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Research Design Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

... research suppliers and perform competitive benchmarking/reverse engineering • Demonstrate entrepreneurial thinking • Use market research to influence design decisions • Have a passion for ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Holland, MI · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to support the design and ... research and analysis on materials, processes, and equipment as needed Collaborate with ...

Intermediate Substation Design Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site +1

$97K - $124K/yr

Tasks may include assistance with research, design, concept development, calculations, and ... Perform professional electrical engineering work relating to the design of substation physical ...

Intermediate Substation Design Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$97K - $124K/yr

Tasks may include assistance with research, design, concept development, calculations, and ... Perform professional electrical engineering work relating to the design of substation physical ...

Research, recommends, and implements or improves new and/or existing products, processes, materials ... Inteva has global resources for design, engineering, manufacturing and customer service for ...

Research, recommends, and implements or improves new and/or existing products, processes, materials ... Inteva has global resources for design, engineering, manufacturing and customer service for ...

Creating and/or refining engineering documentation, such as the Design History File and the Device Master Record. * Following, learning, and contributing to R&D procedures, such as design controls ...

Job Title: Machine Design Engineer The Machine Design Engineer designs and develops custom ... Research, quote, and select appropriate components for automated equipment, balancing performance ...

With deep domain expertise and extensive engineering capabilities, Invio partners with clients from early-stage product design and R&D through to full-scale automation. Customers value Invio ...

ECU Design Engineer Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is seeking an experienced ... Oversee the advanced research of current practices and future trends related to E/E architecture ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Wixom, MI · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

... like Industrial Quality & Research, Medical Technology, Consumer Markets and Semiconductor ... Analyze Engineering, Automation, and Sales teams to define and design required fixtures and ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Wixom, MI · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

... like Industrial Quality & Research, Medical Technology, Consumer Markets and Semiconductor ... Analyze Engineering, Automation, and Sales teams to define and design required fixtures and ...

... and technology research centers. Additional information about the company can be found at ... Joseph Tech Center in MI. The Cycle Design Engineer Analyst will be a member of the Laundry ...

Design Release Engineer

Pontiac, MI · Hybrid

$40 - $45.75/hr

... Research Assistant, or related role. OR Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field, and three (3) years of experience as a Design ...

Showing results 21-40

Research Design Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$34.1K

$96.2K

$124.4K

How much do research design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for research design engineer in Michigan is $96,192.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $94,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research design engineer?

A Research Design Engineer is a professional who develops and tests new product concepts, technologies, or processes, often in a laboratory or research environment. They bridge the gap between pure research and product development by applying engineering principles to design experiments, analyze data, and create prototypes. Their work is critical in advancing innovation within industries such as electronics, automotive, biotechnology, and more. Research Design Engineers collaborate with scientists, engineers, and product teams to turn novel ideas into practical solutions. They often document their findings and may contribute to patent applications or academic publications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research design engineer?

To thrive as a Research Design Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, strong analytical skills, and typically a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and common prototyping methods is essential, along with knowledge of industry standards. Creativity, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing innovative solutions and ensuring successful project outcomes in a competitive and evolving field.

What are some common challenges faced by research design engineers when transitioning prototypes to large-scale production?

A common challenge for Research Design Engineers is ensuring that innovative prototypes can be efficiently and cost-effectively scaled for mass production. This often involves collaborating closely with manufacturing teams to adapt custom or experimental components to standard processes, while maintaining performance and quality standards. Engineers must also address potential issues related to material availability, manufacturability, and compliance with industry regulations. Effective communication and flexibility are key to overcoming these hurdles and successfully bringing new designs to market.

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

AspectResearch Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, specialized research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, design certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, innovation centersDesign offices, manufacturing facilities, product development teams
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, research institutions, aerospace, automotiveManufacturers, engineering firms, product companies
Common Search & ComparisonResearch Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer

Research Design Engineers focus on developing new concepts, conducting experiments, and advancing technology through research. Mechanical Design Engineers primarily work on designing, analyzing, and improving mechanical components and systems for products. While both roles require engineering backgrounds, Research Design Engineers emphasize innovation and research, whereas Mechanical Design Engineers concentrate on practical design and implementation.

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Research Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Research Design Engineer job openings:

Design Engineer 2

Southfield, MI • On-site

eShocan
IT Services • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Location: Michigan Hub Southfield MI
Candidate Location Requirements:
Michigan: Seeking a more senior engineer who can work independently and design with limited oversight.
Bay Area: Open to less experienced candidates due to greater mentorship and coaching opportunities.
Equipment/Software XP Required:
CATIA V5/V6 (or equivalent CAD software)
Engineering analysis and design tools
Windows engineering environment
Typical Day in the Role
Purpose of the Team

The team develops industry-leading vehicle accessories and interior systems that enhance luxury, craftsmanship, functionality, ergonomics, performance, and overall customer experience.
Key Projects:
This engineer will support the design, development, validation, and launch of accessory products across interior, exterior, performance, and lifestyle categories, from concept through production release.
Typical Task Breakdown:
• Design and develop automotive accessory components and systems.
• Create CAD models, engineering drawings, DVP&R documentation, DFMEAs, validation plans, and engineering releases.
• Collaborate with Design, Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, Marketing, Program Management, and suppliers.
• Lead supplier reviews, feasibility assessments, sourcing support, and tooling discussions.
• Support prototype builds, validation testing, and production launches.
• Drive issue resolution, cost optimization, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Mentor junior engineers as needed.
What Makes This Role Interesting?
This role offers complete ownership of accessory development programs from concept through production. The engineer will have the opportunity to influence customer-facing products and directly see their work integrated into Lucid vehicles.
Unique Selling Points
End-to-end product ownership
Direct impact on customer experience and vehicle personalization
Collaboration with Design Studio and cross-functional vehicle teams
Opportunity to work on premium luxury automotive products
Exposure to a wide variety of materials, suppliers, and manufacturing processes
Creative freedom and innovation-focused environment
Candidate Requirements:
• 5+Years of Experience Required
• Minimum 5+ years of automotive interior components and systems development experience
Education
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Product Design Engineering, or related field
Top 3 Required Hard Skills
1. Automotive Interior Components Development 5+ years
Design, validation, release, and launch experience
2. Product Development Lifecycle Management 5+ years
Concept creation through production launch
3. CATIA V5/V6 or Equivalent CAD Tools5+ years
Looking for candidates who:
• Have experience owning smaller, high-impact products (cupholders, coolers, storage solutions, accessories, etc.)
• Enjoy shorter development cycles and rapid execution
• Can research suppliers and perform competitive benchmarking/reverse engineering
• Demonstrate entrepreneurial thinking
• Use market research to influence design decisions
• Have a passion for automotive products and customer experience
• Take feedback and obstacles as opportunities rather than roadblocks
• Are resourceful with budgets and cost targets
• Show creativity in solving design and manufacturing challenges
• Are automotive enthusiasts who care about delivering premium products