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Research Development Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Lead the research, development, writing, submission, and reporting of all foundation, corporate, and government grant proposals. * Develop and maintain a comprehensive grants calendar to ensure ...

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Research Development information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$51.2K

$107.4K

$174.1K

How much do research development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development in Modesto, CA is $107,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,800.00 and $122,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Research development roles at senior levels, such as chief research officers or senior scientists in biotech, pharmaceuticals, or technology companies, can reach or exceed $500,000 annually including bonuses and stock options. High-level executive positions in related fields may also achieve this compensation, often requiring advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Research development roles typically require specialized education or experience; however, high-paying jobs without a degree include sales managers, real estate brokers, commercial pilots, and certain skilled trades like electricians or plumbers. These positions often rely on experience, certifications, or licensing rather than formal degrees and can pay around $4,000 or more weekly with successful performance and commissions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Research Development position, and why are they important?

To excel in Research Development, a strong background in scientific research, project management, and grant writing is typically required, often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with research administration software, funding databases, and compliance systems such as IRB protocols is highly beneficial. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration skills help professionals effectively manage complex projects and secure funding. These abilities are essential to drive innovation, streamline research processes, and support institutional or organizational growth.

What are the typical responsibilities of a Research Development professional in an academic or corporate setting?

Research Development professionals are primarily responsible for identifying funding opportunities, assisting with proposal preparation, and supporting strategic research initiatives. They often work closely with researchers, faculty, or scientists to develop competitive grant applications, ensure compliance with guidelines, and facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations. The role may also involve coordinating workshops or trainings, managing research portfolios, and tracking emerging trends in funding. Working in teams and liaising with administrative departments is common, fostering a collaborative and dynamic work environment that supports both individual and institutional research goals.

What is a Research Development job?

A Research Development job focuses on identifying funding opportunities, developing research proposals, and fostering collaborations to support research initiatives. Professionals in this role assist researchers in securing grants, managing research projects, and aligning proposals with funding agency priorities. They often work in universities, research institutions, or corporate R&D departments to facilitate innovation and strategic growth. Strong communication, project management, and analytical skills are essential for success in this field.

What is a research and development job?

A research and development (R&D) job involves creating new products, processes, or technologies through scientific investigation and experimentation. R&D professionals often work in labs or technical environments, utilizing skills in analysis, innovation, and project management to improve or develop offerings for their organization.

Is R&D stressful as a career?

Research and Development (R&D) careers can be stressful due to tight deadlines, high expectations for innovation, and the need for problem-solving skills. The environment often requires long hours and adaptability, but it can also be rewarding for those passionate about scientific or technological advancement.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Development jobs in Modesto, CA? The most popular types of Research Development jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Research Development jobs in Modesto, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Research Development jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Research Development jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Research Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Development job openings in Modesto, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,393 per year, or $51.6 per hour.

Research & Development Mechanical Engineer

SPECTRA TECH, Inc.

Livermore, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

What your job will be like
The Telemetry (TM) team at the National Laboratories in Livermore, CA is seeking an R&D Mechanical Engineer to join our dynamic team! We are responsible for the design, development, testing, and qualification of multiple telemetry products across the ND portfolio. As a Mechanical Engineer, you will contribute to the mechanical design, conduct full product environmental testing, and verify requirements in support of qualification and product delivery. Your role will also include fixture development, documentation, hardware assembly, and managing fabrication processes. Our telemetry units are highly integrated electro-mechanical designs that must operate effectively in severe environments. Success in this role requires the ability to collaborate with a multi-faceted engineering team.
A successful candidate would have skills and experience with the following:
Mechanical Testing (Shock, Vibration, Temperature, Pressure, Humidity) and data analysis
Strong design skills in CAD (CREO preferred)
Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) knowledge
Experience designing for multiple manufacturing processes including machined aluminum, sheet metal and 3D printing (FDM)
Demonstrated strong documentation related to product development within a quality management system
Mentorship and leadership ability
Strong, methodical approach to problem-solving
Collaborate with stakeholders to understand and document system needs and requirements for Telemetry hardware
Work with a cross-functional team to establish long-term visions and short-term priorities for the mechanical engineering team
Utilize critical thinking to troubleshoot both mechanical and electromechanical issues, providing solutions within programmatic constraints
Engage in hands-on work with the Telemetry product through fabrication and testing activities
Use CREO and PDMLink to design and model the Telemetry product\
Perform and analyze fine element analysis (FEA) simulations for stress, strain, modal and thermal environments
Work with vendors and Sandia buyers to procure development parts
Work with MCAD and the product definition team to create and authorize product drawings
The position requires an ability to travel up to 25% to support the mission.
Due to the nature of the work, the selected applicant must be able to work onsite 100% of the time at the Livermore, CA facility.
Qualifications we Require
A Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline and five (5) years of directly relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of directly relevant education and engineering or scientific experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform independent research and development.
Demonstrated experience with Creo, Solidworks, or similar MCAD design tool.
Demonstrated experience developing or executing procedures associated with high value hardware (flight, customer deliverable, production).
Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q security clearance.
Qualifications we Desire:
The ideal R&D S&E Mechanical Engineer candidate for the National Laboratories will in addition possess the following:
Graduate degree in Mechanical Engineering or a highly related field where an independent research project was a graduation requirement (e.g., independent project, thesis, or dissertation).
Experience with mechanical engineering and product realization in the NNSA complex.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
Demonstrated breadth of knowledge in Mechanical Engineering and other engineering fields through school projects or work experience.
Demonstrated experience drafting drawings using GD&T per ANSI Y14.5.
Experience in roles that required leadership and/or mentorship.