What does a Research Engineer do?
Research engineers plan, design, develop, and build innovative equipment and technologies using a research-driven process. They perform investigations, testing, modeling, verifications, comparative analysis, and other forms of research to make educated recommendations. They support and guide organizations or clients in making informed decisions based on this data, which is then used to develop action plans for designing and implementing systems and equipment that supports key objectives. They also play an active role in strategic planning by providing ongoing research-based input and advice.
Research engineers typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, or another technical field, although an advanced degree is often preferred. They should have hands-on experience with a wide range of research tools and programs, including verification and testing programs.
- Establish and manage the operating and capital equipment budgets for the team.
- Identify, evaluate, and manage vendors to support early-mid phase device prototyping.
- Perform data analysis to identify trends and opportunities of improvement.
- Coordinate product return, on hold, and product destruction operations.
- Enhance the product through algorithm development and code implementation.
- Actively lead in team engagement action planning and implementation.
- Prepare and contribute to technical documents, product manuals, and protocols.
- Design and oversee manufacturing of test equipment and apparatus.
- Assist in process development, product optimization, including manufacturing and QC procedures.
- Help organize and participate in field trials as required.
- Lead scientific evaluation and participate in diligence and negotiation activities.
- Assist with the evaluation and recommendation of new equipment and technology.
- Audit review programs and make corrections based on findings.
- Serve as technical project lead (principal investigator) for integration process development programs.
- Work closely with internal product teams to understand and address their requirements.
- Review work products and documents to ensure technical rigor and quality.
- Bachelor's Degree in engineering or science.
- Fluent with Python and other programming languages.
- Basic understanding of writing protocols.
- Solid algorithm design skills.
- Strong leadership, problem solving, and critical thinking skills.
Research Engineer Salaries near United Kingdom
Average Base Pay
Research Engineer Career Path
Learn how to become a Research Engineer, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Research Engineer Insights
Telit Wireless Solutions“3. Salary increments are not great and money related issues don't get easily addressed.”
University of Leeds“The work and life balance was very much similar to like working at an angel startup.”
Aztech“Do not have any development methodologies and project management strategies to develop a good product.”
Clarapath“It is a great opportunity to learn and apply what you know in many areas and levels.”
Church & Dwight“Great place to start your career: early empowerment and experiences much earlier than competition.”
Exact Sciences“Exact Sciences is the best place to have your summer internship and to get experience in the biotech industry.”
Nokia“Strong Brand: Nokia's reputable brand can enhance your resume and open doors for future career opportunities.”
3M“Employee morale is terrible currently and I don't see it improving any time soon.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of a Research Engineer
- Engineering Consultant
- Development Engineer
- Optical Engineer
- Research Assistant
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Salary Negotiations
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I’ve been at my org 7yrs. There is a pattern of me inheriting the work of higher level fired employees without a raise. I’m in research w/ an Ops background. They fired our Ops Director ($140k) and gave me some of those duties but said I’m not eligible for a pay raise due to my “emotional intelligence” and that I need to produce more research for a raise. I make ~$80k. Ops is a mess, I have more experience in it than the Director did, and that lane of work is taking most of my time. Advice?