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Research Project Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Certified Group

Research Associate

Turlock, CA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The Research Associate conducts testing procedures for project-based studies, such as shelf-life studies, inoculated challenge studies, process validation studies, etc., as described in ...

Certified Group

Research Associate

Turlock, CA

JOB SUMMARY The Research Associate conducts testing procedures for project-based studies, such as shelf-life studies, inoculated challenge studies, process validation studies, etc., as described in ...

Certified Group

Research Associate

Turlock, CA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The Research Associate conducts testing procedures for project-based studies, such as shelf-life studies, inoculated challenge studies, process validation studies, etc., as described in ...

Sodexo

School Food Service Consultant

Delhi, CA · On-site

Strong financial, analytical, research, and project management skills are essential, along with the ability to communicate clearly and drive results using tools such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Sodexo

School Food Service Consultant

Delhi, CA · On-site

Strong financial, analytical, research, and project management skills are essential, along with the ability to communicate clearly and drive results using tools such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

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All JobsResearch Project JobsResearch Project Jobs in Modesto, CA

Research Project information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$52.8K

$90.8K

$139.3K

How much do research project jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for research project in Modesto, CA is $90,764.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,400.00 and $96,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced when managing a research project team, and how can they be overcome?

Managing a research project team often involves balancing diverse skillsets, coordinating schedules across disciplines, and ensuring clear communication among members. One frequent challenge is aligning everyone’s priorities and timelines, particularly when team members have varying backgrounds or external commitments. Overcoming these challenges typically involves setting clear objectives, holding regular check-ins, and fostering an open, collaborative environment where feedback is encouraged. Utilizing project management tools and maintaining thorough documentation can also help ensure tasks are tracked and progress remains transparent for all team members.

What is a research project?

Research projects are structured investigations designed to answer specific questions or solve problems within a particular field of study. They typically involve defining a research question, conducting a literature review, gathering and analyzing data, and presenting findings. Research projects can be undertaken in academic, scientific, or professional settings and may contribute to new knowledge, policy recommendations, or practical solutions. These projects often require collaboration, critical thinking, and adherence to ethical standards.

What is the difference between Research Project vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch ProjectResearch Assistant
CredentialsVaries; often requires advanced degrees or specialized trainingTypically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentIndependent or team-based research settings, labs, or field sitesSupportive role within research teams, assisting with data collection and analysis
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agenciesUniversities, labs, research organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for project scope and responsibilitiesCompared for entry-level research roles and support tasks

The main difference between a Research Project and a Research Assistant is that a Research Project refers to the overall research initiative, often led by principal investigators, while a Research Assistant is a supporting role within that project, assisting with specific tasks. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify job responsibilities and career pathways in research environments.

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

To thrive as a Research Project Manager, you need expertise in project management, data analysis, and subject-specific research methods, often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with project management software (such as Microsoft Project or Asana), statistical analysis tools (like SPSS or R), and compliance protocols (such as IRB processes) is typically required. Exceptional organizational skills, critical thinking, and clear communication help coordinate teams and stakeholders effectively. These competencies are essential to ensure research projects are completed on time, within scope, and with scientific rigor.
Research Project jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Project job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,764 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

Research & Development Mechanical Engineer

SPECTRA TECH, Inc.

Livermore, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 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.

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