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Research Development Engineer Jobs in California

O Positiv

Research & Development Manager

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, etc.), Food Science, Pharmaceutical Science or related field * 4-8+ years of experience working in product development, R&D, and/or regulatory affairs within the ...

Bolt Graphics

R&D Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$150K - $220K/yr

The R&D Engineer will perform in-depth research on high-performance computing algorithms, evaluate competitive approaches, and help translate complex mathematical concepts into computationally ...

Align Technology

Staff R&D Engineer-Algorithm

San Jose, CA · On-site

$210K - $288K/yr

Staff R&D Engineer-Algorithm Department: Research & Development Employment Type: Full Time Location: US-California-San Jose Compensation: $210,100 - $288,900 / year Description We are looking for a ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and ... Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred). * 6 ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and ... Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred). * 6 ...

Abbott

R&D Engineer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Title: R&D Engineer Location: Menlo Park, CA Duration: 12 Months 100% Onsite Experience: * plus 0-6 years of related work experience with a complete understanding of specified functional area, Skills:

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and ... Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred). * 6 ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and ... Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred). * 6 ...

JCW Group

R&D Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$60/hr

R&D Engineer - FPGA Prototyping (Contract) San Jose Metropolitan | Onsite | Full-Time | $60+/hr About the Role A global semiconductor technology company is hiring a contract R&D Engineer to work ...

New

Silvus Technologies

Principal R&D Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$180K - $250K/yr

THE OPPORTUNITY Silvus is seeking a Principal R&D Engineer who will report to the Vice President of Research & Development on the R&D team. The successful individual in this role will oversee and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsResearch Development Engineer JobsResearch Development Engineer Jobs in California

Research Development Engineer information

See California salary details

$19.7K

$95.3K

$149K

How much do research development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development engineer in California is $95,306.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Research Development Engineer jobs in California?

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

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

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

Research Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Development Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,306 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Research & Development Manager

O Positiv

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Who We Are
O Positiv Health is a Los Angeles-based women's health company on a mission to support women through every stage of life-from their first period to well beyond their last. Since launching in 2018, O Positiv has reshaped the women's health space, tackling long-overlooked issues with innovative, science-backed products and boldly breaking taboos along the way. Our growing portfolio spans PMS & hormone balance, vaginal & urinary health, digestion, menopause, and conception support-offering vitamins, supplements, and personal care products that women trust.
Today, O Positiv products are sold nationwide at Target, Walmart, CVS, Meijer, Amazon, TikTok Shop, and OPositiv.com. We're proud to hold the #1 Vaginal Probiotic nationwide and multiple top-performing products across major wellness categories. We are scaling fast and shaping the future of women's health. Our team combines an entrepreneurial spirit with a passion for innovation and a commitment to impact. Join us, and you'll have the opportunity to grow alongside a company that's making a real difference.
Your Role
The Research & Development Manager is responsible for supporting the execution of product development for both new product initiatives and portfolio maintenance efforts that accelerate O Positiv's growth. You will be part of the creation of OP's rapidly growing product line and new offerings in women's health, wellness and more.
The ideal candidate is an individual with a strong scientific research background, a high level of organization among competing priorities, and a natural curiosity with a willingness to learn. The Research & Development Manager will report to the VP of Research & Development and will work cross functionally with internal and external stakeholders to support innovation and execution of O Positiv's product roadmap.
Responsibilities and Duties
  • Bring innovative and differentiated products from concept to market that support our core customers' health goals and align with O Positiv's commitments / standards
  • Conduct ingredient research / literature reviews; identify novel ingredients and formats to explore / evaluate for product feasibility
  • Stay up to date to new trends in ingredients (vitamins, minerals, herbs, etc.) relevant to OP's product roadmap and concept designs
  • Substantiate claims by composing comprehensive summaries of clinical research that support product claims
  • Manage project coordination in tracking, expediting, and facilitating the progress of each product's development through the product's launch date
  • Assist with the artwork development process to proof and ensure proper routing and compliance to regulatory requirements
  • Provide scientific support on marketing campaigns, landing pages, and other customer-facing literature
  • Provide feedback on samples submissions and ensure formulations meet OP's specifications, are efficacious and fall within budget requirements
  • Support the reformulation of existing products to ensure products continue to be differentiated and meet marketing and customer expectations

Qualifications and Skills
  • Experience:
    • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent work experience in Science (e.g. Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, etc.), Food Science, Pharmaceutical Science or related field
    • 4-8+ years of experience working in product development, R&D, and/or regulatory affairs within the functional foods, supplements, or skincare industry
    • Exceptional expertise in technical research including ingredient pathology, project management, and vendor relationship management
  • Interpersonal:
    • Strong leadership & communication skills: listen, mentor, and teach by example
    • Thrives in fast-paced environments
    • Strong project management and prioritization skills
    • Ability to manage multiple moving pieces and lead different groups of individuals
    • Adaptable to new technology and innovations
    • Thoughtful and self-reflective, willingness to learn and adapt
    • Team-player, hard-working, organized, and goal-oriented
    • Excitement for startups and building from the ground up

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
Hours and Compensation
The anticipated base compensation range for this role will be $135,000 - $160,000 annually. Compensation will be commensurate with the candidate's experience and local market rates.
  • Job Type: Full-time
  • Pay based on prior experience
  • Position will be based out of Santa Monica, Los Angeles - in person (Mon-Thurs in office/Friday remote

Benefits & Perks
  • Flexible PTO, Sick Days, and Wellness Days
  • Monthly Social Hours
  • Medical, Vision, and Dental Coverage
  • 401K with matching
  • $50/month Fitness Reimbursement + Up to $1,800 in annual wellness benefits
  • An environment of collaboration, high performance, & respect amongst all employees and managers

Click here to view our Applicant Privacy Policy.
O Positiv is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status.
O Positiv believes in the power of building a diverse and culturally inclusive team. We seek candidates from all backgrounds to join our teams. We're driven to build a workplace based on inclusive behaviors and equitable systems, where all employees can bring their authentic selves, feel engaged, and share their perspectives as a valued member of O Positiv.

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