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Research Development Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Hepburn and Sons, LLC

R&D Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Overview Hepburn and Sons LLC is seeking a driven and technically versatile and innovative R&D Engineer to join our defense engineering team in Manassas, Virginia. In this role, you will be at the ...

Hepburn and Sons, LLC

R&D Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Hepburn and Sons LLC is seeking a driven and technically versatile and innovative R&D Engineer to join our defense engineering team in Manassas, Virginia. In this role, you will be at the forefront ...

Hepburn and Sons, LLC

R&D Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Overview Hepburn and Sons LLC is seeking a driven and technically versatile and innovative R&D Engineer to join our defense engineering team in Manassas, Virginia. In this role, you will be at the ...

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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 Jun 9, 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, 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 Virginia? For Research Development Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,743 per year, or $46 per hour.
Maritime Systems Research and Development Engineer - Springfield, VA

Maritime Systems Research and Development Engineer - Springfield, VA

The Pennsylvania State University

Reston, VA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 1 hour ago

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are searching for a Research & Development Engineer to join our Systems Engineering and Rapid Prototyping (SERP) Division of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State to serve as a Maritime Systems Project Manager at a customer site in Springfield, VA. This position will be embedded within a government program office, and requires prior Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC) experience in technology development and program management. The selected candidate will ultimately be performing inherently governmental functions with significant program management responsibilities.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You will:

  • Plan and manage elements of an applied undersea research and development program to improve existing capabilities or develop new capabilities to satisfy Naval Intelligence requirements

  • Utilize project management, systems engineering, contract management, and acquisition best practices to transition advanced undersea systems to a diverse set of mission partners

  • Advise Senior Officials on topics related to Unmanned Undersea Vehicles (UUVs), Autonomous Undersea Vehicles (AUVs), robotics, autonomy, power and energy, advanced sensors, and other advanced ocean systems

  • Maintain liaison with internal and external organizations to include other intelligence agencies, academia, laboratories, and operational forces to discuss requirements, technologies, and provide timely information to senior decision makers

  • Lead the development of acquisition plans and strategy, method of solicitation, most suitable type of contract, projected lead time, and contracting packages

Additional responsibilities of higher level positions may include:

  • Conduct and coordinate complex research and development efforts to develop new systems and systems of systems, execute technology transition agreements with internal and external mission partners, and transition developed technologies to DoD and IC mission partners

  • Lead a multidisciplinary team of highly technical performers to solve complex engineering, development, test, and evaluation challenges to satisfy DoD and IC requirements

Required skills/experience areas include:

  • Experience serving in a research & development engineering role for a DoD/IC technology development program required; experience serving as a program manager or project lead for a DoD/IC technology development program is preferred

  • Broad experience in one or more of the following technology areas; Undersea Vehicles, Autonomous Systems, Sensors (acoustic, EO/IR, Sensors (or other novel phenomenology), Electronic Warfare, Communication systems (acoustic, fiber, RF), Materials Science, Advanced Manufacturing, Systems Engineering

  • Active Top Secret clearance with eligibility for access to sensitive compartmented information (TS/SCI)

  • The ability to complete a counter-intelligence scope polygraph (post-hire)

Your working location will be fully on-site in Springfield, VA. The position requires occasional travel to State College, PA and other locations.

Hiring contingent upon government customer approval.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Principal Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 19+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 5+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Senior Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 14+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None

ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.All positions at ARL require candidates topossess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you will be notified during the interview process if this position is subject to a government background investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $109,300.00 - $219,600.00.**THE PROPOSED SALARY RANGE MAY BE IMPACTED BY GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENTIAL**

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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