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Research Programmer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Oakland University

Research Assistant

Rochester, MI · On-site

$18/hr

Posting Details Posting Details Position Title Research Assistant Department 2185 - Electrical & Computer Engineering Position Number X30442 Requisition No. TC06332 Salary Range/Pay Rate $18.00/hour ...

Oakland University

Research Intern

Rochester, MI · On-site

$20/hr

Posting Details Posting Details Position Title Research Intern Department 2064 - Computer Science & Engineering Position Number X12010 Requisition No. TC06203 Salary Range/Pay Rate $20.00 hr Benefits ...

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All JobsResearch Programmer JobsResearch Programmer Jobs in Michigan

Research Programmer information

See Michigan salary details

$9.6K

$98.3K

$112.4K

How much do research programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those in high-demand fields like machine learning, AI, or working at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually through base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often leadership roles or specialized expertise in the industry.

What are research programmers?

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.

Which research job pays the most?

Research director or principal investigator roles in fields like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or data science tend to offer the highest salaries among research jobs, often exceeding six figures. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills, and they may involve managing large teams or projects. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and level of expertise.

What is an analyst programmer's salary?

An analyst programmer's salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often require proficiency in programming languages, systems analysis, and software development tools, with higher salaries generally associated with advanced skills and certifications.

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 do research developers do?

Research developers design, implement, and maintain software tools and systems to support scientific research and data analysis. They often collaborate with researchers to develop algorithms, automate workflows, and optimize computational processes using programming languages like Python, R, or C++. Their work enables efficient data processing and helps advance research projects across various scientific disciplines.

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:
What job categories do people searching Research Programmer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Research Programmer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Programmer jobs in MI? For Research Programmer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Research Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Programmer job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% As Needed, 30% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 11% Temporary, and 35% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,315 per year, or $47.3 per hour.
Research Engineer II/III - RF Hardware

Research Engineer II/III - RF Hardware

SRI International

Ann Arbor, MI

$115K - $172K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

From our Ann Arbor, MI office, we have an opening for a Research Engineer with RF hardware experience. You will participate in multi-disciplinary, collaborative teams and contribute to the development of state-of-the-art remote sensing and surveillance processing algorithms and software implemented on real-time hardware. Relevant sensor types include electro-optic/infrared and active/passive radar imaging systems. Most programs are executed in small, highly collaborative groups. This is an in-office position with flexibility to work remotely occasionally.

This position is within the Advanced Technology and Systems Division (ATSD). The vision of ATSD is to create competitive advantages for our customers by inventing new technology and concepts resulting in disruptive, low cost, and high-performance solutions. The division advances the state of the art in diverse areas such as radar and electronic warfare; novel imaging technology; robotics; quantum sensing and metrology; marine technology; and applied optics. CHECK US OUT!


  • Work with an interdisciplinary team to design, develop, and test RF systems, including: transmitters, receivers, and antennas spanning high frequency (HF) to W-band (100 GHz)
  • Modeling of RF systems using industry-standard design tools
  • Collaboration with engineers across different domains, including: mechanical, optical, digital
  • Documentation of system designs and schematics, test plans and procedures, and hardware development and test software
  • Participation in field experiments and data collections

  • Minimum qualifications: REII – Bachelors with 2+ years OR MS; RE III - Bachelors with 5+ years OR MS with 3+ years of related experience.   Area of study - Electrical Engineering.
  • U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance required.
  • Proficiency in use of RF laboratory test equipment, including: spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, oscilloscopes, and RF signal sources.
  • Ability to prepare and present technical content in a professional manner to customers and coworkers.
  • Ability to support occasional travel associated with meetings and/or data collections.

Desired Skills:

  • RF printed circuit board design and debug experience. Knowledge of Altium software is a plus.
  • Electrical system fabrication and debug, including wiring, circuit board assembly, light mechanical fabrication
  • Electromagnetic, antenna, and RF circuit modeling using industry-standard software. Familiarity with Ansys HFSS are Keysight Genesys are pluses.
  • Phased array antenna systems: design, modeling, fabrication, testing
  • Hardware integration and testing
  • System-level analysis and architecture development of RF systems
  • Experience with automation of RF test equipment
  • Experience with Matlab and/or Python; familiarity with Linux

The salary range is: RE II $90,580-$134,740; RE III-$115,710-$172,115. Salary ranges will vary and are based on several factors, including geographic location, market competitiveness and equity amongst internal employees in similar roles. Positions may also qualify for SRI's Pay for Outstanding Performance program or the annual Performance Based Compensation program. SRI also has a competitive benefits package, to view details please go to https://www.sri.com/resources/benefits/. SRI will accept applications until the position is filled.

SRI is an independent nonprofit research institute headquartered in Menlo Park, Calif., with a rich history of supporting government and industry. We create and deliver world-changing solutions for a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future. For more than 75 years, we have collaborated across technical and scientific disciplines to discover and develop groundbreaking products and technologies and bring innovations and ideas to the marketplace.

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