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Research Development Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Nightwing

Windows Vulnerability Research

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

Nightwing is seeking a highly skilled Windows Vulnerability Research (VR) Engineer to support advanced research, development, and exploitation efforts on Windows platforms. The ideal candidate will ...

Cmu

Business Development Manager

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

The Software Solutions Division (SSD) comprises a large part of the Software Engineering Institute (SEI), a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) operated by Carnegie Mellon ...

Metron

Research Scientist

Reston, VA

... the development of Metron tools. Projects typically involve developing advanced algorithms ... Programming experience in Java, C, C++, MATLAB, Mathematica and/or Python * Mathematical modeling ...

KBR

Radar Research Engineer

Chantilly, VA

Title: Radar Research Engineer KBR is looking for a Radar Research Engineer to join our team in ... Primarily, candidate conducts research SAR and MTI processing and algorithm development * Candidate ...

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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 Jul 23, 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 July 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.

Windows Vulnerability Research

Nightwing

Sterling, VA • On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Nightwing is seeking a highly skilled Windows Vulnerability Research (VR) Engineer to support advanced research, development, and exploitation efforts on Windows platforms. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise in low-level programming, vulnerability research, and exploit development, along with a strong background in secure software analysis.
Required Qualifications
In addition to meeting all baseline technical requirements for contractor technical personnel, the candidate must possess, at a minimum, the following:
  • Current TS/SCI with Poly Clearance
  • At least three (3) years of professional experience in each of the following:
    • Developing, testing, and debugging software in C
    • Developing, testing, and debugging software in C++
    • Developing, testing, and debugging software in Python
  • Demonstrated hands-on experience in:
    • Vulnerability Research (VR)
    • Reverse Engineering (RE)
    • Exploit development and exploitation
  • Proven expertise working with Windows operating systems, including internal architectures, debugging, and security mechanisms
Preferred Skills (Optional - if you want to add them later)
  • Experience with Windows kernel internals
  • Familiarity with common reverse engineering tools and debuggers
  • Understanding of modern exploit mitigations and bypass techniques
  • Experience supporting mission-critical or government systems

Please Note: This position is contingent upon award
Salary & Benefits
The salary associated with this position ($122,000-$253,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate's qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.
Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.
Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.

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