As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Research and Development Engineer in Albany, CA is $143,086 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $69.
However, a Research and Development Engineer's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Research and Development Engineer's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, skills and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Research and Development Engineer's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Research and Development Engineer | $139,537 |
| Intermediate Level Research and Development Engineer | $139,860 |
| Senior Level Research and Development Engineer | $141,150 |
| Specialist Level Research and Development Engineer | $146,714 |
| Expert Level Research and Development Engineer | $149,434 |
What Am I Worth?
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 8.08% |
| Computer Vision | 2.84% |
| Deep Learning | 2.06% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Deep Learning
|
$155,964 |
9%
|
|
Computer Vision
|
$153,102 |
7%
|
|
Artificial Intelligence
|
$151,671 |
6%
|
|
Machine Learning
|
$151,671 |
6%
|
|
Computer Science
|
$148,810 |
4%
|
|
Algorithms
|
$148,810 |
4%
|
Understanding how a Research and Development Engineer's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Research and Development Engineer, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Human Factors Researcher IV | $164,788 | 15% |
| Research and Development Associate IV | $160,808 | 12% |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Research and Development Engineer job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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