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Research Development Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Job Title Head of Research Location McLean, VA 22102 US (Primary) Category Research, Development, and Engineering Job Type Full-Time Career Level Manager Education Bachelor's Degree Travel None ...

Ops Research Anst II

Reston, VA · On-site

$79K - $134K/yr

We're looking for a talented professional to contribute to the development and execution of policy research, recommendations, and interdepartmental coordination, ensuring policies align with ...

At SSD our teams engage in ground breaking software research, development, and transition for the US Government. Position Summary: Do you love working and collaborating with some of the brightest ...

Windows Vulnerability Research

Sterling, VA · On-site

$203K/yr

Nightwing is seeking a highly skilled Windows Vulnerability Research (VR) Engineer to support advanced research, development, and exploitation efforts on Windows platforms. The ideal candidate will ...

Windows Vulnerability Research

Sterling, VA · On-site

$203K/yr

Nightwing is seeking a highly skilled Windows Vulnerability Research (VR) Engineer to support advanced research, development, and exploitation efforts on Windows platforms. The ideal candidate will ...

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Research Development information

See Reston, VA salary details

$50.5K

$105.9K

$171.7K

How much do research development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development in Reston, VA is $105,902.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,600.00 and $121,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Research Development jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Research Development jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Development jobs in Reston, VA? For Research Development jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Development jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Research Development jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Research Development jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Research Development job openings:
NPS Sr. Research Development Engineer - 28662

NPS Sr. Research Development Engineer - 28662

HII

Arlington, VA

$120K - $124K/yr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Huntington Ingalls Industries rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 141 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

186th of 516 rated manufacturers


Job description

Requisition Number: 28662
Required Travel: 0 - 10%
Employment Type: Part Time/Hourly/Non-Exempt
Anticipated Salary Range: $120,640.00 - $124,800.00
Security Clearance: Ability to Obtain
Level of Experience: Senior
This opportunity resides with Global Security (GS). Mission Technologies' Global Security (GS) group comprises live, virtual, constructive (LVC) solutions; fleet sustainment; nuclear and environmental; and Australia business.
As a trusted partner to our military customers, HII designs, develops and operates the largest LVC enterprise that prepares warfighters for cross-domain battle. With advanced technologies to enable mission readiness, HII understands that preparation requires full coordination-not readiness in piece-parts.
For more than 40 years, the U.S. Navy has entrusted HII to maintain and modernize the vast majority of its fleet. With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines, surface combatants and aircraft carriers-HII ensures a high state of readiness.
HII supports the Department of Energy's national security mission through the management and operation of its sites, as well as the safe cleanup of legacy waste across the country. HII meets clients' toughest nuclear and environmental challenges.
Leadership Mindset at HII - Mission Technologies
Leadership at HII is a mindset, not a title. Through our Leadership Capability Framework, we define how every team member contributes to our mission and culture:
  • Know & Grow Your People - Commit to learning and supporting team success.
  • Build Relationships - Communicate openly, collaborate well, and build trust.
  • Take Ownership - Deliver on commitments and take pride in your work.
  • Customer First - Focus on the mission and those we serve.
  • Shape the Future - Bring ideas, curiosity, and continuous improvement.
  • Act with Urgency - Take initiative and follow through with purpose.

