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Research Development Process Engineer Jobs in Fort Collins, CO

Process Automation Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$115 - $134/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... software development, business systems improvement, or process automation. * Working, practical ... Experience with SQL, Python, JavaScript, or other scripting/programming languages. * Experience ...

New

Defect Engineer

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$102K - $133K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will collaborate with product development and backend assembly to characterize ... Pinpoint offending tools, processes, or facility infrastructure driving defect excursions.

Defect Engineer

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$102K - $133K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will collaborate with product development and backend assembly to characterize ... Pinpoint offending tools, processes, or facility infrastructure driving defect excursions.

As a front-line employee, you will have vital input on process development and continuous improvement efforts. Ability to provide engineers and other development team members with valuable feedback ...

Composites Engineer

Loveland, CO · On-site

$90K - $128K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

About Opterus Opterus Research and Development is an aerospace company specializing in advanced ... This role bridges engineering and manufacturing, focusing on analysis-driven design, process ...

Project Manager - R&D

Loveland, CO

$84K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Antech Diagnostics Research & Development. Projects will range in scope across new product ... Execute on multiple projects using PMO processes, tools, and templates Education and Experience

Senior Electrical Engineer

Fort Collins, CO

$106K - $138K/yr

... through the development process in defining system interactions and requirements. Core ... Experience in new technology research and development. * Skilled in determining the root cause of ...

Project Manager - R&D

Loveland, CO · On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Antech Diagnostics Research & Development. Projects will range in scope across new product ... Execute on multiple projects using PMO processes, tools, and templates Education and Experience

Working closely with engineering during time critical processes to ensure that the required ... NOTE: Research suggests that women and BIPOC individuals may self-select out of opportunities if ...

Development Technician, Inerts

Berthoud, CO · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Working closely with engineering during time critical processes to ensure that the required ... NOTE: Research suggests that women and BIPOC individuals may self-select out of opportunities if ...

Mechanical Engineer II/III

Loveland, CO · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Opterus Research & Development is an innovative aerospace company based in Loveland, Colorado ... About the Position: As a Mechanical Engineer II or III, you will help design and develop ...

Mechanical Engineer II/III

Loveland, CO · Hybrid

$90K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Opterus Research & Development is an innovative aerospace company based in Loveland, Colorado ... About the Position: As a Mechanical Engineer II or III, you will help design and develop ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

Lead Opto‑Electronics Engineer

Particle Measuring Systems

Niwot, CO • On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Do you want to be part of a business that genuinely values entrepreneurialism, innovation and individual accountability? We focus on our customers and are proud of the difference our technology makes. We partner with some of the biggest manufacturing companies in the world and our technical innovations are used to enhance well-known brands across multiple industries.
Title Lead Opto-Electronics Engineer
Department Engineering - Development
Location Niwot/Hybrid
Reports To Research Director
Your Impact
We are looking for a Lead Opto-Electronics Engineer who will contribute to the Engineering Research & Development team, ensuring alignment with company goals and delivery of innovative, reliable photonic detection solutions. This role is responsible for setting technical direction and providing expert guidance. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills; build collaborative relationships across functions; and maintain a commitment to professional excellence, quality, and continuous improvement.
The Role
The Lead Opto-Electronics Engineer is a senior technical leadership role focused on very low-level light detection, optical imaging, and advanced photonic instrumentation. They will lead the development of high-sensitivity detection systems with emphasis on maximizing signal-to-noise ratio through detector selection, amplifier architecture, low-noise circuit design, and precision PCB layout. They will serve as a subject matter expert in photonic detectors and interfacing circuitry for scientific instrumentation.
Job Responsibilities
  • Design and develop ultra-low-noise, high signal-to-noise analog front-end electronics for optical detection systems
  • Define requirements and specifications for photonic detectors (photodiodes, APDs, SPADs, SiPMs, and arrays) in collaboration with vendors
  • Lead development and evaluation of optical imaging and light collection systems for weak-signal environments
  • Analyze detector physics, noise sources, and system-level performance limitations
  • Research and evaluate emerging photonics and detector technologies to guide R&D direction
  • Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and knowledge transfer to engineering and research staff
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support advanced instrumentation development programs
  • Continuously evaluate processes for improvements in efficiency, quality, and performance
  • This role is not all-inclusive; responsibilities may evolve to meet organizational needs

Required Qualifications
  • MS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, Optical Engineering, or related field
  • Significant experience in:
    • Very low level light detection systems
    • Low noise amplifier design and circuit architecture
    • Precision PCB layout for sensitive analog systems
    • Optical detection and imaging systems
  • Fifteen (15) years of relevant experience
  • Deep understanding of photonic detector devices and associated electronics
  • Strong analytical, experimental, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to independently evaluate and guide advanced photonics technology directions
  • Strong communication, collaboration, and mentoring capability

Preferred Qualifications
  • PhD in a relevant technical discipline
  • Experience with photon counting and TCSPC (time-correlated single photon counting)
  • Broad knowledge of modern photonics and optical sensing technologies
  • Demonstrated success in maturing complex technologies into commercially viable products
  • Experience working in multidisciplinary industrial research environments
  • Strong innovation track record (publications, patents, or advanced R&D contributions)
  • Proven leadership and project execution experience

Work Environment & Physical Requirements
  • This is an "in-office" position 80-100% of the time. The remainder of the time you may work from home. These percentages are targets with the actual schedule to be determined in conjunction with the Manager's expectations for the position.
  • This role primarily operates in an office/lab/manufacturing environment. Must be able to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods of time
  • Occasional lifting of up to 20 lbs. independently may be required
  • This role involves occasional working in laboratory environments that include exposure to X-rays, radiation, and biological materials. All work is performed following established safety protocols and regulatory guidelines
  • Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role

Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive base salary range: $140,000 - 175,000 depending on experience
    • Our compensation philosophy: we offer competitive pay based on market data, including local, national, and industry benchmarks. For new hires, offers are generally within the established min- to mid-point of the range for the role, with flexibility to recognize experience, skills, and education. Our approach ensures fair pay internally while remaining competitive externally and allows room for growth.
  • Comprehensive benefits package:
    • Health coverage: medical, dental, vision, fsa, onsite clinic (CO employees), life insurance
    • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
    • Vacation, holiday, and leave policies
    • Tuition reimbursement, Employee recognition programs, Employee assistance programs

Particle Measuring Systems is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to building an inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone can thrive.
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