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Research Development Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

SM-Energy Company

Senior AI R&D Engineer - AAET

Houston, TX · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

SM Energy is seeking a hands-on AI R&D Engineer to explore, evaluate, and prototype emerging AI capabilities ahead of the mainstream. This individual contributor role sits in a small, two-person R&D ...

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VAM USA

R&D Test Technician

Houston, TX

Collaborating with R&D engineers to provide real-time insights during testing phases. * Following OSHA regulations and company safety standards while maintaining a clean, organized, safe, and ...

Raytheon

Sr. Manufacturing Development Engineer

Houston, TX

$86K - $118K/yr

With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and ... As a Sr. Manufacturing Development Engineer you'll lead and coordinate projects and improvements ...

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Research Development Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$19.1K

$92.2K

$144.2K

How much do research development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development engineer in Houston, TX is $92,223.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $111,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Research Development Engineer jobs in Houston, TX?

For Research Development Engineer jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Development Engineer jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Development Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:

Research Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Development Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,223 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

Sr. R&D Engineer (Water Technologies)

210 Lummus Technology LLC-Corp

La Porte, TX

$98K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

The Sr. R&D Scientist/Engineer is responsible for designing and executing experimental pilot plant studies to develop new or improved technology, processes and applications for water and wastewater treatment at Lummus Technology. In addition to developing new technology, the scientist/engineer also provides support on treatability studies performed for clients to determine effectiveness treatment solutions for specific water sources, treatability testing studies/proposals, commercial designs, commercial plant start-up & operation. This position reports to the R&D organization and interfaces primarily with Lummus' Water Business Unit. Key Responsibilities Main responsibility of this position is to manage the water and wastewater pilot plant program, with the pilot plant located at Lummus' R&D facility in Laporte, Texas. Co-responsible for the Design of Experiments (together with the Zimpro Technology Manager) and/or other business units. Work with Zimpro team to support development of new innovations for the suite of technologies. Host clients for lab/pilot plant tours through the facility. Responsible for coordinating and executing pilot plant runs by working with Maintenance, Operations and Global Analytical groups within the Lummus R&D organization. Need to communicate objectives of each run, assist with planning logistics and provide daily supervision of this 24/7 operation. Execute the program consistent with HSE requirements, including following the 'Management of Change' process, generating written operating instructions for the pilot plant, participation in Process Hazard Analysis meetings, and other PSM-related activities. Responsible for data analysis and reporting progress/results on daily or weekly or monthly basis (as needed) and issuing test reports. Guide the Maintenance/Operations groups through pilot plant modification projects with necessary support being provided by process/mechanical engineering and analytical if needed. Communicate effectively with Zimpro Technology Manager and with R&D's Maintenance, Operations, and Global Analytical teams to ensure all required resources are available to execute the planned development programs. Skills, Knowledge & Expertise Bachelor or advanced degrees (preferred) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or Biology and >10 years relevant experience in water and wastewater applications. Strong background in fundamental research principles, experimental design and application to engineering designs. Strong knowledge of wastewater treatment techniques and principles. Experience operating wastewater treatment equipment or performing biological treatability tests would be beneficial. Excellent technical, written, and verbal communication skills in English; able to communicate effectively to technical and non-technical stakeholders and team members. Proven ability to prioritize and manage projects and operations and deliver on their objectives. Exposure to clients in the sales and proposal phase as well as execution phases of pilot campaigns. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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