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Research Development Process Engineer Jobs in Fort Collins, CO

nLIGHT

Process Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

As a Process Engineer, you are a technical leader responsible for the end-to-end process architecture of our complex R&D systems. You will drive the implementation of advanced manufacturing ...

nLIGHT

Process Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

As a Process Engineer, you are a technical leader responsible for the end-to-end process architecture of our complex R&D systems. You will drive the implementation of advanced manufacturing ...

nLIGHT

Process Engineer

Longmont, CO

As a Process Engineer, you are a technical leader responsible for the end-to-end process architecture of our complex R&D systems. You will drive the implementation of advanced manufacturing ...

Antech Diagnostics

Process Engineer II

Longmont, CO · On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

A Process Engineer II understands appropriate documentation in a regulated environment ... Five to seven (5-7) years prior experience in an R&D or production environment with proven success ...

Kodak Alaris, Inc.

Process Engineer

Windsor, CO · On-site

... and product development experimentation; support product commercialization teams; and design ... Interface with hardware suppliers, industry technologists, and fabricators to research new ...

Agilent

Process Engineer

Frederick, CO · On-site

$67K - $105K/yr

Responsible for engineering, operations, and maintenance requirements for large scale process ... Lead for development of new processes and unit operations. Responsible for process modeling and ...

Agilent

Process Engineer

Frederick, CO

$67K - $105K/yr

Responsible for engineering, operations, and maintenance requirements for large scale process ... Lead for development of new processes and unit operations. Responsible for process modeling and ...

JBS USA

Principal R&D Scientist-Sausage

Greeley, CO

The ideal candidate is a highly experienced, hands-on expert in sausage formulation, processing ... Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Quality, Engineering, Regulatory, Supply Chain, and ...

JBS USA

Principal R&D Scientist-Sausage

Greeley, CO

The ideal candidate is a highly experienced, hands-on expert in sausage formulation, processing ... Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Quality, Engineering, Regulatory, Supply Chain, and ...

nLIGHT

Process Engineering Manager

Longmont, CO · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Summary: As a Process Engineering Manager, you are a technical leader responsible for the end-to ... Proven track record of applying DFM/DFSS to move R&D hardware into stable production. * Practical ...

nLIGHT

Process Engineering Manager

Longmont, CO · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Summary: As a Process Engineering Manager, you are a technical leader responsible for the end-to ... Proven track record of applying DFM/DFSS to move R&D hardware into stable production. * Practical ...

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All JobsResearch Development Process Engineer JobsResearch Development Process Engineer Jobs in Fort Collins, CO

Research Development Process Engineer information

See Fort Collins, CO salary details

$45K

$100.6K

$151K

How much do research development process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development process engineer in Fort Collins, CO is $100,580.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,700.00 and $117,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Research Development Process Engineer do?

A Research Development Process Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing processes in research and product development settings. They work to improve efficiency, quality, and scalability of new products or technologies by bridging the gap between research and manufacturing. Their role often involves collaborating with scientists, engineers, and production teams to ensure that innovative concepts can be effectively and safely produced at a larger scale. They also analyze data, troubleshoot problems, and implement improvements to meet regulatory and business requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research Development Process Engineer, and why are they important?

A Research Development Process Engineer requires a solid background in chemical or process engineering, problem-solving abilities, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or MATLAB), statistical analysis tools, and industry-specific certifications like Six Sigma are often expected. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure successful innovation, efficient process optimization, and seamless collaboration in research-driven engineering environments.

What are the main challenges Research Development Process Engineers face when transitioning projects from R&D to full-scale production?

One of the primary challenges Research Development Process Engineers encounter is ensuring that innovative processes developed in the laboratory can be effectively scaled up for manufacturing without compromising quality or efficiency. This often involves troubleshooting unforeseen issues, optimizing process parameters, and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams such as manufacturing, quality assurance, and supply chain. Navigating regulatory requirements and managing tight project deadlines are also common hurdles. Successful engineers leverage strong problem-solving skills and clear communication to bridge the gap between research concepts and practical, large-scale implementation.

