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Research And Development Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

PPL Corporation

$17 - $22/hr

Overview The PPL R&D Department is looking for PhD Engineering students from all engineering disciplines to begin in May 2026. We are looking for interns who are passionate about renewable energy ...

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Research And Development information

See Rhode Island salary details

$47.5K

$99.7K

$161.6K

How much do research and development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development in Rhode Island is $99,688.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $114,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is research and development (R&D)?

Research and Development (R&D) refers to the activities companies undertake to innovate and introduce new products or services. It involves researching market needs, creating new ideas, and developing prototypes or processes to bring those ideas to life. R&D is crucial for business growth, helping organizations stay competitive by improving existing products or inventing new ones. Professionals in this field often work in laboratories, engineering departments, or product design teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in research and development (R&D)?

A successful R&D professional typically possesses a strong background in scientific or technical disciplines, supported by relevant degrees such as a BS, MS, or PhD in fields like engineering, chemistry, or biology. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and project management tools, along with certifications like Six Sigma or PMP, is often required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills that help drive innovation and teamwork. These competencies are vital for developing new products, improving processes, and maintaining a competitive edge in fast-evolving markets.

What are typical challenges faced by professionals in research and development (R&D)?

Professionals in R&D roles often encounter challenges such as balancing innovative thinking with practical constraints like budget, timelines, and regulatory requirements. They must also navigate uncertainties related to experimental results and manage cross-functional collaboration with teams such as marketing, production, and quality assurance. Staying updated with the latest technological advancements and maintaining clear documentation throughout the development process are also crucial to success. Adaptability and strong problem-solving skills are essential to overcome these common hurdles and drive projects forward.

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

AspectResearch And DevelopmentProduct Development
FocusCreating new knowledge, innovations, and prototypesDesigning, building, and launching new or improved products
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research centers, R&D departmentsDesign studios, manufacturing facilities, project teams
Required CredentialsScience or engineering degrees, research experienceEngineering, design, or product management background
Industry UsageTech, pharmaceuticals, manufacturingConsumer goods, electronics, automotive

Research And Development focuses on generating new knowledge and innovations, often in labs or research centers. Product Development takes those innovations and transforms them into market-ready products through design, testing, and manufacturing processes. While R&D is about discovery, product development is about application and commercialization.

What degree do you need to work in research and development?

Research and development roles typically require at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, engineering, or technology. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or Ph.D., along with strong analytical skills and experience with laboratory tools or research methodologies.

What skills are needed for research and development jobs?

Research and development jobs require strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in scientific or technical methods. Knowledge of relevant tools, programming languages, or laboratory equipment, along with good communication and teamwork skills, are also important for success in R&D roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research And Development jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Research And Development jobs in Rhode Island are:

What are popular job titles related to Research And Development jobs in Rhode Island?

For Research And Development jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research And Development jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Research And Development jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Research And Development jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Research And Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Research And Development job openings in Rhode Island as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,688 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

Research & Development - PhD Engineering Intern

Providence, RI • On-site

PPL Corporation
See more jobs at PPL Corporationexternal

$17 - $22/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Internship

Re-posted 15 days ago

PPL rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Company Summary Statement As one of the largest investor-owned utility companies in the United States, PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL), is committed to creating long-term, sustainable value for our 3.5 million customers, our shareowners and the communities we serve. Our high-performing regulated utilities - PPL Electric Utilities, Louisville Gas and Electric, Kentucky Utilities and Rhode Island Energy - provide an outstanding experience for our customers, consistently ranking among the best utilities in the nation. PPL's companies are also addressing challenges head-on by investing in new infrastructure and technology that is creating a smarter, more reliable and resilient energy grid. We are committed to doing our part to advance a cleaner energy future and drive innovation that enables us to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 while maintaining energy reliability and affordability for the customers and communities we serve. PPL is a positive force in the cities and towns where we do business, providing support for programs and organizations that empower the success of future generations by helping to build and maintain strong, diverse communities today.Overview

The PPL R&D Department is looking for PhD Engineering students from all engineering disciplines to begin in May 2026. We are looking for interns who are passionate about renewable energy, including wind and solar, energy storage, green hydrogen, sustainability, carbon capture and other decarbonization technologies.

Ideal candidates will be based in Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, or Kentucky and would be interested in the potential of transitioning to full-time employment with PPL upon graduation. During the school year, students will work part time, but during the summer, the position will work on-site and may include travel to work on clean energy R&D projects at numerous locations across PPL Corporation including Allentown, Pennsylvania, Providence, Rhode Island, as well as Louisville and Lexington, Kentucky. While traveling, all expenses will be paid. 

Qualifications

Requirements

  • Available part time during the semester and full time during the Summer 2026 semester
  • Pursuing a PhD in Engineering from an ABET Accredited program. 
  • Minimum 3.00 GPA
Responsibilities
  • Plans and controls all activities so as to provide an accident-free work place.
  • Uses engineering and scientific principles to plan projects, collect and analyze data, and create professional reports.
  • Gathers, correlates, and analyzes data using established procedures.
  • Coordinates and communicates results and participation in research projects within applicable business units and prepares summaries of value and results to management.
  • Identifies opportunities for improvement and/or suggests improved methods.
  • Performs detailed and/or engineering assignments involving established calculations, tests and analysis.
  • Performs other duties as directed by management.
Employment Type: OTHER

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