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Research Development Engineer Jobs in California

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 ...

Johnson & Johnson

Staff R&D Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

Learn more at Job Function: R&D Product Development Job Sub Function: R&D Mechanical Engineering Job Category: Scientific/Technology All Job Posting Locations: US331 CA Irvine - 31 Technology Dr We ...

Vishay

R&D Engineer MOSFET

San Jose, CA

Defining, implementing and/or maintaining R&D strategy, guidelines, systems and services for VISHAY Aligning and ensuring implementation of R&D budgets, monitors R&D programs, and allocates resources.

AOSense, Inc.

R&D Engineer

Fremont, CA

We are seeking an R&D engineer who specializes in compact and robust mechanical and optical design, assembly, and testing. As a hands-on R&D Engineer at AOSense, you will work with physicists and ...

AOSense, Inc.

R&D Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

We are seeking an R&D engineer who specializes in compact and robust mechanical and optical design, assembly, and testing. As a hands-on R&D Engineer at AOSense, you will work with physicists and ...

Expert Staffing West

R&D Engineer

Carson, CA · On-site

Description Applies research theories, principles, statistics, and models when conducting ... Works with engineering and shop personnel in fabrication of prototype products and development of ...

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Research Development Engineer information

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$19.7K

$95.3K

$149K

How much do research development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 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 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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $500,000 or more annually. High compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, especially in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

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.

Do R&D engineers make good money?

Research Development (R&D) engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, industry, and location. They often have specialized skills in engineering, research, and problem-solving, which can lead to higher compensation compared to other engineering roles. Advanced degrees and certifications can also influence earning potential.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial or executive positions, or possessing rare technical expertise and certifications.

What does an R&D engineer do?

An R&D engineer develops and tests new products, processes, or technologies to improve existing offerings or create innovative solutions. They often work in laboratories or research facilities, utilizing skills in engineering, design, and analysis, and may use tools like CAD software and testing equipment. Their work supports product development, requiring collaboration with cross-functional teams and adherence to safety and quality standards.
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:
What cities in California are hiring for Research Development Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Research Development Engineer job openings:
Research Development Engineer jobs near you
Research & Development Manager

Research & Development Manager

Kinder's

Walnut Creek, CA • On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 hours ago

Job description

BUILT ON FLAVOR. FUELED BY PEOPLE.
What's it like to work at Kinder's? Well, there's a lot of snacking and geeking out over what we all cooked over the weekend. Beyond that, there's also plenty of hard work. Because we don't just like flavor, we're obsessed with it.
With over 100 products sold nationwide, we're now a top-five brand in multiple flavor categories at Costco, Walmart, Whole Foods, and more. We're not your typical CPG company. Privately held and founder-led, we like to think of ourselves as a pirate ship in a sea of cruise ships. Our crew is adventurous and fearless. We chart our own course and chase big ideas to make food unforgettable.
As we expand globally and approach $1 billion in revenue, we need more smart-and-scrappy, flavor-obsessed people to come aboard. If you're looking for a place where you can see the real impact of your work... this is it! Every day, you'll be part of a journey to add flavor to millions of meals and lives.
What We Are Looking For:
At Kinder's, we're passionate about creating food that brings people together. The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved products across retail, club, and foodservice channels. This role will drive product formulation, process development, and innovation from concept through commercialization, ensuring every product meets Kinder's high standards for taste, quality, and scalability.
This is an exciting opportunity to play a hands-on role in a growing, values-driven food brand - partnering cross-functionally to deliver consumer-loved innovation that fuels Kinder's continued success.
What You'll Be Doing:
Lead Product Development
  • Support the end-to-end product development process - from concept ideation to launch - ensuring alignment with brand priorities, timelines, and cost objectives.

Drive Innovation & Continuous Improvement
  • Identify and execute opportunities for innovation, renovation, and cost optimization across Kinder's portfolio, leveraging emerging ingredients, technologies, and process improvements.

Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Partner closely with Operations, Marketing, Culinary, and Supply Chain to translate consumer insights into technically feasible, scalable, and commercially viable products.

Technical Execution & Scale-Up
  • Support formulation work, pilot plant trials, and production scale-ups to ensure successful transfer from bench to manufacturing.
    Troubleshoot issues and optimize for quality and consistency.

Project Management
  • Manage multiple projects concurrently, ensuring milestones, deliverables, and communication are clear and on track.
    Maintain visibility to leadership through status updates and documentation.

Regulatory & Quality Alignment
  • Collaborate with Quality Assurance and Regulatory teams to ensure product compliance with ingredient standards, labeling requirements, and nutritional accuracy.

Team Collaboration & Development
  • Contribute to a collaborative, curious, and accountable culture within the R&D team while supporting the development of junior team members and technicians.

What You Bring to the Table:
Skills and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred).
  • 6-10 years of experience in food product development.
  • Proven success in CPG innovation; meat, sauces, seasonings, or condiments experience preferred.
  • Strong technical knowledge of formulation, ingredient functionality, sensory evaluation, and scale-up.
  • Excellent project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
  • Effective communicator and collaborator across multiple functions and levels.
  • Passion for great food and consumer-driven innovation.
  • MUST BE ABLE TO TRAVEL UP TO 20%

Personal Characteristics:
  • Results-oriented, hands-on leader who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
  • Collaborative and influential communicator who builds trust across teams.
  • Curious, resourceful, and solution-oriented with strong attention to detail.
  • Committed to quality, integrity, and continuous improvement.

Things About the Way We Work:
  • No two days here are the same.
  • We try to be good team members and good communicators, but we don't live by hierarchy and structure - everyone is a difference maker here.
  • We make a lot of decisions in the face of incomplete information - our team embrace ambiguity and tries to make good decisions fast rather than great decisions slow.
  • We believe our job is to take smart risk, not to eliminate risk.
  • We believe in growing our skills and becoming a better company with more managerial expertise, but we are an entrepreneurial company at heart.
  • We aren't trying to be average - we want to do exceptional things and we are willing to work hard to achieve them.

The expected starting salary range for this role is $130,000- $150,000 per year. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range based on the location of the role. The amount a particular employee will earn within the salary range will be based on factors such as relevant education, qualifications, performance and business needs.
SEASONED FOR SUCCESS:
  • No two days here are the same.
  • We try to be good team members and good communicators, but we don't live by hierarchy and structure - everyone is a difference maker here.
  • We make a lot of decisions in the face of incomplete information - our team embraces ambiguity and tries to make good decisions fast rather than great decisions slow.
  • We believe our job is to take smart risk, not to eliminate risk.
  • We believe in growing our skills and becoming a better company with more managerial expertise, but we are an entrepreneurial company at heart.
  • We aren't trying to be average - we want to do exceptional things, and we are willing to work hard to achieve them.
BENEFITS THAT BRING MORE TO THE TABLE:
We offer a range of total rewards that may include paid time off, 401k, bonus / incentive eligibility, equity grants, competitive health benefits, and other family-friendly benefits, including parental leave. Kinder's benefits vary based on eligibility and can be reviewed in more detail during the interview process.
OUR RECIPE FOR BALANCE:
We believe great culture starts with people. We're a people-first company built on connection, collaboration, and balance. Most of our work happens in the office to spark creativity and community, but we also offer flexibility so team members have the autonomy to work outside the office when needed to support their work-life balance and personal commitments.
WHERE EVERY INGREDIENT MATTERS:
Kinder's is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, gender, citizenship, marital status, religion, age, disability, gender identity, results of genetic testing, veteran status, as well as any other legally-protected characteristic. If you have a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act or similar law, and you need any accommodation during the application process or to perform these job requirements, please reach out to us at careers@kinders.com

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