What is the difference between Research Development Process Engineer vs Research Scientist?

AspectResearch Development Process EngineerResearch Scientist
Primary FocusDeveloping and optimizing manufacturing processes and workflowsConducting scientific research to generate new knowledge or products
Work EnvironmentIndustrial labs, manufacturing facilitiesAcademic or industrial research labs
Required CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in Engineering, Chemistry, or related fields; certifications in process improvementMaster’s or PhD in Science or Engineering
Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical, pharmaceutical industriesAcademic, R&D departments, biotech, pharmaceuticals

Research Development Process Engineers focus on translating research into scalable manufacturing processes, while Research Scientists primarily conduct experiments to advance scientific knowledge. Both roles require strong technical skills but differ in application and environment.

What are popular job titles related to Research Development Process Engineer jobs in Fort Collins, CO? For Research Development Process Engineer jobs in Fort Collins, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Development Process Engineer jobs in Fort Collins, CO look for? The top searched job categories for Research Development Process Engineer jobs in Fort Collins, CO are:
Research Development Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Development Process Engineer job openings in Fort Collins, CO as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,580 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

Process Engineer

nLIGHT

Longmont, CO • On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description
Location: Longmont, CO (onsite)
Experience: 5+ years of experience in leading process development in aerospace, defense, or high-power optics.
Minimum Education: Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Systems Engineering, Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
Compensation: $120,000-$170,000 depending on experience.
Who We Are
nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is one of the nation's leading developers of Directed Energy systems, which is a top modernization priority of the Department of Defense. Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing / Tracking (APT) solutions are designed to overcome the most difficult challenges facing the deployment of high energy laser solutions to the United States military and our allies. Located in Longmont, Colorado, nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is a vertically integrated business that leverages internal capabilities - from semiconductor device through target identification - to develop systems that are both high-performance and cost-effective. We continue to invest in capabilities, facilities and technology to bring leading edge HEL solutions to the warfighter. This is a great opportunity to work at a company that is on the leading edge of the HEL industry and provides a culture of excellence and commitment to delivering solutions to the warfighter and our country.
Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).
Summary:
As a Process Engineer, you are a technical leader responsible for the end-to-end process architecture of our complex R&D systems. You will drive the implementation of advanced manufacturing strategies, ensuring that first-of-its-kind hardware is built with world-class precision. We are looking for a Black Belt who can solve chronic yield issues, influence design through DFM, and provide the foundational leadership to build a department from the ground up.
All applicants must possess or be qualified to obtain a U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance. Preference will be given to candidates with an existing U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance. Further information on requirements to obtain a security clearance is available at: https://www.dcsa.mil/mc/pv/mbi/gicp/. Please review this information before applying.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop scalable manufacturing processes and documentation, working directly with design teams to ensure high-performance systems are optimized for repeatable builds.
  • Lead DFM/DFA and DFSS initiatives to optimize manufacturability, yield, and production readiness.
  • Set the standard for company-wide process control (SPC or other) and MSA/GR&R protocols, ensuring all test and assembly equipment are fully qualified and capable.
  • Solve the integration challenges by applying structured problem-solving methodologies to R&D hardware.
  • Manage the lifecycle of specialized manufacturing tooling, including initial requirement definition to final qualification and ongoing calibration & maintenance.

Required Experience / Capability:
  • Commitment to Excellence. Attention to Detail. Pride in Workmanship.
  • 5+ years of experience in process development in aerospace, defense, or high-power optics.
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt required, Black Belt preferred.
  • Proven track record of applying DFM/DFSS to move R&D hardware into stable production.
  • Practical expertise in process control (SPC or other), MSA, and Gage R&R.
  • Demonstrated ability to navigate ambiguity and establish formal production rigor.

Benefits Summary:
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
  • 11 paid Holidays
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Health (ACA Gold Plan), Vision and Dental Care paid by employer 100% for Employee and 75% for Dependents
  • Paid Family Leave, Short and Long Term Disability paid by employer 100%
  • Competitive 401k with company match and immediate vesting

Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is IllegalIf you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at [email protected]

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