave a lasting mark on the world.
About PacSci EMC
Pacific Scientific Energetic Materials Company (PacSci EMC), a Ralliant Corporation (NYSE: RAL) operating company, makes critical missions possible. From concept to demonstration to delivery, we provide leading-edge energetic materials, devices and subsystems for use in military and commercial applications. With engineering and manufacturing capability in Arizona and California, our associates work together to solve the toughest technical challenges with a dedication to Safety First, Quality Every TimeTM. We enable success for innumerable missions on a daily basis, impacting the lives of military personnel, law enforcement officers, commercial airline pilots, astronauts, and oil field operators. For nearly a century, PacSci EMC's experience and expertise has been relied upon in the times When Milliseconds MatterTM. For more information, go to www.psemc.com. PacSci EMC is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, sex, religion, age, national origin, color, disability, or veteran status. Nonetheless, US citizenship is a requirement for this position due to U.S. Government contractual requirements. We are committed to providing a workplace free of any discrimination or harassment. We all have a role in building a community where everyone belongs. Where you can speak your mind, be yourself, and feel supported. It's how we achieve more together - for each other, for our customers, and for the world. https://www.Ralliant.com/inclusion-diversity.
We Are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Ralliant Corporation and all Ralliant Companies are proud to be equal opportunity employers. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or other characteristics protected by law. Ralliant and all Ralliant Companies are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Individuals who need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment application process, please contact us at applyassistance@Ralliant.com.
Bonus or Equity
This position is also eligible for bonus as part of the total compensation package.
Pay Range
The salary range for this position (in local currency) is 104,300 - 193,700
Is this role subject to ITAR?
The essential duties of this position require adherence to U.S. Government export control regulations. Accordingly, candidates must either be U.S. Persons (i.e., U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, or protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)) or be prepared to collaborate with the company in securing the necessary U.S. government export authorizations. While the company encourages all interested applicants to apply, please be aware that ongoing employment is dependent upon obtaining the appropriate government export authorizations.