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Research And Development Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

VB Spine

Development Engineer

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

As a Development Engineer in our R&D function within the Spine division, you'll perform implant and instrumentation design work while actively participating on multi-functional teams to support ...

VB Spine

Sr. Development Engineer

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

As a Senior Development Engineer - VB Vision in our R&D function within the Spine division, you'll play a key role in the development of advanced VB Vision platforms, working on mechanical and ...

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All JobsResearch And Development Engineer JobsResearch And Development Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Research And Development Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$22.6K

$109.3K

$171K

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development engineer in Washington, DC is $109,336.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,700.00 and $132,500.00 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 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.

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 and knowledge of engineering principles. It can offer good job stability, opportunities for advancement, and involvement in cutting-edge projects, making it a promising career choice for those interested in innovation and problem-solving.

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 does a research and development engineer do?

A research and development engineer designs, develops, and tests new products, processes, or technologies to improve existing offerings or create innovative solutions. They often work with scientific principles, use tools like CAD software, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring concepts from idea to prototype or production. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of engineering fundamentals are essential in this role.
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Research And Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research And Development Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,336 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Research and Development Engineer

Hepburn and Sons, LLC

Manassas, VA • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

About Hepburn and Sons

Hepburn and Sons LLC is a trusted advisor to the American maritime industry and the Department of Defense. We deliver expert advisory, engineering, and technology transition services with a warfighter-first focus. Built on a foundation of integrity, we honor handshakes as rigorously as contracts and place trust at the center of every decision and customer relationship. Our team bridges the gap between research & development and operational impact. Join us in applying intellectual rigor and passion for meaningful work to solve today’s most critical defense challenges.

The Opportunity Overview

As a Research and Development Engineer at Hepburn and Sons LLC, you will be joining innovators to lead technology development, grow our engineering capabilities, and support our customers in the Defense industry – integrating technology for our warfighter capabilities. You will be welcomed into a group with diverse expertise and engineering backgrounds that are dedicated to mentor and support our entire work staff at all levels. 


  • Provide analysis of electrical and electromagnetic effects on military ships
  • Develop and integrate models of naval vessels and maritime systems, working alongside other prestigious industry teammates
  • Support designs of power and energy survivability systems on military ships
  • Assist in the development of test events and test strategy of military equipment in the lab and in the field, provide analysis of test results
  • Develop Modeling and simulation approaches to enhance testing event, enhance test strategies and de-risk maritime electric system vulnerabilities.  Among others, these are technologies you will have opportunity to model
    • Navigation system
    • Electrical power distribution
    • Ship combat systems
  • Engage in digital engineering, modeling and simulation (M&S) including various software platforms and a model-based systems engineering (MBSE) approach for acceleration and continuity of systems engineering design
  • Verify and validate technologies against military performance requirements and standards to support military concept of operations (CONOPS)
  • Perform technology demonstrations, qualification programs, requirements development, system design integration, design space exploration or analysis of alternatives studies
  • Participate and present at conferences, symposiums, and exhibitions
  • Up to 20% travel

  • BS degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or Physics
  • Experience in one of the following and preferred familiarity with the remaining: power systems, power electronics, sensors, advanced manufacturing, functional materials for electrical systems, or model-based systems engineering
  • 5 or more years of engineering experience
  • Active DoD Secret Clearance (or ability to obtain and maintain one)
  • Experience using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software
  • Documented experience and demonstrable skills should be within the electromagnetic and electrostatic domains. 
  • Working knowledge of 3D modeling software

Preferred Qualifications

  • MS degree preferred
  • Writing experience with white papers, publications, and/or proposals
  • Experience with R&D engineering and technology development

Salary range (subject to experience and qualifications)- $80,000 - $100,000

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