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Research Development Engineer Jobs in California

R&D Engineer

Fremont, CA ยท Hybrid

$80K - $110K/yr

E Ink is seeking an R&D Engineer that can apply fundamental engineering principles to support the design, development, testing, and optimization of chemical processes and systems. The Engineer will ...

R&D Engineer

Fremont, CA ยท Hybrid

$80K - $110K/yr

E Ink is seeking an R&D Engineer that can apply fundamental engineering principles to support the design, development, testing, and optimization of chemical processes and systems. The Engineer will ...

R&D Engineer, Materials

Huntington Beach, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

R&D Engineer Location: Huntington Beach, CA Compensation: $90,000 - $105,000 annually (depending on experience) About the Role SprintRay is redefining digital dentistry by offering the industry ...

R&D Engineer, Materials

Huntington Beach, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

R&D Engineer Location: Huntington Beach, CA Compensation: $90,000 - $105,000 annually (depending on experience) About the Role SprintRay is redefining digital dentistry by offering the industry ...

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 ...

Semiconductor R&D Engineer

Milpitas, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

We are seeking an R&D engineer with a strong experimental-science background to advance eProbe semiconductor inspection tools through hands-on characterization, data analysis, and algorithm ...

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 ...

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 ...

R&D Engineer

Fremont, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

E Ink is seeking an R&D Engineer that can apply fundamental engineering principles to support the design, development, testing, and optimization of chemical processes and systems. The Engineer will ...

We are seeking an R&D engineer with a strong experimental-science background to advance eProbe semiconductor inspection tools through hands-on characterization, data analysis, and algorithm ...

Do you want to help us build the DNA of tech.? We are seeking a world-class R&D Engineer to lead innovation in advanced MOSFET technologies. This role will drive next-generation device architecture ...

The VP, R&D leads the engineering organization and is responsible for building a robust innovation pipeline, aligning product roadmaps to strategy, and fostering a high-performance culture grounded ...

Showing results 41-60

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 2, 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:

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.

Process Development Engineer

Centrillion Technologies, Inc.

Palo Alto, CA โ€ข On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

At Centrillion, we are at the forefront of multiple cutting-edge fields in genetics and biotechnology, including spatial genomics, ultra long DNA sequencing, rapid on-chip sequencing, viral sequencing, genotyping, and synthetic biology. Our innovative technologies and advanced high density DNA chips are transforming the way researchers and scientists approach genomic discovery.

Our team of experts in science, engineering, and business is dedicated to making these breakthroughs accessible and affordable, and to unlocking the full potential of the genome. With our commitment to innovation and collaboration, we are leading the way in shaping the future of life sciences.

Join us at Centrillion and be a part of our mission to bring the power of genomics to the world. With opportunities for growth and advancement, a supportive and inclusive work culture, and the chance to work on exciting and impactful projects, Centrillion is the place for those passionate about genetics and biotechnology. Help us make a lasting impact on the world through our innovative technologies.

Centrillion is seeking a creative, energetic, resourceful Process Development Engineer to join a multidisciplinary research team developing new technologies. The successful candidate will work closely with our team of scientists and engineers to design and develop new technologies for genomics research and diagnostic applications.

Job Description:

· Direct research, development, testing and implementation of technologies and semi/automated manufacturing processes using integrated fluidic and microlithography platforms.

· Specification and procurement of manufacturing components, materials, reagents, and systems

· Evaluate performance of components and systems; and analyze/summarize data.

· Procure, calibrate and maintain pilot production tools, instruments & systems for automation.

· Coordinate operations in R&D and pilot operations

· Lead process development on lab scale, optimize best process flow and material system for optical performance and scalability

· Collaborate with scientists and engineers in other disciplines.

· Managing proof-of-concept projects by facilitating technical discussions, linking knowledge across multidisciplinary teams

· Provide operational support for downstream testing of manufactured products.

· Documentation of work; analysis of data; reporting/presenting results

· Ensure that all manufacturing engineering activities are accurately described in written documents which comply with cGMP or equivalent quality systems

· Participates in strategic planning to integrate research and development processes with both the unit and the Product Business Group's overall business plan

Requirements:

· BS/MS in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

· 2+ years relevant industry experience in manufacturing process development

· Strong working knowledge, and preferably hands-on laboratory experience in chemistry and materials science

· Experience in wafer manufacturing process development in semiconductor / microelectronics industry and clean room operations

· Working knowledge of technologies for nucleic acid synthesis, sequence analysis or diagnostics is a plus

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the United States on a permanent basis. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

The expected salary range for this position is between $70,000 to $85,000. Actual pay may be more or less than the posted range. Centrillion considers a variety of factors when determining base compensation, including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, education, position level and geographical location. These considerations mean actual compensation will vary. This position may also be eligible for annual bonus and equity grants, in addition to a full range of financial, health and wellness benefits, depending on the position offered.

Centrillion Technologies, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and we’re proud of our ongoing efforts to foster diversity & inclusion in the Individuals seeking employment at Centrillion are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, ancestry, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.