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Research Development Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Amazon

Sr. Software Development Engineer, MLOPs

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$138K - $182K/yr

You'll work at the intersection of large-scale distributed systems and cutting-edge ML research ... development experience - 5+ years of programming with at least one software programming language ...

Amazon

Software Dev Engineer II, Prime Air

Seattle, WA · On-site

Prime Air is seeking an experienced Software Development Engineer who combines superb technical, research and analytical capabilities with a demonstrated ability to get the right things done quickly ...

Amazon

Software Dev Engineer II, Prime Air

Seattle, WA · On-site

Prime Air is seeking an experienced Software Development Engineer who combines superb technical, research and analytical capabilities with a demonstrated ability to get the right things done quickly ...

Amazon

HW Development Engineer, AFT-Inbound

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$139K - $184K/yr

You must be responsive, flexible, and able to succeed within a fast-paced, open collaborative R&D ... Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field - 2+ years of hardware design and ...

Adobe, Inc.

Software Development Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

Rapidly prototype ideas and concepts, and research the latest industry trends * Experiment with ... development cycle * A dedication to learning and sharing ideas with your fellow engineers * Mastery ...

Amazon

Software Dev Engineer II, Prime Air

Seattle, WA · On-site

Prime Air is seeking an experienced experienced Embedded Software Development Engineer who combines superb technical, research and analytical capabilities with a demonstrated ability to get the right ...

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All JobsResearch Development Engineer JobsResearch Development Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Research Development Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$22.8K

$110K

$171.9K

How much do research development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development engineer in Seattle, WA is $109,962.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,200.00 and $133,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research development engineer?

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 Seattle, WA? For Research Development Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Development Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Research Development Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Research Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Development Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,962 per year, or $52.9 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer, Supplier Development (Starlink)

SpaceX

Redmond, WA • On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
MANUFACTURING ENGINEER, SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT (STARLINK)
This is a high-profile, cross functional position that plays an integral role in enabling development and production flow of Satellites. You will work in close coordination with internal engineering and manufacturing departments as well as directly with suppliers to execute effective, creative and smart supply chain strategies to achieve production goals. With integration taking place in-house, our manufacturing engineers are able to see their assemblies come to life every day!
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Improve quality, cost, delivery, and capacity metrics for mechanical hardware used in the Starlink satellite systems
  • Collaborate with design, materials, and manufacturing engineers to gain an in-depth knowledge of piece part, assembly, metrology, and/or sub-system design intent
  • Support the procurement team to strategically source parts matched with supplier competencies by reviewing and assessing supplier manufacturing processes and quality systems
  • Create and define supplier technical and quality requirements based on customer and program requirements and expectations for NPI and production phases
  • Lead resolution of supplier quality issues through root cause analysis, while functioning as liaison between purchasing, engineering, production, and suppliers
  • Define product technical requirements, and ensure supplier compliance with these requirements
  • Implement and monitor the production part approval process (PPAP) with selected suppliers to enable rate production
  • Analyze supplier quality and delivery metrics to identify trends and pinpoint systemic performance gaps and root causes to drive supplier improvement plans
  • Conduct independent research to identify potential new suppliers and capabilities in manufacturing and metrology
  • Identify and drive product & process improvements to lower part cost, reduce supply risk, eliminate potential defects, and improve cycle time
  • Effectively manage mission-critical supply chain by establishing excellent working relationships and regular lines of communication with suppliers
  • Demonstrate a strong sense of ownership, proactivity, technical excellence, creativity, self-direction, and courage
  • Collaborate with teams, lead projects, and continuously drive improvement in the supply base

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering or STEM discipline
  • 2+ years of experience in one of the following: manufacturing, supply chain engineering, supplier development/quality, or design engineering (internship experience is applicable)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Master's degree in engineering, business, or supply chain
  • Manufacturing experience in an area such as CNC, Injection Molding, Castings, etc.
  • Proven track record of taking ownership of projects, negotiating successfully to reduce costs, and influencing engineering customers to drive results
  • Knowledge of statistical techniques and methods (design of experiments, Six Sigma, etc.)
  • Proficiency in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GDT) principles and applications
  • Knowledge of metrology tools and techniques for measuring and characterizing mechanical parts
  • Knowledge of lean, production, and supply chain concepts
  • Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, time management, and organizational skills
  • Ability to act quickly in a fast-moving and high-stress environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Position is based in Redmond, WA and requires being onsite - remote work not considered
  • Must be willing to work long hours and weekends when needed to meet critical deadlines
  • Ability to travel: Up to 25-50% work week travel may be required
  • Valid driver's license

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Supplier Development Engineer/Level I: $100,000.00 - $115,000.00/per year
Supplier Development Engineer/Level II: $110,000.00 - $135,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

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