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Research Development Process Engineer Jobs in Fort Collins, CO

As a WSD Fab Test Unit Process Engineer (TUPE), you will collaborate within the Fort Collins Fab test functional area interfacing with test, yield, integration, data tools, research and development ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

As part of the research and development (R&D) team, bridges the product development cycle from ... A working knowledge of high vacuum systems, ion beam and plasma processes is highly desirable. Must ...

As part of the research and development (R&D) team, bridges the product development cycle from ... A working knowledge of high vacuum systems, ion beam and plasma processes is highly desirable. Must ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 20, 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?

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:

What cities near Fort Collins, CO are hiring for Research Development Process Engineer jobs?

Cities near Fort Collins, CO with the most Research Development Process Engineer job openings:

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.

Mechanical Engineer II/III

Opterus Research and Development

Loveland, CO • On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

About Opterus:
Opterus Research & Development is an innovative aerospace company based in Loveland, Colorado, specializing in deployable space systems and high-strain composite structures. We combine cutting-edge composite materials, origami-inspired architectures, and elegant engineering to deliver lightweight, high-performance structural systems for commercial, defense, and scientific missions.
About the Position:
As a Mechanical Engineer II or III, you will help design and develop lightweight, high-performance deployable structures and integrated systems for spacecraft and lunar surface missions. This role is ideal for someone with a passion for aerospace mechanisms, composites, or deployable structures, and who thrives in a fast-paced, iterative environment.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Design and analyze deployable systems
  • Take ownership of developing structural components and mechanisms from initial ideation through prototyping, qualification, and production
  • Create CAD assemblies and documentation using SolidWorks to produce detailed models, build documentation, and mechanical drawings
  • Support hardware assembly and integration by performing hands on work in a cleanroom environment to ensure precise and reliable system builds
  • Test and validate structural components by executing performance tests, analyzing results, and confirming flight readiness
  • Iterate and prototype designs frequently, characterizing performance, documenting findings, and refining concepts based on test data
  • Collaborate across engineering and production teams to meet quality, schedule, and budget goals while ensuring alignment throughout the project lifecycle
  • Solve complex engineering challenges by adapting quickly, pivoting when needed, and proposing innovative solutions to unforeseen issues
  • Provide mentorship for junior Mechanical Engineers
  • Perform additional engineering duties as required to support mission and program success

Qualifications:
  • BS in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related engineering field
  • Mechanical Engineer II: 2+ years experience
  • Mechanical Engineer III: 5+ years experience
  • Experience with spacecraft design, deployable structures, and/or composites strongly preferred
  • Demonstrated creative problem-solving and engineering intuition
  • Proficiency in GD&T and standard analysis practices
  • Fluency in CAD (SolidWorks preferred)
  • Strong communication and organizational skills
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
  • US citizen or permanent resident required

Compensation and Benefits:
  • Flexible hybrid schedules (9/80 or 10/80) with at least two in office days per week
  • Opterus covers 100% of employee premiums and 70% of dependent premiums
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, Life & AD&D
  • 401(k) with 4% company match
  • 9 paid holidays
  • Mechanical Engineer II: $90,000-$118,000
  • Mechanical Engineer III: $114,000-$140,000