ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Research Development Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Staffingine LLC

Sr. R&D Engineer

Franklin Park, IL · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

Job Title: Sr. R&D Engineer Job Location: Franklin Park, IL Job Type: Full-Time * Be a subject matter expert in processing of plastic materials for consumer packaging * Provide expertise and ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsResearch Development Engineer JobsResearch Development Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Research Development Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$19.4K

$93.6K

$146.3K

How much do research development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development engineer in Illinois is $93,580.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,100.00 and $113,400.00 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 Illinois?

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

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

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

Research Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Development Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,580 per year, or $45 per hour.

Principal Research and Development Engineer

Basler Electric Company

Highland, IL • On-site

$131 - $150.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Principal Research and Development EngineerDescription

Plans, conducts, and directs engineering research and development projects of major significance requiring advanced knowledge of electric power systems. Originates solutions to power systems issues and applies new and unique techniques. Attends conferences, makes presentations, and interfaces directly with customers regarding product and/or applications development. Must have good communicative and coordinative skills to supply technical advice and counsel to other professionals and management. May represent the company in outside discussions.

Reports to: Manager of Research and Development Engineering

  • Develop new concepts and proposals for advanced electrical power systems protection and control.
  • Assist customers and other engineers in performing simulations and power systems studies.
  • Develop detailed Engineering specifications and proposals, including protection and control algorithms.
  • Design protection and control systems, including writing code for embedded applications.
  • Develop protection and control models, algorithms, and/or proposals as required to support the project estimating and quoting phases for products used in power systems.
  • Assist in establishing design criteria to meet customer requirements for new products.
  • Direct and/or test design concepts via simulation or with a prototype and having design reviews as necessary.
  • Direct and/or record design test data.
  • Have periodical review of total design concept.
  • Write theory of operation.
  • Proficient with the simulation tools used in the industry.
  • Represent Power Systems engineering to various divisions as well as externally to customers, government agencies, professional organizations, and/or the general industry in which Basler Electric serves.
  • Actively participate in industry organizations in support of and to promote Basler Electric and its target industries and markets.
  • Must be capable of supervising and coordinating other engineers and technicians as assigned to a particular project.
  • Travel as necessary to develop or support business opportunities, new product solutions, technology, existing products, and application expertise.
  • Other duties as required or assigned.
Requirements
  • BSEE degree or equivalent.
  • 10 years’ experience in electrical power systems protection and control design and/or analysis.
  • Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedures.
  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
Contact

Basler Electric welcomes employment applications received directly from interested candidates. We prefer that you submit your resume in Microsoft®Word or Adobe®PDF format.

Basler Electric Company
Human Resources
12570 Route 143
Highland, IL 62249-1074

Tel: +1 618.654.2341, ext. 251
Fax: +1 618.654.2351

Basler offers a comprehensive benefits package which offers: Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision, Life, and AD&D insurance; a 401k plan; paid leaves for Vacation, Holiday, Sick, Jury Duty, Bereavement; tuition reimbursement. All benefits are subject to eligibility requirements.

Compensation

We anticipate filling the Principal R&D Engineer position with an expected compensation range of $131,000 – $150,500. We are open to reviewing additional candidates with more or less experience and the pay range may differ if filled at a different level. Our pay ranges are determined by job, responsibility, and location. Starting pay and job title are based on location and job-related factors such as candidate experience, training, knowledge, and skills.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply