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Research And Development Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Appleton, WI

Kosmos

Mechanical Engineer

Green Bay, WI

$90K - $130K/yr

... the development and implementation of innovative design solutions. This position offers a ... Conduct research to identify new materials and technologies for product improvement * Perform ...

Faith Technologies

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Menasha, WI

$113K - $136K/yr

This position will lead the development of engineering scope and direction for projects within the ... Research, create, and update engineering design standards to promote best practices. * Supports the ...

Faithtechnologies

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Menasha, WI

$113K - $136K/yr

This position will lead the development of engineering scope and direction for projects within the ... Research, create, and update engineering design standards to promote best practices. * Supports the ...

Faithtechnologies

Mechanical Engineer

Menasha, WI

The Mechanical Engineerwill be responsible for designing and/or specifying mechanical and electro ... Experience in the design and development of electrical components * PLC programming experience ...

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All JobsResearch And Development Mechanical Engineer JobsResearch And Development Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Appleton, WI

Research And Development Mechanical Engineer information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$70.2K

$109.4K

$137.5K

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development mechanical engineer in Appleton, WI is $109,425.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,500.00 and $123,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Research And Development Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectResearch And Development Mechanical EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentLabs, R&D departments, innovation-focused settingsDesign offices, manufacturing facilities, product development teams
Industry UsageResearch institutions, product innovation, prototype developmentProduct design, manufacturing, engineering firms

Research And Development Mechanical Engineers focus on creating new products and improving existing ones through experimentation and innovation. Mechanical Design Engineers primarily work on designing and developing mechanical components and systems for manufacturing. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, their work environments and objectives differ significantly, with R&D engineers emphasizing innovation and prototyping, and design engineers focusing on detailed product development.

What does a research and development mechanical engineer do?

A Research and Development (R&D) Mechanical Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing new mechanical devices or systems. They use engineering principles to create prototypes, improve existing products, and solve technical challenges. Their work often involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, conducting experiments, and analyzing data to enhance product performance and efficiency. R&D Mechanical Engineers play a key role in driving innovation within industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods.

What are some common challenges faced by research and development mechanical engineers during the product development cycle?

Research and Development Mechanical Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing innovative designs with manufacturability and cost constraints, meeting tight project deadlines, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. They may also need to iterate prototypes quickly based on feedback from cross-functional teams, including design, testing, and manufacturing. Collaboration and effective communication are essential for addressing unexpected technical issues and integrating new technologies into existing systems.

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

To thrive as a Research and Development Mechanical Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and typically a bachelor’s or master’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools (like ANSYS), and knowledge of prototyping and testing methodologies are essential. Creativity, effective communication, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for innovating and collaborating on complex projects. These skills and qualities enable engineers to develop innovative solutions, improve products, and maintain a competitive edge in technology-driven industries.
What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Mechanical Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI? For Research And Development Mechanical Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research And Development Mechanical Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Research And Development Mechanical Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI are:
Research And Development Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research And Development Mechanical Engineer job openings in Appleton, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $109,425 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Research and Development Engineer

Reynolds Consumer Products

Appleton, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Reynolds Consumer Products rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
Join Reynolds Consumer Products...and Drive Your Career across a world of opportunities!
We currently have an opportunity for a Research and Development Engineer at our Manufacturing Facility in Appleton, WI.
Responsibilities
The Research & Development Engineer is responsible for the design, development, testing, and commercialization of new products, equipment, and manufacturing processes. This role coordinates and executes product and process development projects from concept through implementation, working closely with Manufacturing, Quality, Operations, Sales & Marketing, and external suppliers.
The successful candidate combines strong mechanical engineering fundamentals with hands-on problem solving, data analysis, and project execution skills. This individual will lead laboratory and manufacturing trials, support process scale-up activities, develop innovative solutions, and apply Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles to create practical, cost-effective designs that can be successfully implemented in production.
You Will Have the Opportunity to Make Great Things Happen!
Product & Process Development
  • Lead and support product and process development projects to meet business, customer, manufacturing, and quality objectives.
  • Design and develop mechanical components, tooling, equipment modifications, and manufacturing solutions using CAD software.
  • Create and maintain engineering drawings, specifications, test methods, and technical documentation.
  • Evaluate new technologies, materials, equipment, and manufacturing methods to improve product performance and operational efficiency.
  • Apply Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles to develop reliable, cost-effective, and manufacturable solutions.

