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Research Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Design Engineer

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

... research, and hands-on engineering experience are welcome. * Strong SolidWorks and 2D CAD skills ... Understanding of mechanical engineering fundamentals and engineering drawings. * Familiarity with ...

Meta

Battery Product Design Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$144K/yr

Across Infrastructure, Reality Labs, Robotics, and Research, our teams tackle complex challenges in ... As a Mechanical/Product Design Engineer, you are an established and highly productive technical ...

CSW Industrials

Design Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$70K/yr

Execute research, design and development projects in accordance with project specifications ... Create Engineering Change Orders (ECOs), part specifications, provide technical data, installation ...

RFA Engineering

Mechanical Design Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com ) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Research, design, develop, manufacture, and test tools, engines, machines and other mechanical ...

SpaceX

Harness Design Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

HARNESS DESIGN ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's satellite technology and launch ... Perform R&D investigations and trade studies to push wire harness design to new boundaries in terms ...

SpaceX

Harness Design Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA

$115K - $140K/yr

HARNESS DESIGN ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's satellite technology and launch ... Perform R&D investigations and trade studies to push wire harness design to new boundaries in terms ...

Jamco America Inc

Seats Design Engineer Lead

Everett, WA · On-site

$115K - $175K/yr

Exempt Summary This position is responsible for leading Seat Design Engineers in the research, design and substantiation of the mechanical seat design within the Seat Engineering department utilizing ...

Chipton Ross

Hardware Design Engineer 2

Del Rey, CA · On-site

$88.56/hr

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES As a Hardware Design Engineer 2, you will join our diverse team and be responsible for research, design, and development of digital hardware products. Your expertise in ...

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Research Design Engineer information

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How much do research design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for research design engineer in the United States is $106,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $104,000.00 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 are hiring for Research Design Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Research Design Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Research Design Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Research Design Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Research Design Engineer jobs?

For Research Design Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Research Design Engineer jobs near you

Design Engineer

Wood Dale, IL • On-site

Sterling Engineering Inc.
See more jobs at Sterling Engineering Inc.external

$60K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Design Engineer

Location: O’Hare Area, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $60,000–$75,000 per year

Position Overview
We are seeking a Design Engineer to join a stable manufacturing organization specializing in custom cast-in heaters and heating elements. This role is ideal for a mechanical engineering professional who enjoys SolidWorks, product design, and hands-on manufacturing.
The Design Engineer will develop and modify products, create manufacturing drawings, support customer requirements, and work closely with manufacturing to bring designs from concept through production.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design and modify custom heaters, components, and assemblies using SolidWorks.
  • Create detailed 2D manufacturing drawings with dimensions, tolerances, and GD&T.
  • Develop and maintain BOMs and engineering documentation.
  • Support prototypes, testing, design validation, and product improvements.
  • Perform basic engineering calculations related to stress, loading, thermal considerations, and materials.
  • Work with manufacturing to troubleshoot design and production issues.
  • Support engineering changes, casting simulation, and CAD/CAM activities.
  • Work with Sales and customers to understand requirements and support new projects.
  • Manage multiple projects while meeting customer and production requirements.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
  • 0–3 years of engineering experience; internships, co-ops, university research, and hands-on engineering experience are welcome.
  • Strong SolidWorks and 2D CAD skills.
  • Understanding of mechanical engineering fundamentals and engineering drawings.
  • Familiarity with machining, fabrication, casting, or mechanical assembly.
  • Strong problem-solving, communication, and attention-to-detail skills.
Preferred: Experience with casting simulation, CAD/CAM, CNC programming, sheet metal, electrical circuits, or hands-on manufacturing.

Equal Employment Opportunity
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to legally protected characteristics under applicable federal, state, or local law.