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Research Development Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Medtronic

R&D Engineer I - On-site

Memphis, TN · On-site

Medtronic CST As an Associate R&D Engineer , you will support the development of medical device products for spine surgery and biologics, with a focus on bone grafting technologies, graft delivery ...

Medtronic

R&D Engineer I - On-site

Memphis, TN

Medtronic CST As an Associate R&D Engineer , you will support the development of medical device products for spine surgery and biologics, with a focus on bone grafting technologies, graft delivery ...

Medtronic

R&D Engineer I - On-site

Memphis, TN · On-site

Medtronic CST As an Associate R&D Engineer , you will support the development of medical device products for spine surgery and biologics, with a focus on bone grafting technologies, graft delivery ...

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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 2, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,649 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

Carbon Fiber Composites Design & Process Development Engineer

Napakiak Ventures

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Company Overview:
Napakiak Environmental and Construction (NEC) is a leading provider of information technology, technology development, and environmental and construction services, specializing in Federal and Commercial projects. Our company is committed to delivering high-quality solutions that meet stringent regulatory standards and client requirements.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a highy motivated and experienced Carbon Fiber Composites Design & Process Development Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and manufacturing process improvements of carbon fiber composite and parts and vessels. In this role, you will drive both research and high-volume production initiatives, bridging the gap between innovative concept development and efficient manufacturing for advanced composite systems.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Design and develop carbon fiber composite parts and vessels, ensuring optimal strength-to-weight rations and durability.
  • Perform mechanics of materials and structural analysis of composite systems using ANSYS or other advanced simulation tools.
  • Experience in translating layup design into bulk anisotropic composite property estimates.
  • Develop, validate, and optimize composite manufacturing processes - from tooling and fixture design to layup, curing, and machining - to meet rigorous quality and throughput goals.
  • Lead R&D initiatives as well as high-volume production efforts, seamlessly transitioning concepts to production-scale applications.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including design, materials science, quality, and production to select composite systems and validate performance.
  • Create detailed work instructions, process documentation, and quality protocols that ensure consistency and adherence to industry standards.
  • Identify opportunities for continuous improvement, applying lean manufacturing and statistical process control methodologies.
  • Mentor junior engineers and technicians, and provide technical leadership during process troubleshooting and corrective action implementation.
Required Qualifications:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree (BS) in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a minimum of 10 years' experience, or a Master's degree (MS) or higher with at least 5 years' relevant experience.
  • Demonstrated expertise in carbon fiber composite design and the mechanics of composite materials.
  • Proven experience in structural analysis, particularly with simulation tools such as ANSYS or equivalent.
  • Extensive background in developing and improving composite manufacturing processes in both R&D and high throughput production environments.
  • Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Advanced understanding of composite processing techniques (e.g., autoclave curing, resin infusion, precision layup) and quality assurance methodologies.
  • Experience with CAD/CAM software for tooling and fixture development.
  • Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles or Six Sigma practices.
  • A proactive, hands-on approach with strong analytical and technical aptitude. 

Napakiak Environmental and Construction (NEC) is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

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