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Research Programmer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

RESEARCH FELLOW

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$62K - $64K/yr

Cover letter with a brief research statement that outlines your previous and current research as ... Our department continues to develop engineers and technology to advance the state-of-the-art ...

Job Summary We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist / Research Engineer to develop and deploy advanced prognostics and predictive maintenance solutions for vehicle systems. The ideal candidate ...

Sr Research Engineer-RF

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$130K - $194K/yr

Overview From our Ann Arbor, MI office, we have an opening for a Senior Research Engineer with RF hardware experience. You will participate in multi-disciplinary, collaborative teams and contribute ...

Sr Research Engineer-RF

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$130K - $194K/yr

Overview From our Ann Arbor, MI office, we have an opening for a Senior Research Engineer with RF hardware experience. You will participate in multi-disciplinary, collaborative teams and contribute ...

Sr Research Engineer-RF

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$130K - $194K/yr

From our Ann Arbor, MI office, we have an opening for a Senior Research Engineer with RF hardware experience. You will participate in multi-disciplinary, collaborative teams and contribute to the ...

Research Investigator

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$100K - $103K/yr

... Research Investigator. This is a one year term-limited position with possibility of extension ... Chief engineer for propulsion (SPAR) * Overseeing the technical efforts of a national team of ...

The Specialist Research and Development (R&D) Engineer for Pumps and Seals is responsible for leading advanced research initiatives, developing innovative solutions, and optimizing the design and ...

Showing results 21-40

Research Programmer information

See Michigan salary details

$9.6K

$98.3K

$112.4K

How much do research programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for research programmer in Michigan is $98,315.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,900.00 and $112,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research programmer?

Research programmers are professionals who develop software, algorithms, and computational tools to support academic or scientific research projects. They work closely with researchers to design, implement, and optimize code for data analysis, simulations, and experiments. Their role often involves adapting existing software or creating new applications to solve specific research problems, ensuring that the software meets the requirements of the research team. Research programmers may also contribute to writing technical documentation and publishing results.

What is the difference between Research Programmer vs Data Analyst?

AspectResearch ProgrammerData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Data Science, or related fields; programming skillsBachelor's or Master's in Statistics, Data Science, or related fields; analytical skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, tech companiesBusiness, healthcare, finance, or marketing sectors
Employer & Industry UsageResearch projects, academic research, R&D departmentsData interpretation, reporting, and decision support in organizations

Research Programmers focus on developing software and tools for research purposes, often working in academic or research settings. Data Analysts interpret data to provide insights for business decisions. While both roles require strong technical skills, Research Programmers emphasize programming and software development, whereas Data Analysts focus on data interpretation and visualization.

How do research programmers typically collaborate with researchers and other team members during a project?

Research Programmers often work closely with principal investigators, data scientists, and subject matter experts to develop, test, and optimize software solutions tailored to research needs. Collaboration is highly iterative and may involve regular meetings to align on project goals, troubleshoot technical challenges, and adapt code to evolving research requirements. Effective communication and a flexible approach are key, as programmers frequently translate complex research concepts into functional code and may also assist with data analysis or visualization tasks.

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

To thrive as a Research Programmer, you need a strong background in computer science, programming languages (such as Python, Java, or C++), and a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with scientific computing tools, version control systems (like Git), and data analysis platforms is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with research teams and translate complex requirements into code. These skills enable you to develop robust software solutions that advance research goals and ensure project success.

What are popular job titles related to Research Programmer jobs in Michigan?

For Research Programmer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Research Programmer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,315 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

$62K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


University Of Michigan rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

How to Apply
Please submit the following required documentation as a single pdf file:
  • Cover letter with a brief research statement that outlines your previous and current research as well as skills that directly relate to this position.
  • Letters of recommendation from two professional references will also be required.
  • Curriculum Vitae

Who We Are
The Department of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, was started in 1879 with an act of Congress authorizing a Navy officer to teach "steam engineering and iron shipbuilding." Since this modest beginning, NAME has grown into a worldwide leader in education and research, with 25 faculty and 11 staff, serving our undergraduate and graduate students along with a network of some 3,000 living alumni. Our department continues to develop engineers and technology to advance the state-of-the-art systems operating in the marine environment. The department's students and faculty engage in a wide range of research, with specialists working in hydrodynamics; marine and offshore structures; dynamics, control and marine system integration; robotics and autonomy; yacht design; design, production, and management; marine renewable energy; and structural and hydro-acoustics. The Department has access to outstanding computational resources as well as the experimental facilities of the Marine Hydrodynamics Laboratory with its large physical modeling basin which serves as a vital resource.
Mission Statement
Michigan Engineers are world-class educators, researchers, students, and staff who strive to build a people-first future. As part of a top national public research institution, Michigan Engineering's mission is to provide scientific and technological leadership to the people of the world, develop intellectually curious and socially conscious minds, create collaborative solutions to societal problems, and promote an inclusive and innovative community of service for the common good.
Job Summary
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has established the Center for Naval Research & Education (CNRE) at the University of Michigan ( CNRE in the News ). Directed by Professor Krishnan Mahesh, the CNRE will address fundamental science and technology challenges of the future within the context of naval applications while training diverse and capable future generations. The core of the CNRE is a group of highly talented, energetic, multi-disciplinary postdoctoral researchers, senior graduate students, and undergraduate research trainees who create the vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment of excellence that will define the CNRE. CNRE research is both computational and experimental; we work on exciting problems in diverse areas such as bio-fluid interactions, signatures, wave energy, advanced materials, complex hydrodynamics and hydroacoustics, data assimilation and multi-disciplinary optimization, and autonomy. We seek talented, motivated postdoctoral applicants from all areas of engineering, math, physics, computer science and other relevant areas.
The duties and expectations of this position include performing research, participating in the preparation of technical reports and papers related to research and collaborating with other members of the center engaged in related research. Postdoctoral fellows may also participate in instructional activities, and in mentoring undergraduate and graduate students engaged in research activities.
Required Qualifications*
A doctoral degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering, Scientific Computation, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics or related areas is required. The successful candidate will have a strong record of computational/theoretical/research and excellent communication skills.
Additional Information
  • This position is for multiple hires.
  • The appointments will be for one year and possible renewal up to five years.
  • The primary work location for this role will be onsite at the University of Michigan Ann Arbor.

Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
267955
Working Title
RESEARCH FELLOW
Job Title
RESEARCH FELLOW
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Exempt
Organizational Group
College Engineering
Department
CoE Naval Arch & Marine Dept
Posting Begin/End Date
8/28/2025 - 8/31/2026
Salary
$62,232.00 - $64,099.00
Career Interest
Research Fellows

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About University of Michigan

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Michigan (U-M), based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is one of America's most esteemed institutions in higher education. Established in 1817, it presides in the industry of education and research, providing a range of services including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. Complementing this is an extensive research activity that has significantly contributed to various fields, from healthcare to engineering, humanities to sports. Upholding its mission "to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values", U-M consistently ranks among the top universities globally, a testament to its tradition of excellence in learning and research, and a deep commitment to innovation and discovery.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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