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Research Development Process Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

GEON

Process Engineer

Seabrook, TX · On-site

The Role The Process Engineer is responsible for optimizing internal and external processes and ... Responsible for the activities related to the development of new processes including researching ...

CDI Engineering Services

Process Engineer

Deer Park, TX · On-site

Position Summary This position leads the development of project conceptual design (FEL 1/FEL 2), ... Responsibilities Execute process studies or detailed engineering analysis for projects that include ...

CDI Engineering Services

Process Engineer

Deer Park, TX · On-site

Position Summary This position leads the development of project conceptual design (FEL 1/FEL 2), ... Responsibilities Execute process studies or detailed engineering analysis for projects that include ...

Optimized Process Designs

Senior Process Engineer

Katy, TX · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Through our people, we have developed a strong, contribution motivated, team with a reputation for ... Lead process engineering on multiple projects with assistance from other Process Engineers * Mentor ...

Envirogen

Process Engineer

Kingwood, TX · On-site

Drive Applied R&D & Innovation: Formulate strategic testing frameworks, lead advanced laboratory ... Process engineering), backed by a strong foundation water systems. * Proven Track Record:

Envirogen

Process Engineer

Kingwood, TX · On-site

Drive Applied R&D & Innovation: Formulate strategic testing frameworks, lead advanced laboratory ... Process engineering), backed by a strong foundation water systems. * Proven Track Record:

Salamander Solutions

Process Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Process Engineer - Downhole Heater Manufacturing & Roll Reduction Operations Salamander Solutions ... Participate in PFMEA development, identifying process risks and implementing mitigation measures.

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All JobsResearch Development Process Engineer JobsResearch Development Process Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

Research Development Process Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$43.5K

$97K

$145.6K

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

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development process engineer in Houston, TX is $97,036.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,900.00 and $113,600.00 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 Houston, TX? For Research Development Process Engineer jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Development Process Engineer jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Research Development Process Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Research Development Process Engineer jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Research Development Process Engineer job openings:
Research Development Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Development Process Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,036 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Manager Research & Development (R&D) Lab

MetOx International, Inc.

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Empower Your Future: At MetOx International, we're pioneering the next era of energy security and abundance through breakthrough superconducting technology. As the Manager Research & Development (R&D) Lab, you'll lead the operation at the center of our innovation ecosystem, where new materials, manufacturing processes, and product concepts are transformed into scalable technologies. Your leadership enables the experimentation, validation, and technical execution that accelerate the commercialization of one of the world's most transformative energy technologies.
Based at our global headquarters in Houston, TX, the Manager Research & Development (R&D) Lab leads the daily operation of MetOx's Pilot Line and R&D laboratory, overseeing technicians, laboratory operations, equipment readiness, and engineering execution. Working closely with Process Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Equipment Engineering, Materials Science, Quality, and R&D, this role drives safe, efficient, and disciplined laboratory operations while enabling rapid experimentation, technology development, process scale-up, and the successful transfer of new manufacturing capabilities into production.
Laboratory Leadership
  • Leads the daily operation of MetOx's R&D characterization laboratory supporting process development, product development, failure analysis, and manufacturing support.
  • Supervises, coaches, and develops laboratory technicians while fostering a culture of safety, quality, accountability, technical rigor, and continuous improvement.
  • Establishes laboratory priorities, allocates resources, and balances competing engineering demands to ensure timely delivery of high-quality analytical results.
  • Builds laboratory capability through workforce development, cross-training, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Materials Characterization and Failure Analysis
  • Leads failure analysis to identify root causes of process, materials, and product performance issues using structured scientific problem-solving methodologies.
  • Oversees advanced materials characterization including SEM/EDS, ICP, metallography, optical microscopy, mechanical testing, and related analytical techniques.
  • Develops and improves characterization methods for high-temperature superconductors, thin films, and associated materials.
  • Correlates microstructure, composition, and defects with processing conditions and electrical performance to accelerate product development and improve manufacturing yield.
  • Evaluates analytical data, identifies trends, and communicates technical findings and recommendations to cross-functional engineering teams.

Superconductor Testing
  • Leads electrical characterization of HTS conductors, including transport critical current (Ic), in-field performance, and other superconducting measurements.
  • Develops robust, accurate, and repeatable test methods supporting R&D and manufacturing.
  • Applies analytical chemistry techniques including ICP, DSC, TGA, NMR, Karl Fischer titration, GPC, and HPLC to support materials characterization, process development, and root cause investigations.
  • Ensures test methods, laboratory equipment, and measurement systems produce reliable, accurate, and reproducible results.

Engineering Partnership
  • Partners with Process, Materials, Equipment, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to support development, sustaining engineering, and technology transfer.
  • Provides technical expertise and data-driven recommendations that support engineering decisions, process optimization, and manufacturing scale-up.
  • Ensures accurate sample tracking, data integrity, and technical documentation to support engineering and quality requirements.
  • Identifies opportunities to improve laboratory capability, throughput, and diagnostic effectiveness through new test methods, instrumentation, and process improvements.
  • Communicates complex technical findings clearly to multidisciplinary stakeholders and leadership.

Laboratory Operations
  • Maintains laboratory equipment, calibration programs, consumables, and supporting infrastructure.
  • Develops laboratory procedures, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and preventive maintenance programs.
  • Ensures compliance with safety, quality, environmental, and laboratory best practices.
  • Drives continuous improvement initiatives that enhance laboratory efficiency, analytical capability, and operational excellence.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Manufacturing Technology, or a related technical discipline. An advanced degree may be substituted for required experience on a year-for-year basis, depending on relevance and level.
  • Five years of engineering experience including prior experience in laboratory operations, pilot manufacturing, advanced manufacturing, or research and development.
  • Two years of experience leading technicians, operators, laboratory personnel, or other technical teams.
  • Experience supporting engineering development, manufacturing operations, or technology commercialization.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • PhD in Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Manufacturing, or a related technical discipline.
  • Experience in superconductors, semiconductors, advanced materials, thin films, coatings, batteries, energy technologies, or other advanced manufacturing environments.
  • Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing, 5S, or continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Experience with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), laboratory information systems, or process documentation systems.
  • Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DOE), Statistical Process Control (SPC), Failure Analysis, and structured root cause analysis methodologies.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
  • Demonstrated first-principles understanding of advanced characterization techniques, including the underlying physics, measurement limitations, sources of error, and interpretation of results.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and motivate technical teams in a fast-paced research, pilot manufacturing, or advanced manufacturing environment.
  • Strong understanding of laboratory operations, engineering development, and pilot-scale manufacturing processes.
  • Proven analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify operational challenges and implement practical, data-driven solutions.
  • Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement methodologies, and structured problem-solving techniques.
  • Strong organizational, planning, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Physical Demands: This position requires sitting at a desk and viewing a computer screen for extended periods while working or performing other office tasks. Ability to move around the office, including occasional standing, walking, and bending to retrieve documents, attend meetings, or use office equipment. Some light lifting may be required, up to 20 lbs.
MetOx is proud to offer competitive benefits including:
  • Health, dental, and vision available on the first day of employment
  • 401(k) match
  • Paid parental leave & adoption assistance
  • Educational reimbursement
  • And more!

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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