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Senior Research Development Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sr. R&D Engineer

Franklin Park, IL ยท On-site

$103.90K - $142.70K/yr

Job Title: Sr. R&D Engineer Job Location: Franklin Park, IL Job Type: Full-Time * Be a subject matter expert in processing of plastic materials for consumer packaging * Provide expertise and ...

Senior R&D Engineer

Fresno, CA ยท On-site

$103.80K - $142.50K/yr

Exempt Position Summary The Senior R&D Engineer is responsible for leading advanced research initiatives, product development efforts, and complex engineering investigations that support innovation ...

Senior R&D Engineer

Fresno, CA ยท On-site

$103.80K - $142.50K/yr

Exempt Position Summary The Senior R&D Engineer is responsible for leading advanced research initiatives, product development efforts, and complex engineering investigations that support innovation ...

Sr. R&D Engineer

Tempe, AZ

$101.70K - $139.60K/yr

Sr. R&D Engineer BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world. Advancing the world of healthTM is our Purpose, and it's no small feat. It takes the imagination and ...

Sr. R&D Engineer

Mannford, OK ยท On-site

$86.10K - $118.30K/yr

Sr. R&D Engineer BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world. Advancing the world of healthTM is our Purpose, and it's no small feat. It takes the imagination and ...

New

A seeks a full-time Research and Development Engineer for our Consumer Products manufacturing facility in Lincoln, NE. Apply now at KawasakiCareers.com Please note: Sponsorship for employment visa ...

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Senior Research Development Engineer information

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$59.5K

$126.6K

$183.5K

How much do senior research development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior research development engineer in the United States is $126,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $143,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Senior Research Development Engineer, you need an advanced degree in engineering or a related field, strong problem-solving abilities, and deep expertise in research methodologies. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, data analysis platforms, and knowledge of relevant industry standards or patents is typically required. Exceptional communication, project management, and leadership skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for driving innovation, leading multidisciplinary teams, and delivering successful product or technology development outcomes.

What are some typical challenges Senior Research Development Engineers face when transitioning from research to product development?

Senior Research Development Engineers often encounter challenges when moving innovations from the research phase into product development, such as bridging the gap between theoretical models and practical implementation. This process may involve addressing unforeseen technical constraints, aligning project goals with market needs, and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams like product management, manufacturing, and quality assurance. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and a keen understanding of both technical and business priorities. Overcoming these hurdles not only ensures the feasibility of new products but also positions engineers for leadership roles in later-stage development or project management.

What does a Senior Research Development Engineer do?

A Senior Research Development Engineer leads and manages the research and development of new products, technologies, or processes within a company. They are responsible for designing experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to turn innovative ideas into practical solutions. In addition to technical expertise, they often oversee junior engineers, manage project timelines, and ensure compliance with industry standards. Their role is crucial in driving technological advancements and maintaining a company's competitive edge.

What is the difference between Senior Research Development Engineer vs Research Engineer?

AspectSenior Research Development EngineerResearch Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's/Master's/Ph.D. in Engineering or related field, often with experienceBachelor's or Master's in Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, innovation teamsResearch labs, product development teams
Employer & Industry UsageTech, manufacturing, aerospace, automotiveTech, academia, industrial research
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Senior Research Development Engineer and a Research Engineer lies in experience level and responsibilities. Senior Research Development Engineers typically lead projects, oversee development processes, and have more advanced expertise, while Research Engineers focus on conducting experiments and supporting research activities. Both roles require strong technical skills and relevant credentials, but the senior role involves more leadership and strategic planning.

What cities are hiring for Senior Research Development Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Research Development Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Senior Research Development Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Research Development Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Senior Research Development Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,557 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

Sr Research Development Officer

Northeastern University

Boston, MA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Job description

About the Opportunity
About the Opportunity:
The Office of Research Development at Northeastern University is situated under the Office of the Sr. Vice Provost for Research and supports Northeastern research, scholarship, creativity and innovation within the Research Division. The office provides specific assistance to all Northeastern faculty and researchers in the development and submission of research proposals and offers professional development opportunities to faculty and researchers.
The SRDO will be a critical and valued member of the Northeastern Research Development team, and will work to cultivate a strong research culture and growth in this national R1 research university. This position reports to the Vice Provost for Research Development located at our Boston campus.
Responsibilities:
The Sr. Research Development Officer (SRDO) will be responsible for increasing institutional research competitiveness through targeted capacity building, supporting strategic initiatives, developing partnerships and interdisciplinary teams and large complex proposals, and research related professional development and programming. We seek a highly collaborative and versatile colleague with attention to detail, impeccable writing skills and strong facilitation skills. Characteristics of the ideal candidate include curiosity, creativity, and compassion, and someone who thrives in a dynamic environment.
The SRDO will provide leadership, strategy development, and management of large/complex research proposals. They will develop deep knowledge of college-based and multidisciplinary research programs and will participate in the expansion of existing programs and the development of new initiatives, working with teams of faculty to develop strategies for successful funding. The SRDO will develop and maintain relationships with researchers, particularly early career, or non-traditional faculty, with a focus on building a sustainable matrix of sponsorship from diverse sources, including collaborative research with industry, and will leverage faculty strengths and internal funding programs to map to key sponsor activities. The SRDO will strengthen the institutional infrastructure for promoting interdisciplinary research and scholarly development across the university, working closely with members of research support services across the network.
Qualifications:
โ€ข Master's degree in a research related field, plus five years of experience in research development with an emphasis on multi-investigator proposal development; or Doctoral/terminal degree, plus three years of experience. Comparable experience, including but not limited to, research administration, research communications, project management or public administration or equivalent experience in areas that have the appropriate transferrable skills will also be considered;
โ€ข Extensive knowledge of extramural federal and non-federal sponsors supporting research and education activities, preferably in a university environment.
โ€ข Knowledge of federal agency proposal and award processes is desired.
โ€ข Excellent oral and written communication abilities with particular emphasis on ability to understand, interpret, and summarize scientific research initiatives across a variety of subject domains for presentation to technical and non-technical audiences.
โ€ข Demonstrated experience analyzing complex solicitations and translating technical concepts into a fundable proposal.
โ€ข Proven experience in business development, strategic planning, project management and technical writing.
โ€ข Ability to assume lead role in project and program management and demonstrated expertise in managing the development of complex documents, together with faculty colleagues.
โ€ข Ability to work simultaneously on multiple complex programs and activities in a timely manner with a high degree of quality, while remaining responsive to varying deadlines.
โ€ข Strong interpersonal and organizational skills with a demonstrated ability to build consensus and lead teams in order to achieve desired outcomes.
โ€ข The successful candidate will be a flexible, creative, scientifically literate professional and team player with ability to add value to the development of faculty-led research proposals and initiatives across a variety of subject domains.
Position Type
Research
Additional Information
Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.
Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Compensation Grade/Pay Type:
111S
Expected Hiring Range:
$87,785.00 - $123,998.75
With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.