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Research And Development Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Flowserve

Specialist R&D Engineer

Kalamazoo, MI

The Specialist Research and Development (R&D) Engineer for Pumps and Seals is responsible for leading advanced research initiatives, developing innovative solutions, and optimizing the design and ...

Atego

Software Engineer

Zeeland, MI

This position will interface with Project Engineering, Hardware Engineering, Software Test, Program Management, and Research & Development. The following qualifications are required The following ...

Atego

Software Engineer

Zeeland, MI · On-site

This position will interface with Project Engineering, Hardware Engineering, Software Test, Program Management, and Research & Development. The following qualifications are required The following ...

Valeo

R&D Co-Op

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

You will be a key contributors on the product development team working alongside experienced R&D engineers. * You assist / Perform laboratory tests, including set-up, monitoring, measurement, data ...

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All JobsResearch And Development Engineer JobsResearch And Development Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Research And Development Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$17.4K

$84.2K

$131.6K

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

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development engineer in Michigan is $84,171.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Senior roles requiring advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities are more likely to reach this compensation level.

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.

What do you do as an R&D engineer?

An R&D engineer develops and tests new products, processes, or technologies to improve existing offerings or create innovative solutions. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and collaborate with cross-functional teams using tools like CAD software and laboratory equipment, often working in a research or development environment. Their work involves problem-solving, designing prototypes, and ensuring that new ideas meet technical and safety standards.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior research and development engineers, especially those with specialized skills in areas like software, electrical, or mechanical engineering, can earn $200,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with extensive experience, advanced degrees, leadership roles, or working in high-demand industries such as aerospace, technology, or pharmaceuticals.

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.

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 are Research and Development Engineers?

Research and Development (R&D) Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test new products, processes, or technologies. They work to innovate and improve existing products, often collaborating with other engineers, scientists, and product managers. Their responsibilities include conducting experiments, analyzing data, and ensuring that new developments meet industry standards and customer needs. R&D Engineers play a crucial role in keeping companies competitive by driving innovation and technological advancement.
More about Research And Development Engineer jobs
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What job categories do people searching Research And Development Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Research And Development Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
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What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Engineer jobs in MI? For Research And Development Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Research And Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research And Development Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,171 per year, or $40.5 per hour.
Specialist R&D Engineer

Specialist R&D Engineer

Flowserve

Kalamazoo, MI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Flowserve rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Role Summary:

The Specialist Research and Development (R&D) Engineer for Pumps and Seals is responsible for leading advanced research initiatives, developing innovative solutions, and optimizing the design and performance of pump and seal products. This role involves cross-functional collaboration, prototype testing, technology development, and providing technical expertise to support strategic business objectives.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Drive innovation by generating new designs, design methods, and technical solutions for pump and seal applications.
  • Plan, execute, and oversee tests and experiments, including both physical and simulation-based testing, to validate designs and ensure performance standards.
  • Collaborate with project management teams to establish project schedules, align expectations, and ensure timely project delivery.
  • Develop and present technical findings to stakeholders, ensuring clarity and technical accuracy.
  • Ensure compliance with R&D policies and best practices, maintaining rigorous evaluation standards.
  • Serve as the subject matter expert for specific product lines and applications, providing guidance and technical insights.
  • Share knowledge across teams, supporting skill development through training, webinars, and one-on-one coaching.
  • Author and present technical papers at industry symposiums, establishing technical credibility.
  • Lead decision-making processes in development projects, leveraging customer feedback to drive design improvements.
  • Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitive products through continuous learning and professional development.
  • Maintain expertise in mechanical engineering principles, design standards, and state-of-the-art technologies.

Required Skills / Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or relevant discipline
  • Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in pump and seal design, Research & Development, or related engineering roles.
  • Proven history of driving successful innovation in product development.
  • Extensive experience in R&D or new product development, including a strong understanding of design of experiments (DoE).
  • Proficiency in root cause analysis and problem-solving techniques.
  • Demonstrated experience developing and executing testing programs to meet customer or industry specifications.
  • Proficiency with 2D and 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor) including ability to read and interpret detailed engineering drawings with accuracy.
  • Competency in designing to meet recognized industry standards and applying calculation methods.
  • Experience in risk evaluation and mitigation in both design and project execution.
  • Strong technical writing skills for producing clear and detailed test reports.
  • Ability to make informed decisions, leveraging lessons learned for continuous improvement.
  • Technical expertise in the design of mechanical seals and industrial pumps.
  • Knowledge of additive manufacturing, advanced materials and coatings a plus.
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively in cross-functional teams.
  • Strong self-management skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks

Preferred Skills / Experience:

  • PhD

Benefits Starting on Day 1:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance (including FSA and HSA options)
  • Life Insurance + Supplemental Life, Child, Spousal, and AD&D Insurance
  • Short and Long Term Disability
  • Retirement Planning, 401(k) plan, & Financial Wellness Resources
  • Educational Assistance Program
  • Time off Policies (including sick leave, parental leave, and paid vacation)

*Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on job classification and length of employment

What Flowserve employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Flowserve

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

If a culture of excellence, innovation and ownership is what you're searching for, consider putting your experience in motion at Flowserve. As an individual contributor, or as a leader of people, your enterprise mindset will ensure Flowserve's position as the global standard in comprehensive flow control solutions. Here, your opportunity for professional development and industry leading rewards will be supported by our foundational commitments to the values of people first, integrity and safety. Thinking beyond opportunity and reward, at Flowserve, we are inspired by working together to create extraordinary flow control solutions to make the world better for everyone! Flowserve Corporation is a multinational company, and one of the largest suppliers of industrial and environmental machinery such as pumps, valves, end face mechanical seals, automation, and services to the power, oil, gas, chemical and other industries. Flowserve offers competitive pay, annual bonuses, medical benefits on day 1, generous paid vacation time, paid holidays, pension plan, 401(k) and many other excellent benefits. NOTE: Drop the last paragraph

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1997

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