Research and Development Technician Jobs
Research and Development Technician jobs are open across pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, materials science, and consumer products manufacturing, at every level from entry-level lab assistant to senior technician, with specializations in formulation, testing protocols, and prototype development. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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The University of Arizona (UA) Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory (SO) are excited to invite applications for Postdoctoral Research Associates interested in research related to high contrast imaging and spectroscopy of exoplanets and substellar companions.
As a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will have the opportunity to work closely with Dr. Brittany Miles along with staff and engineers from the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO). You will be encouraged to integrate into the lab and Steward Observatory to support an collaborative scholarly environment in research, mentoring, and service. Your research will focus on:
- Integration and commissioning of the first ever, coronagraphic, adaptive optics assisted, long-wavelength infrared IFU.
- Development of thermal IR instrumentation and science for the Large Binocular Telescope and 30-meter class telescopes.
Throughout your postdoctoral journey with us, you will be encouraged to conduct your own independent research, as time permits, and will be able to apply for time on any Steward facility directly as a PI. You will be expected to lead high-profile, independent research in exoplanet and brown dwarf atmospheres as well as collaborate with SO faculty and scholars in the Department of Astronomy.
UA/SO offers a world-class research environment in space science and astrophysics with strong interdisciplinary programs across the Departments of Astronomy, Physics, Optical Sciences, and Planetary Sciences. We provide direct access to various world-class observational and computational facilities for ground-based radio and optical observing.
Steward Observatory is both a century-old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University’s oldest research units. The Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world-class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground- and space-based astronomy.Outstanding UA benefits includehealth, dental, vision,and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!
The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.
- Develop and lead an independent research agenda centered on thermal IR instrumentation and the characterization of planetary atmospheres; disseminate work through publications and presentations; contribute to public-engagement opportunities.
- Develop and implement research initiatives, collaborations, publications, and/or events (e.g., talks, workshops, visitor programs, etc.) as needed and relevant to research agendas.
- Collaborate with faculty and scholars in support of a collegial academic environment (including organizing collaborative meetings, supervising/mentoring graduate and undergraduate students).
- Must have completed all the requirements for a PhD in Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, or related science at the time of hire.
- Candidates with a PhD in astronomy/astrophysics are preferred.
- Research experience relevant to one or more of the following scientific areas:
- Experience with operating and testing astronomical instruments.
- Experience with infrared observations and data reduction.
Assistant Professor, Astronomy
bemiles@arizona.edu
Documents Required to apply:
- CV (limit: 2 pages), and list three potential reference writers
- Cover letter
- Research statement (limit: 5 pages)
- List of Publications
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.
The University of Arizona (UA) Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory (SO) are excited to invite applications for Postdoctoral Research Associates interested in research related to high contrast imaging and spectroscopy of exoplanets and substellar companions.
As a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will have the opportunity to work closely with Dr. Brittany Miles along with staff and engineers from the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO). You will be encouraged to integrate into the lab and Steward Observatory to support an collaborative scholarly environment in research, mentoring, and service. Your research will focus on:
- Integration and commissioning of the first ever, coronagraphic, adaptive optics assisted, long-wavelength infrared IFU.
- Development of thermal IR instrumentation and science for the Large Binocular Telescope and 30-meter class telescopes.
Throughout your postdoctoral journey with us, you will be encouraged to conduct your own independent research, as time permits, and will be able to apply for time on any Steward facility directly as a PI. You will be expected to lead high-profile, independent research in exoplanet and brown dwarf atmospheres as well as collaborate with SO faculty and scholars in the Department of Astronomy.
UA/SO offers a world-class research environment in space science and astrophysics with strong interdisciplinary programs across the Departments of Astronomy, Physics, Optical Sciences, and Planetary Sciences. We provide direct access to various world-class observational and computational facilities for ground-based radio and optical observing.
Steward Observatory is both a century-old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University’s oldest research units. The Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world-class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground- and space-based astronomy.Outstanding UA benefits includehealth, dental, vision,and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!
The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.
- Develop and lead an independent research agenda centered on thermal IR instrumentation and the characterization of planetary atmospheres; disseminate work through publications and presentations; contribute to public-engagement opportunities.
- Develop and implement research initiatives, collaborations, publications, and/or events (e.g., talks, workshops, visitor programs, etc.) as needed and relevant to research agendas.
- Collaborate with faculty and scholars in support of a collegial academic environment (including organizing collaborative meetings, supervising/mentoring graduate and undergraduate students).
