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Research Development Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

CRH

Product Development Engineer

Bulls Gap, TN · On-site

Create test plans and coordinate in-house R&D testing of both systems and components during product development. * Work with execution engineer to ensure all required component information is ...

Abb Holdings Inc

Vice President R&D Engineering

Memphis, TN · On-site

$174K - $225K/yr

As the Vice President, R&D Engineering for the region, you will drive the innovation agenda, shape the technology roadmap, accelerate new product introductions, and foster a high-performance culture ...

ABB

Vice President R&D Engineering

Memphis, TN

$161K - $208K/yr

As the Vice President, R&D Engineering for the region, you will drive the innovation agenda, shape the technology roadmap, accelerate new product introductions, and foster a high-performance culture ...

ABB

Vice President R&D Engineering

Memphis, TN · On-site

$174K - $225K/yr

As the Vice President, R&D Engineering for the region, you will drive the innovation agenda, shape the technology roadmap, accelerate new product introductions, and foster a high-performance culture ...

Henpen Corporation

Development CHemist

Piney Flats, TN · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, engineering, and operations teams to successfully transition products from R&D into commercial production. * Investigate manufacturing and formulation issues ...

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All JobsResearch Development Engineer JobsResearch Development Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

Research Development Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$18.2K

$87.6K

$137.1K

How much do research development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development engineer in Tennessee is $87,649.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,300.00 and $106,200.00 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 Tennessee? For Research Development Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Development Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Research Development Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
Research Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Development Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,649 per year, or $42.1 per hour.
Product Development Engineer

Product Development Engineer

Magnera Corporation

Old Hickory, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Magnera rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview

Magnera's purpose is to better the world with new possibilities made real. For more than 160 years, the originating companies have delivered the material solutions their partners need to thrive. Through economic upheaval, global pandemics and changing end-user needs, they have consistently found ways to solve problems and exceed expectations. By bringing together these legacy companies, the distinct scale and comprehensive portfolio of products will bring customers more materials and choices. With a combined legacy of resilience, Magnera will build personal partnerships that withstand an ever-changing world.

Work in a cross-functional team of nonwoven material developers and engineers to deliver on agreed milestones for new product development projects.

Responsibilities

Work in a cross-functional team of nonwoven material developers and engineers to deliver on agreed milestones for new product development projects.

Ensure design, development, and introduction of new and improved products with higher value to consumer products.

Develop new products as defined by management, utilizing technology road maps, functional plans and other resources.

Deliver on project objectives in the initiation, design, development, and optimization of Nonwoven Fabrics/Laminates after receiving functional guidance.

Plan, conduct, coordinate and supervise lab and pilot studies with minimal supervision.

Lead product scale up and line trials and writes trial reports.

Develop and build laboratory capabilities for applications development.

Research all available raw materials which could lead to improved products and profitability.

Market analysis, cost comparisons/evaluations, competitor product and process assessment.

Develop and maintain an expert level knowledge of spunlace and other related nonwoven technologies and high-performance nonwovens and wipes supply chain.

Ensure protection of technologies, processes, materials, and products through appropriate use of patents and trade secrets.

Set priorities and keep momentum going on a mixed project portfolio including new products, raw materials, cost-out programs, technology platforms, and project timelines.

Respond quickly to shifting priorities without losing sight of longer-range strategic projects and goals.

Qualifications

At a minimum, either: a U.S. Bachelor's degree in Textile Engineering or a related science/engineering field, or the foreign degree equivalent and 2 years' experience in the job offered or a related occupation, OR, a U.S. Master's degree in Textile Engineering or a related science/engineering field, or the foreign degree equivalent.

Experience working in a laboratory or engineering role with natural and synthetic fibers finishes for non-wovens or textile developments.

Experience with lamination, embossing, calendering, and other converting processes.

Experience with Stage-Gate Process, Statistical Data Analysis, and Design of Experiments.

Experience with Products, Materials, and Federal regulations associated with surgical and infection prevention, primarily masks and facial protection.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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