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Software Engineering Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SEACORP

Software Engineering Manager

Norfolk, VA

SEACORP is seeking a Software Engineering Manager to lead technical teams in the research, design, development, and testing of tactical navigation systems for surface and submarine platforms. This ...

Formlabs

Software Engineering Manager

Somerville, MA · On-site

Key contributor to software architecture decisions on new products for both R&D and production ... An excellent software engineer who has shown they are also successful as a manager and leader

Zunch Staffing

Software Engineering Manager

Naples, FL · On-site

$185K - $250K/yr

Innovation and Research: Stay abreast of the latest trends in software engineering and introduce innovative tools and techniques to enhance development processes. * Resource Management: Manage ...

SEACORP

Software Engineering Manager

Norfolk, VA · On-site

SEACORP is seeking a Software Engineering Manager to lead technical teams in the research, design, development, and testing of tactical navigation systems for surface and submarine platforms. This ...

Formlabs

Software Engineering Manager

Somerville, MA · On-site

$160K - $190K/yr

Key contributor to software architecture decisions on new products for both R&D and production ... An excellent software engineer who has shown they are also successful as a manager and leader

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Software Engineering Research information

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$206K

How much do software engineering research jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior software engineers, especially those in high-demand fields like machine learning, cloud computing, or cybersecurity, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

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.

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.

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.

Can I make 200K a year as a software engineer?

Software engineering research roles can reach or exceed a $200,000 annual salary, especially with seniority, specialized skills, or working in high-cost-of-living areas. Factors such as experience, expertise in in-demand technologies, and company size influence earning potential, with some roles offering bonuses and stock options that contribute to total compensation.

Will AI replace coders by 2040?

Software engineering research indicates that AI tools can automate certain coding tasks, but they are unlikely to fully replace human coders by 2040. Instead, AI is expected to augment developer work, requiring skills in AI integration, problem-solving, and adapting to new technologies.

What does a research software engineer do?

A research software engineer develops, maintains, and optimizes software tools and systems to support scientific research and data analysis. They often collaborate with researchers to translate experimental needs into functional code, using programming languages like Python, C++, or Java, and may work with high-performance computing environments. Their role combines software engineering skills with domain-specific knowledge to facilitate innovative research outcomes.
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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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 71% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 81% In-person, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $200,510 per year, or $96.4 per hour.

RESEARCH PROGRAMMER II (SOFTWARE ENGINEER) - C. Wu Lab

Scripps Research

San Diego, CA • On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

ABOUT US: Scripps Research is ranked one of the most influential institutions in the world for its impact on innovation. We expand basic knowledge in the biosciences and use these fundamental advancements to develop profound innovations that improve wellbeing. Our educational and training programs mold talented and committed students and postdocs into leading edge scientists. Scientists in the institute's five academic research departments work hand-in-hand with researchers of the Scripps Research Translational Institute and Calibr to merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs to better human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.
POSITION TITLE: Research Programmer II (Software Engineer)
POSITION SUMMARY:
The hiring laboratory is involved in numerous projects to build software infrastructure and tools for bioinformatics, genetics, and genomics research. We have a particular emphasis on building large scale data integration infrastructure and on community platforms that enable collaboration and crowdsourcing. Representative projects include outbreak.info, the BioThings SDK for building APIs (biothings.io), and mygene.info. The broader research team includes a mix of software engineers and scientists; of graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and staff; and of geographically and demographically diverse individuals. We actively cultivate an inclusive work environment.
This position can focus on any aspect of software engineering, including developing front-end interfaces to discover and analyze data, backend systems to efficiently access biomedical data, and/or DevOps to deploy and maintain software infrastructure.
REQUIREMENTS:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems or related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience. A degree in a biological or chemical science may be accepted if accompanied with programming education, training, and/or experience.
  • Minimum of two years experience in software application development and research programming.
  • Experience with software development in Python or JavaScript.
  • A demonstrated ability to apply the fundamentals of software application development.
  • Experience with version control, including git and github.

Please include code samples and/or a link to a public code repository with examples of your work.
PREFERRED SKILLSET:
Prior experience with the one or more of the following is preferred:
  • Familiarity with biomedical research and methodology, especially genetics and genomics.
  • Experience developing scalable system architectures that adhere to good software engineering principles
  • Ability to tackle large, open-ended research questions independently and as part of a team
  • Bioinformatics or computational biology experience
  • Experience working within a diverse, interdisciplinary team.
  • Experience building or consuming web service Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) for data integration.
  • Experience contributing to open source software projects.
  • Experience in LLM-based coding agents.

In addition, for applicants focusing on front-end development:
  • JavaScript frameworks (React, Vue.js, Angular, or similar), HTML5, CSS3, SASS/SCSS/LESS, TypeScript
  • Developing tools to share, visualize, and analyze biomedical data
  • Data visualization principles and methodology, and a portfolio of projects applying these principles to create
  • Web-based static and interactive visualizations using libraries like D3.js or Vega
  • User interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design
  • Cloud-based deployment

For applicants focusing on backend development or DevOps roles:
  • Elasticsearch
  • MongoDB
  • Postgres
  • Nginx
  • Linux server (Ubuntu Server) administration
  • Amazon Web Services setup and management
  • Automated deployment
  • Docker/Docker-compose, and automated CI/CD workflow setup
  • Ansible

LOCATION: La Jolla, California, or Remote Employment within the United States. In rare circumstances, candidates outside the United States will be considered.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: This position works in an office environment. Further details of the physical requirements of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.
COMPENSATION:
The expected hiring range for this position is $70,304 to $80,000 per year, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.
COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:
  • Employer Contributed Retirement Plan - Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) (which is similar to a 401(k) using your own pre or post-tax dollars)
  • Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more
  • Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care)
  • Competitive vacation and sick leave policies
  • Free, on-site parking

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.
EEO Statement:
The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture, and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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