- Must have completed all the requirements for a PhD in Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, or related science at the time of hire.
- Candidates with a PhD in astronomy/astrophysics are preferred.
- Research experience relevant to one or more of the following scientific areas:
- Experience with operating and testing astronomical instruments.
- Experience with infrared observations and data reduction.
Assistant Professor, Astronomy
bemiles@arizona.edu
Documents Required to apply:
- CV (limit: 2 pages), and list three potential reference writers
- Cover letter
- Research statement (limit: 5 pages)
- List of Publications
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.
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Find JobsResearch and Development Technician Job Market
Who's Hiring
- Penn State University24
- General Motors (GM)18
- Maverick Power17
- Cook7
- Zymo Research4
Top Industries Hiring
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals
- Education
- Medical Devices
- Healthcare & Medical Services
- Retail
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in research and development technician jobs.
- Associate or bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, engineering, or a related science field
- Hands-on experience operating analytical instruments such as HPLC, GC-MS, or spectrophotometers
- Proficiency in documenting experiments and maintaining laboratory notebooks or electronic records
- Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practices or Good Manufacturing Practices compliance standards
- Experience preparing, handling, and disposing of chemical or biological samples safely
- Ability to interpret data, identify anomalies, and communicate findings clearly to research staff
Tips for Your Research and Development Technician Job Search
Tailor your resume to lab documentation
Hiring managers for research and development technician roles prioritize candidates who can demonstrate precise record-keeping. Highlight specific lab notebooks, batch records, or electronic lab information systems you've used, not just general lab experience.
List every instrument and software you've operated
Job postings for research and development technicians are often screened by instrument name. Call out specific equipment like HPLC, GC-MS, or rheometers, and any data analysis software, so your resume clears automated keyword filters before a hiring manager reads it.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists research and development technician openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Target postings that name your industry segment
Research and development technician roles differ sharply between pharmaceuticals, food science, and polymer chemistry. Search by industry keyword alongside the job title so you're applying to roles where your specific bench experience is immediately relevant to the team.
Prepare protocol walkthroughs for technical interviews
Interviewers frequently ask you to walk through an experiment or troubleshooting scenario step by step. Practice explaining a standard operating procedure you've executed, including how you handled deviations or unexpected results, in plain language without jargon.
Negotiate start date around any notice period or certification
If you're completing a certification such as a Good Manufacturing Practice training or hazardous materials handling course, name it during the offer conversation. Most R&D teams will adjust a start date rather than lose a qualified candidate who is days from finishing a required credential.
Research and Development Technician Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most research and development technicians?
The most active employers for research and development technicians right now are Penn State University, General Motors (GM), and Maverick Power, and the most openings are in Pennsylvania, California, and Michigan, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Demand is especially concentrated at large pharmaceutical manufacturers, specialty chemical companies, and consumer goods corporations with in-house formulation teams.
How many research and development technician jobs are remote?
About 54% of research and development technician openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting that most roles require physical access to lab equipment and materials. The sub-areas most likely to offer remote or hybrid arrangements are data analysis, regulatory documentation, and project coordination roles within larger R&D departments.
How do you become a research and development technician?
Start by completing an associate or bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, materials science, or a closely related field, with as many hands-on lab courses as possible. Seek internships or co-op placements in an industrial or academic lab to build instrument experience. Then target entry-level technician postings that match your specific bench skills, since most employers train on proprietary protocols once you're hired.
Can you get hired as a research and development technician with little experience?
Yes, many employers hire research and development technicians directly out of a two-year or four-year science program if you can demonstrate hands-on lab competency. Focus your application on specific techniques you've practiced in coursework or academic research, such as titrations, microscopy, or sample prep. Contract and temp-to-hire positions at contract research organizations are also a common entry point that can convert to permanent roles.
What does the research and development technician interview process look like?
Most hiring processes include an initial phone or video screen focused on your lab background, followed by a technical interview where you walk through past experiments or troubleshoot a hypothetical protocol failure. Some employers add a practical skills assessment at the bench. Final interviews typically involve the broader R&D team and cover safety practices, documentation habits, and your ability to follow and improve standard operating procedures.
Where can I find and apply to research and development technician jobs?
You can find and apply to research and development technician jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States. Search for roles that match your instrument experience, industry background, and seniority level, then apply directly to each listing that fits your qualifications.
See All 242+ Research and Development Technician Jobs
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