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Research Development Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

VB Spine

Development Engineer

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

As a Development Engineer in our R&D function within the Spine division, you'll perform implant and instrumentation design work while actively participating on multi-functional teams to support ...

VB Spine

Sr. Development Engineer

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

As a Senior Development Engineer - VB Vision in our R&D function within the Spine division, you'll play a key role in the development of advanced VB Vision platforms, working on mechanical and ...

Eastman

Process Development Engineer

Fieldale, VA

The position will have responsibility as a liaison between R&D and manufacturing with a focus on ... via engineering and administrative solutions * Champion process capabilities and leverage ...

Eastman

Process Development Engineer

Fieldale, VA · On-site

The position will have responsibility as a liaison between R&D and manufacturing with a focus on ... via engineering and administrative solutions * Champion process capabilities and leverage ...

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All JobsResearch Development Engineer JobsResearch Development Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Research Development Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$19.8K

$95.7K

$149.7K

How much do research development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development engineer in Virginia is $95,743.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,800.00 and $116,000.00 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.
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What job categories do people searching Research Development Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Research Development Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Research Development Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Research Development Engineer job openings:
Research Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Development Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,743 per year, or $46 per hour.

Research and Development Engineer

Hepburn and Sons, LLC

Manassas, VA

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

About Hepburn and Sons

Hepburn and Sons LLC is a trusted advisor to the American maritime industry and the Department of Defense. We deliver expert advisory, engineering, and technology transition services with a warfighter-first focus. Built on a foundation of integrity, we honor handshakes as rigorously as contracts and place trust at the center of every decision and customer relationship. Our team bridges the gap between research & development and operational impact. Join us in applying intellectual rigor and passion for meaningful work to solve today’s most critical defense challenges.

The Opportunity Overview

As a Research and Development Engineer at Hepburn and Sons LLC, you will be joining innovators to lead technology development, grow our engineering capabilities, and support our customers in the Defense industry – integrating technology for our warfighter capabilities. You will be welcomed into a group with diverse expertise and engineering backgrounds that are dedicated to mentor and support our entire work staff at all levels. 


  • Provide analysis of electrical and electromagnetic effects on military ships
  • Develop and integrate models of naval vessels and maritime systems, working alongside other prestigious industry teammates
  • Support designs of power and energy survivability systems on military ships
  • Assist in the development of test events and test strategy of military equipment in the lab and in the field, provide analysis of test results
  • Develop Modeling and simulation approaches to enhance testing event, enhance test strategies and de-risk maritime electric system vulnerabilities.  Among others, these are technologies you will have opportunity to model
    • Navigation system
    • Electrical power distribution
    • Ship combat systems
  • Engage in digital engineering, modeling and simulation (M&S) including various software platforms and a model-based systems engineering (MBSE) approach for acceleration and continuity of systems engineering design
  • Verify and validate technologies against military performance requirements and standards to support military concept of operations (CONOPS)
  • Perform technology demonstrations, qualification programs, requirements development, system design integration, design space exploration or analysis of alternatives studies
  • Participate and present at conferences, symposiums, and exhibitions
  • Up to 20% travel

  • BS degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or Physics
  • Experience in one of the following and preferred familiarity with the remaining: power systems, power electronics, sensors, advanced manufacturing, functional materials for electrical systems, or model-based systems engineering
  • 5 or more years of engineering experience
  • Active DoD Secret Clearance (or ability to obtain and maintain one)
  • Experience using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software
  • Documented experience and demonstrable skills should be within the electromagnetic and electrostatic domains. 
  • Working knowledge of 3D modeling software

Preferred Qualifications

  • MS degree preferred
  • Writing experience with white papers, publications, and/or proposals
  • Experience with R&D engineering and technology development

Salary range (subject to experience and qualifications)- $80,000 - $100,000

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