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Cmu

AI-Native Software Engineering Researcher

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site +1

$245K/yr

Our team works to shape that future through pioneering research, practical engineering methods, and close collaboration with government, industry, and academia. At the AI-Native Software Engineering ...

Weekday AI

Software Engineering Expert

$60 - $90/hr

We are seeking experienced Software Engineers to design and validate sophisticated engineering ... Working alongside AI researchers, you'll help identify where advanced AI coding systems succeed ...

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How much do software engineering research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineering research in the United States is $200,510.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $205,000.00 and $205,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is software engineering research?

Software engineering research is the systematic study of methods, tools, and practices used to design, develop, test, and maintain software systems. Researchers in this field aim to improve software quality, productivity, and efficiency by exploring new techniques in programming, project management, and software architecture. Their work often involves both theoretical studies and practical experiments, contributing to advancements in technology and industry best practices. The results of software engineering research influence the development of new software tools, methodologies, and standards.

How does a software engineering researcher typically collaborate with product development teams?

Software Engineering Researchers often work closely with product development teams to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world application. This collaboration may involve presenting findings, proposing innovative solutions to engineering challenges, and assisting in the integration of new technologies or methodologies into existing workflows. Researchers also frequently participate in design and code reviews, as well as brainstorming sessions, to ensure that research outcomes are aligned with the team's goals and practical constraints. Such interdisciplinary cooperation not only accelerates product innovation but also helps researchers gain insight into market needs and technical limitations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software engineering researcher, and why are they important?

To excel as a Software Engineering Researcher, you need a strong background in computer science, programming, algorithm design, and a graduate degree (often a Ph.D.) in a related field. Familiarity with advanced research tools, version control systems, programming languages like Python or C++, and experience with academic publishing and data analysis platforms is typical. Analytical thinking, creativity, effective communication, and collaboration are essential soft skills for presenting findings and working with interdisciplinary teams. These abilities enable researchers to innovate, contribute original insights, and advance the field of software engineering.

What is the difference between Software Engineering Research vs Software Development?

AspectSoftware Engineering ResearchSoftware Development
CredentialsAdvanced degrees (Master's, PhD), research experienceBachelor's or higher in Computer Science or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, R&D departmentsCorporate offices, startups, tech companies
Industry UsageFocus on developing new theories, algorithms, and methodologiesBuilding, testing, and maintaining software products
Common Search IntentResearch methods, academic careers, innovative technologiesJob roles, project management, coding skills

Software Engineering Research involves exploring new theories and methodologies in software development, often within academic or R&D settings. In contrast, Software Development focuses on creating and maintaining software products in industry environments. Both roles require strong technical skills, but their goals and work settings differ significantly.

What does a software engineering researcher do?

A software engineering researcher investigates methods, tools, and processes for developing software systems. They analyze software design, testing, and maintenance techniques, often using programming languages, data analysis, and research methodologies to improve software quality and development practices.
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What job categories do people searching Software Engineering Research jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Engineering Research jobs are:

Software Engineering Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineering Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $200,510 per year, or $96.4 per hour.

AI and Software Engineering Research Scientist -- Edge Software with Security Clearance

Software Engineering Institute

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$199K/yr

Other

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

What We Do: The SEI's Tactical Edge and AI-Enabled Systems (TAS) initiative advances and transitions AI and edge software capabilities with a focus on production-readiness of AI and edge systems and components. Examples include supporting small units operating in difficult edge environments that are often disconnected from enterprise computing infrastructure, such as tactical autonomy, first responders, space, and avionics systems. A natural outcome of our work is the advancement and transition of software engineering tools, methods, and approaches to enable production-readiness of AI systems and components. Position Summary: As an AI and Software Engineering Research Scientist in the TAS Initiative you will develop, mature, and prototype technologies, and transition these technologies to government and industry organizations. You will directly develop and apply work with customers, balancing short-term customer needs with long-term goals of solving complex technical challenges within the development of `tactical edge and AI-enabled systems. You will represent technical work with customers, stakeholders, and the academic community, while advancing the TAS research agenda in edge software systems, in areas such as: * Edge AI in DDIL (degraded, disconnected, intermittent, limited) environments
* Edge Intelligence
* Edge-to-Cloud continuum
* UaX-Edge collaboration
* Software engineering for AI-enabled systems, including agentic AI systems As part of the AI-native Software Engineering (AISE) directorate you will also be a part of the AISE Lab, advancing and learning about the state-of-the-art in AI-assisted tools and processes that are changing the practice of software engineering. Requirements: * PhD in computer science, software engineering, machine learning, or related discipline
* Two (2) or more years of full-time professional experience engineering edge software systems in a research environment, or eight (8) or more years of demonstrated experience leading the development and transition of innovative software engineering techniques into operational practice
* Strong empirical research skills
* Strong written and verbal communication skills
Desired Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: * Development and deployment of edge software systems, or systems with similar technical challenges, into operational environments
* Ability to communicate research outcomes, demonstrated by a publication record which includes relevant top-tier venues in software engineering and AI
* Development of successful research proposals
* Excellent analytical, problem solving, and interpersonal skills
* Ability to work in teams with a variety of technical and organizational skills
Other Requirements: * Flexible to travel to sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings (~10% travel).
* Able and willing to work onsite at the SEI office in Pittsburgh, 5 days per week.
* You will be subject to a background investigation and must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Department of War) security clearance.
. Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Job Function
Software/Applications Development/Engineering
Position Type
Staff - Regular
Full time/Part time
Full time
Pay Basis
Salary
More Information: * Please visit " Why Carnegie Mellon " to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
* Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
* Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran .
* Statement of Assurance

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