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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 ...

GDH

Lead Development Engineer

Springdale, AR · On-site

$65 - $70/hr

Role Summary A senior-level Lead Development Engineer responsible for guiding complex software ... Research emerging technologies and provide recommendations for continuous improvement. * Contribute ...

Cooperidge Consulting Firm

This key technical role leads the research, development, and scale-up of advanced composites and ... D. in Engineering or Materials Science is required . Experience * Minimum of five (5) or more years ...

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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 Jul 2, 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, and why are they important?

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,855 per year, or $38.4 per hour.
Research and Development Engineer - Plastics Manufacturing - Base Salary to 110k/year - Little Rock,

Research and Development Engineer - Plastics Manufacturing - Base Salary to 110k/year - Little Rock,

AllSearch Professional Staffing

Little Rock, AR

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Research and Development Engineer - Plastics Manufacturing - Base Salary to 110k/year - Little Rock, AR

  • Our client, a well-established global manufacturing organization, is seeking a Research and Development Engineer to support new product development, product testing, prototyping, and continuous improvement initiatives within an industrial plastics manufacturing environment. This position will work in a technically advanced laboratory setting supporting product innovation, mechanical testing, material analysis, and manufacturing process improvement.
  • This is an onsite position with a flexible Monday-Friday day shift schedule in a state-of-the-art manufacturing and engineering lab environment.

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct research, testing, analysis, and validation for new and existing industrial plastic products
  • Support product development, prototyping, and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Design, model, and modify components and products using 3D CAD software
  • Develop and execute laboratory and mechanical testing procedures
  • Analyze product performance, testing data, and material characteristics
  • Prepare technical reports, testing summaries, and engineering documentation
  • Maintain laboratory notebooks and technical records supporting product development and patent documentation
  • Assemble, install, and test products, prototypes, and mechanical components
  • Operate, maintain, and calibrate laboratory and analytical testing equipment
  • Collaborate with Quality, Manufacturing, Production, and Product Management teams regarding product performance and process improvements
  • Ensure products and processes meet company and regulatory standards
  • Support manufacturing process validation and product quality initiatives
  • Provide technical support for existing and newly developed products
  • Participate in project planning, scheduling, and progress reporting
  • Assist with technical training and knowledge transfer initiatives
  • Travel occasionally to manufacturing facilities and customer locations as needed

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field
  • 3+ years of Research and Development (R&D) Engineering experience within industrial product manufacturing environments
  • Experience supporting mechanical systems, product development, product testing, or manufacturing engineering initiatives
  • Experience using mechanical and material analytical testing equipment including calipers, micrometers, gauges, and related measurement tools
  • Experience with laboratory testing, product validation, and technical documentation
  • 3D CAD modeling experience using NX, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar software
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office including Excel, Word, and Outlook
  • Ability to travel approximately 15-20% to manufacturing facilities and customer locations

Compensation:

  • Base salary in the 85k – 110k/year range
  • Bonus potential eligible, up to 15%
  • Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
  • 401k with company match
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
  • Educational assistance and career advancement opportunities
  • Technically advanced laboratory environment with prototyping, 3D printing, and machine shop capabilities
  • Stable global organization with continuous improvement and sustainability initiatives

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