Trial Planning & Execution
  • Plan, coordinate, and execute laboratory, pilot, and manufacturing-scale trials.
  • Analyze trial and production data to identify opportunities for process optimization, cost reduction, and product improvement.
  • Support product launches and process scale-up activities at manufacturing facilities.
  • Work closely with Production Scheduling and Operations teams to coordinate trials and equipment modifications while minimizing production disruption.
  • Assist with the design, implementation, and analysis of statistically designed experiments and process controls.

Technical Support & Collaboration
  • Provide engineering support to manufacturing facilities during startup, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Collaborate with Quality, Operations, Maintenance, Procurement, Sales & Marketing, and external suppliers to solve technical challenges and implement improvements.
  • Research and evaluate supplier technologies, equipment, and materials to support product and process development efforts.
  • Develop and deliver training, procedures, and documentation for new equipment, processes, and operating practices.

Innovation & Documentation
  • Ensure technical work, trial results, and project findings are properly documented and communicated.
  • Support intellectual property development through idea generation, documentation, invention disclosures, and patent activities.
  • Maintain awareness of emerging manufacturing technologies, materials, design methods, and industry best practices.

Safety & Compliance
  • Perform all work in a safe manner that protects employees, consumers, and the environment.
  • Support compliance with applicable safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.

You Will Love It Here If...
  • You listen, learn, and evolve
  • You thrive in a fast-paced environment
  • You put safety first, always
  • You are passionate about collaboration, teamwork, and achieving shared goals
  • You believe in treating all people with respect, operating ethically, and growing a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace
  • You are committed to improving our impact on local communities and creating positive experiences

Qualifications
Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related Engineering discipline.
  • 2-5 years of experience in product development, manufacturing, process engineering, equipment design, or related engineering roles.

Experience
  • Proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred).
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Preferred
  • Experience in plastics, packaging, extrusion, converting, consumer products, or manufacturing environments.
  • Experience supporting manufacturing trials, process scale-up, and equipment implementation.
  • Experience with flow simulation, finite element analysis, or other engineering analysis tools.
  • Knowledge of statistical analysis, Design of Experiments (DOE), and process control methodologies.
  • Knowledge of Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles.
  • Experience with PDM/PLM systems and technical documentation control.

Competencies
  • Results Driven - Effectively executes projects and achieves business objectives while balancing quality, timing, and cost considerations.
  • Critical Decision Making - Uses technical expertise, data analysis, and sound judgment to solve problems and make informed decisions.
  • Customer Focus - Understands consumer and customer needs and incorporates those insights into product and process development.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration - Builds strong working relationships across functions and collaborates effectively to achieve shared goals.
  • Communication - Communicates complex technical information clearly and effectively to technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Innovation - Demonstrates curiosity, creativity, and initiative in identifying opportunities and developing new solutions.
  • Ownership & Accountability - Takes responsibility for project outcomes and proactively drives work to completion.
  • Strategic Thinking - Balances immediate project needs with long-term product, technology, and business objectives.

Want to know more? Check out our website or connect with us on LinkedIn!
Apply today to join a fast-growing innovative company!
Not a good fit but know someone who is? Please refer them!
Local candidates only, no relocation assistance available
Join Reynolds Consumer Products and Drive Your Career across a world of opportunities!
For applicants or employees who are disabled or require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, you may request assistance by emailing us at Recruitment@ReynoldsBrands.com.
No recruiter calls or emails please.
RCP affords equal employment opportunities to applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, disability status, sex, marital status, protected veteran status, pregnancy, national origin, genetics, genetic information, parental status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. RCP conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.

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