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Research Development Engineer Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Uponor North America

R&D Engineer

Little Rock, AR · On-site

Bachelor's degree in an Engineering field (preferably mechanical, electrical, industrial, or materials) * Minimum of 3-4 years of research and development experience or equivalent * Project ...

Uponor North America

R&D Engineer

Little Rock, AR · On-site

Bachelor's degree in an Engineering field (preferably mechanical, electrical, industrial, or materials) * Minimum of 3-4 years of research and development experience or equivalent * Project ...

Tyson Foods

Lead Development Engineer

Springdale, AR · On-site

$90K - $119K/yr

Research and Development: * Keeping up to date with the latest industry trends and technologies to ... Programming (expert in multiple languages or software tools) * Expert in multiple front-end and ...

Tyson Foods

Lead Development Engineer

Springdale, AR

$90K - $119K/yr

Research and Development: * Keeping up to date with the latest industry trends and technologies to ... Programming (expert in multiple languages or software tools) * Expert in multiple front-end and ...

Koch Industries

Product Development Engineer

Conway, AR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this highly visible engineering position, you will join a team of professionals who are ... tech R&D model shop, manufacturing and senior leadership teams * Design and develop new ...

New

Tyson Foods

Senior Development Engineer (Palantir)

Springdale, AR · On-site

$108K - $142K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Senior Development Engineer is an experienced professional who leads software development ... Research and Development: Keeping up to date with the latest industry trends and technologies to ...

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All JobsResearch Development Engineer JobsResearch Development Engineer Jobs in Arkansas

Research Development Engineer information

See Arkansas salary details

$16.5K

$79.9K

$124.9K

How much do research development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development engineer in Arkansas is $79,855.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,100.00 and $96,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Research Development Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, problem-solving, and experimental design, typically supported by at least a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, data analysis tools, prototyping equipment, and sometimes certifications like Six Sigma or PMP can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, creativity, and effective collaboration and communication skills help set top performers apart. These skills are crucial for innovating, efficiently developing new products or processes, and ensuring successful project outcomes in dynamic R&D environments.

What is a research development engineer?

A Research Development Engineer is a professional who combines engineering principles with research skills to design, develop, and improve products, processes, or technologies. They often work in research and development (R&D) departments, collaborating with scientists and engineers to turn innovative ideas into practical solutions. Their responsibilities may include conducting experiments, analyzing data, prototyping, and overseeing product testing. Research Development Engineers play a crucial role in driving innovation and keeping companies competitive in their industries.

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

AspectResearch Development EngineerProduct Development Engineer
Primary FocusInnovating and developing new technologies or materialsDesigning and improving existing products for market readiness
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D centersDesign labs, manufacturing facilities
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering or ScienceBachelor's or Master's in Engineering or related field
Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, manufacturingConsumer electronics, automotive, industrial products

Research Development Engineers focus on creating new technologies and conducting experiments, while Product Development Engineers work on transforming these innovations into market-ready products. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate, but their core objectives differ: innovation versus product realization.

What are some common challenges faced by research development engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Research Development Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing innovative research with practical product development, managing project timelines with evolving requirements, and effectively communicating findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Overcoming these challenges typically involves strong project management skills, a collaborative approach with cross-functional teams, and ongoing professional development to stay updated with new technologies. Building clear documentation and maintaining open lines of communication within the team can also help ensure project objectives are met efficiently.

What are popular job titles related to Research Development Engineer jobs in Arkansas?

For Research Development Engineer jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Development Engineer jobs in Arkansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Development Engineer jobs in Arkansas are:

Research Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Development Engineer job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,855 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

Director of Research & Development

EmergencyMD

Fort Smith, AR • On-site

$140 - $190/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and driven Director of R&D to lead the research anddevelopment efforts of our firearms product portfolio. This leadership role will be responsible forbuilding and guiding a high-performing R&D team based in Fort Smith, AR, with fullaccountability for the design, testing, and launch of innovative firearm systems.


The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in product design and development,project management, and proven leadership abilities, with a demonstrated history of takingproducts from concept through to production. This position is critical to driving our strategicgrowth through technological innovation and operational excellence.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead and develop the Fort Smith-based R&D team, including recruiting and developingtop engineering talent and fostering a collaborative, innovative culture.

  • Oversee the design, development, and testing of new firearms and related technologies,ensuring products meet safety, performance, and regulatory requirements.

  • Provide technical leadership and vision to guide the development of next-generationfirearms platforms.

  • Manage multiple concurrent R&D projects using proven project managementmethodologies to meet schedule, cost, and performance targets.

  • Collaborate with Product Management, Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to ensure smooth product launches.

  • Establish and maintain test protocols and performance validation standards for newdesigns.

  • Maintain awareness of industry trends, competitive products, and emergingtechnologies.

  • Drive a continuous improvement mindset within the R&D team, focusing on innovation,efficiency, and product excellence.

  • Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and international regulationsrelated to firearms development and testing.

  • Lead the development and maintenance of drawing control processes.


Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Advanced technical degreeor MBA is a plus.

  • 10+ years of progressive experience in product design and development.

  • Proven track record of successfully leading design and R&D teams, with strong people management and leadership skills.

  • Ability to develop a deep understanding of firearms systems, ballistics, materials, manufacturing processes, and regulatory standards (e.g., ATF, ITAR).

  • Strong experience in project management tools and techniques; PMP certification andSolidWorks PDM experience is a plus.

  • Demonstrated ability to bring new products to market from concept through full-scale production.

  • Exceptional communication, organizational, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

  • Experience in 3-D CAD design, focusing on SolidWorks, and other engineering analysissoftware.

  • Experience in ANSI-Y-14.5 drawing terms and tolerances.

  • Experience in DFM in a Lean environment.


Additional Qualifications:

  • A solid leadership style based on the development and support of those you lead.

  • A passion for metric driven results.

  • A team focused approach to design and development which leverages feedback andinput across the organization.

  • Excellent interpersonal skills providing clear communication at all levels.

  • Exceptional product life cycle management skills.

  • Proven success of project management through documentation and KPIs.

  • An ability to prioritize and pivot based on internal and external customer demands.

  • Strong ethics, integrity and leadership qualities that inspire trust and confidence from alllevels.

  • An established history of mentoring, motivating and developing individuals.

  • A Cultural fit built around engagement, empowerment and servant leadership.

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