These capabilities guide how all employees contribute to our shared success across Mission Technologies.
Summary
HII is seeking a highly experienced Sr. Research Development Engineer to support the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Energy Academic Group in Monterey, CA. The selected candidate will serve as a senior technical contributor and research leader supporting advanced Mechanical and Systems Engineering initiatives focused on scientific research, technology innovation, operational energy, and emerging defense capabilities. This position supports the development and execution of complex research programs involving interdisciplinary collaboration across government, academia, industry, and Department of Defense stakeholders.
This position is temporary part time role and is expected to average 8 hours a week for 6 months
The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience leading scientific and engineering research efforts from concept development through implementation, including the formulation of theoretical models, systems integration approaches, and applied research methodologies supporting next-generation technologies and operational capabilities.
Key Job Responsibilities
• Lead and execute advanced Mechanical and Systems Engineering research initiatives supporting defense and operational energy objectives.
• Initiate, design, develop, implement, and manage scientific research projects involving complex engineering systems and emerging technologies.
• Develop theories, analytical models, and engineering methodologies used to understand, characterize, and organize complex natural and engineered phenomena into systematic research applications.
• Conduct applied research supporting potential new products, inventions, prototypes, and operational concepts.
• Coordinate interdisciplinary research efforts among faculty, engineers, scientists, government agencies, laboratories, and industry partners.
• Support intellectual property evaluations, invention disclosures, and development of patent applications associated with research outcomes.
• Lead technical assessments, modeling efforts, experimentation, and systems analysis activities.
• Prepare technical reports, white papers, briefings, publications, and research documentation for senior leadership and government sponsors.
• Support proposal development, research planning, technology transition strategies, and program execution activities.
• Provide technical mentorship and guidance to junior engineers, researchers, interns, and cross-functional project teams.
• Participate in strategic planning efforts related to advanced energy systems, mechanical engineering applications, systems engineering integration, and operational capability development.
• Interface with Department of Defense sponsors, academic institutions, warfare centers, and research organizations to align technical objectives and research priorities.
What you must have
  • 15 years relevant experience with Bachelors in related field; 13 years relevant experience with Masters in related field; 10 years relevant experience with PhD or Juris Doctorate in related field; or High School Diploma or equivalent and 19 years relevant experience.
  • Demonstrated experience leading scientific research and advanced engineering development initiatives.
  • Strong background in Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, research methodologies, modeling and simulation, or advanced technology development.
  • Experience supporting Department of Defense, Navy, federal laboratory, university, or research institution programs.
  • Knowledge of engineering analysis, systems integration, technology maturation, and research program execution.
  • Experience coordinating multidisciplinary technical teams and research activities.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to deliver executive-level technical briefings and documentation.
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced research and development environment.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD secret clearance

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience supporting Navy or DoD operational energy, experimentation, or advanced capability development initiatives.
• Familiarity with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), digital engineering methodologies, or advanced systems integration concepts.
• Experience with intellectual property development, patent support activities, or technology commercialization efforts.
• Active DoD Secret Clearance
• PMP, INCOSE, or related technical/professional certifications desirable.
The listed salary range for this role is intended as a good faith estimate based on the role's location, expectations, and responsibilities. When extending an offer, HII's Mission Technologies division takes a variety of factors into consideration which include, but are not limited to, the role's function and a candidate's education or training, work experience, and key skills.
Meet HII's Mission Technologies Division
Our team of more than 7,000 professionals worldwide delivers all-domain expertise and advanced technologies in service of mission partners across the globe. Mission Technologies is leading the next evolution of national defense - the data evolution - by accelerating a breadth of national security solutions for government and commercial customers. Our capabilities range from C5ISR, AI and Big Data, cyber operations and synthetic training environments to fleet sustainment, environmental remediation and the largest family of unmanned underwater vehicles in every class. Find the role that's right for you. Apply today. We look forward to meeting you.
To learn more about Mission Technologies, click here for a short video: https://vimeo.com/732533072
HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a new future. We offer competitive benefits such as best-in-class medical, dental and vision plan choices; wellness resources; employee assistance programs; Savings Plan Options (401(k)); financial planning tools, life insurance; employee discounts; paid holidays and paid time off; tuition reimbursement; as well as early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships. Bonus/other non-recurrent compensation is occasionally offered for qualified positions, and if applicable to this role will be addressed by the recruiter at the screening phase of application.
Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. Our workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.
Do You Need Assistance?
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to [email protected] and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address. Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #3 for HII Mission Technologies.

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