The profession of a Research Engineer
The Research Engineer, or Research and Development (R&D) Engineer, participates in or leads projects focused on the research, development, or improvement of products, services, or processes. They may also train and disseminate knowledge to future users or project stakeholders.
Innovation driven by an R&D department or a research firm is a key factor in a company's competitiveness and growth. As such, the R&D Engineer plays a vital role in corporate strategy. This responsibility requires a Master’s degree (Bac+5) and an engineering diploma. The Master’s in Management of Innovation equips students with a broad range of skills and techniques essential for innovation management, preparing them to become Research Engineers.
Role and responsibilities of a Research Engineer
The Research Engineer is involved throughout the process of improving products or procedures. This applied research specialist brings both technical expertise and project management skills to fulfill their mission. The responsibilities of an R&D Engineer vary depending on the company they work for (industrial sector, services, consulting, or engineering firms…).
Daily tasks
- Study the feasibility of the project
- Research and identify the best means of innovation
- Draft the project specifications
- Design and oversee the creation or improvement work
- Coordinate the project stakeholders
- Establish and manage the budget
- Test and interpret the results
- Train future users
- Conduct technology watch activities
Salaries and career progression
The median salary of a Research Engineer is €40,000 per year right after completing their studies, following the Master’s in Innovation Management at Université Paris-Dauphine PSL. Depending on projects and results achieved, their salary may increase through fixed and variable income. After 3 years of experience, a Research Engineer’s salary typically ranges between €45,000 and €55,000, depending on the projects and their level of management responsibilities.
An R&D Engineer can specialize in a specific field of research and development or move into a role as a manager, R&D project lead, or even a Director of Research and Development.
Required skills
- Strong knowledge in a specific field
- Passion and skills for research and development
- Expertise in project management, especially R&D projects
- Managerial skills
- Ability to manage timelines, costs, and budgets
- Versatility to address all project challenges
- Precision and methodical approach
- Good interpersonal skills
- Stress resilience and adaptability
What studies are required to become an R&D Engineer ?
The Research and Development Engineer possesses both the technical skills of a value or solution creator and the management skills of a project leader. This multidisciplinary profile requires a wide range of education on various topics. To become a Research Engineer, students must pursue a Master's degree (Bac+5) from a reputable institution.
Training to Become a Research Engineer at Université Paris Dauphine-PSL
Université Paris Dauphine-PSL, in partnership with Mines Paris-PSL, offers a Master’s in Management of Innovation to prepare students for roles such as Innovation Project Manager. The program covers a variety of subjects, including law, data management, marketing, innovation management, and strategy. In addition to theoretical learning, the university curriculum provides students with project management methods and real-world professional experience through practical missions.