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Research Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

As a Research Engineer, you will be responsible for building AI systems that can perform previously impossible tasks and achieve unprecedented levels of performance, requiring strong engineering ...

The Research Engineer will play a crucial role in building and training AI agents for vulnerability discovery and exploitation. Responsibilities : • Build State-of-the-Art AI Agentic pipelines ...

They are seeking a Research Engineer to train models, design RL training environments, and manage the training pipeline while working closely with the research CEO. Responsibilities : • Train ...

About The Role As a Research Engineer at Phonic, you'll sit at the intersection of cutting-edge ML research and production engineering, working directly on the core systems that make Phonic's voice ...

Position Overview We are hiring Research Engineers to develop scalable robotic systems aimed at achieving general-purpose robotic intelligence. In this role, you'll work with researchers and ...

We are seeking highly motivated and skilled Research Engineers who will work very closely with our Algo Developer (Quant Research) trading teams. These roles require exceptional programming ...

The Role - Research Engineer Own difficult, first-principles R&D that unlocks rare-earth metal production at scale. You will design and execute high-temperature experiments, build and operate custom ...

Factory is seeking innovative Research Engineers to design and integrate advanced AI and ML capabilities that revolutionize productivity and accelerate innovation within software organizations. What ...

$100K - $190K/yr

... developers such as OpenAI and independent evaluations for governments including the EU AI Office. We help steer and grow the AI safety field through developing research roadmaps with renowned ...

Research Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$250K - $445K/yr

About the Role As a Research Engineer here, you will be responsible for building AI systems that can perform previously impossible tasks or achieve unprecedented levels of performance. We're looking ...

As a Research Engineer in the LIGO Laboratory, you will have the opportunity to apply your skills to the design and implementation of technologies that increase the LIGO detector sensitivity and ...

Research Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$180K - $300K/yr

About the Role As a Research Engineer, you will play a crucial role in conducting and enabling cutting-edge research and translating it into our core product pipeline. You will work closely with ...

Research Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$122K - $215K/yr

To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer, you will be at the forefront of advancing and deploying artificial intelligence algorithms for our self-driving vehicles. You will work ...

Who You Are As our Research Engineer you will work at FANUC's Advanced Research Laboratory in Union City, CA. You will conduct research and submit patent applications while ensuring flawless ...

Research Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$122K - $215K/yr

To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer, you will be at the forefront of advancing and deploying artificial intelligence algorithms for our self-driving vehicles. You will work ...

Research Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$200K - $350K/yr

About the role We're hiring a Research Engineer to push Console's core agent loop from powerful to truly self-improving. As more customers rely on Console to automate critical back-office operations ...

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Showing results 1-20

Research Engineer information

See California salary details

$36.5K

$104.6K

$140.6K

How much do research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for research engineer in California is $104,624.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,600.00 and $102,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are research engineers?

Research engineers are professionals who apply scientific and engineering principles to conduct research, develop new products, and improve existing technologies. They typically work in laboratories, research and development departments, or academic settings, collaborating with scientists and other engineers. Their work often involves designing experiments, analyzing data, and creating prototypes to solve technical problems or advance knowledge in their field.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. These roles typically require specialized knowledge, advanced degrees, and sometimes certifications, and compensation can vary based on location and company size.

What is the difference between Research Engineer vs Data Scientist?

AspectResearch EngineerData Scientist
Required CredentialsTypically requires a master's or Ph.D. in engineering, computer science, or related fieldsUsually holds a master's or Ph.D. in statistics, computer science, or related areas
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, technology companiesData analysis teams, analytics departments, tech firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in engineering, manufacturing, aerospace, and tech industriesCommon in finance, healthcare, marketing, and tech sectors

Research Engineers focus on developing new technologies, prototypes, and engineering solutions, often working on hardware or system design. Data Scientists analyze large datasets to extract insights, build predictive models, and support decision-making. While both roles require strong technical skills and advanced degrees, their core functions and industry applications differ significantly.

What Is a Research Engineer?

A research engineer studies methods and performs tests to find the best materials, practices, or design for performing a specific task or producing licensed products. They can play a vital role in the development of products, systems, and methods in almost any industry, and their duties often revolve around a company’s research and development (R&D) department. A research engineer may work with design teams in an office or lab setting, or they may work in the field, performing tests and experiments in a real-world environment.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, petroleum, aerospace, and electrical engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in specialized industries, holding managerial positions, or possessing advanced certifications and expertise in high-demand areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Engineer, a strong background in engineering principles, advanced mathematics, and scientific research—often supported by a relevant degree or postgraduate study—is essential. Familiarity with data analysis tools like MATLAB or Python, CAD software, and laboratory instrumentation is typically required, along with experience in technical report writing. Strong analytical thinking, creativity, and effective collaboration skills help Research Engineers excel in multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for developing innovative solutions, advancing technology, and ensuring rigorous, impactful research outcomes.

What is the job of a research engineer?

A research engineer develops and applies scientific principles to create new technologies, improve existing systems, or solve technical problems. They often work in laboratories or industrial settings, utilizing skills in engineering, data analysis, and experimentation to advance knowledge and innovation.

How do Research Engineers typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

Research Engineers often work closely with scientists, data analysts, product managers, and software engineers to develop and implement innovative solutions. Collaboration usually involves regular meetings to align on project goals, sharing technical findings, and integrating research outcomes into product development. Effective communication and the ability to translate complex research concepts into actionable insights are key to ensuring the project progresses smoothly and meets its objectives.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and work in high-demand industries or leadership positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Research Engineer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Research Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Research Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Research Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Research Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $104,624 per year, or $50.3 per hour.

Research Engineer

OpenAI

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 hours ago


Job description

Job Summary:
OpenAI is an AI research and deployment company dedicated to ensuring that general-purpose artificial intelligence benefits all of humanity. As a Research Engineer, you will be responsible for building AI systems that can perform previously impossible tasks and achieve unprecedented levels of performance, requiring strong engineering skills and experience in large distributed systems.
Responsibilities:
• Have strong programming skills
• Have experience working in large distributed systems
• Be excited about OpenAI’s approach to research
Qualifications:
Required:
• Have strong programming skills
• Have experience working in large distributed systems
• Be excited about OpenAI’s approach to research
Preferred:
• Interested in and thoughtful about the impacts of AI technology
• Past experience in creating high-performance implementations of deep learning algorithms
Company:
OpenAI is an AI research and deployment company that develops advanced AI models, including ChatGPT. It is a sub-organization of OpenAI Foundation. Founded in 2015, the company is headquartered in San Francisco, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.