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The differences between structural analysis engineers and research and development engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 2-4 years to become a structural analysis engineer, becoming a research and development engineer takes usually requires 4-6 years. Additionally, a research and development engineer has an average salary of $100,169, which is higher than the $98,208 average annual salary of a structural analysis engineer.
The top three skills for a structural analysis engineer include structural analysis, analysis tools and structural integrity. The most important skills for a research and development engineer are python, R, and solidworks.
| Structural Analysis Engineer | Research And Development Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $98,208 | $100,169 |
| Hourly rate | $47.22 | $48.16 |
| Growth rate | 6% | 2% |
| Number of jobs | 26,462 | 187,910 |
| Job satisfaction | - | 5 |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 70% | Bachelor's Degree, 70% |
| Average age | 44 | 41 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 6 |
A Structural Analysis Engineer is responsible for evaluating the construction processes of establishments and other industrial properties and ensuring adherence to high-quality standards. Structural Analysis Engineers assess the materials and equipment used for the operations to confirm compliance with the budget limitations and timetables. They also check the structures and foundations of the construction and recommend techniques to enhance the element integrity. A Structural Analysis Engineer designs construction plans, conduct cost and statistical analysis, and coordinates with the clients for progress updates and any adjustments.
Research and development engineers generally execute research and tests on product ideas, develop new products, and perform redesigns. They are employed in many industries, including manufacturing, electrical, and science-based companies. Their duties vary and depend on the industries they work in. Responsibilities of these engineers include developing new technologies, designing products, and managing the projects until they are completed. Additionally, they lead the project team members to manage their schedules, design the project plans, and collaborate with key departments in developing new products.
Structural analysis engineers and research and development engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Structural Analysis Engineer | Research And Development Engineer | |
| Average salary | $98,208 | $100,169 |
| Salary range | Between $66,000 And $145,000 | Between $74,000 And $135,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | Santa Rosa, CA |
| Highest paying state | Washington | California |
| Best paying company | Apple | Meta |
| Best paying industry | Transportation | Technology |
There are a few differences between a structural analysis engineer and a research and development engineer in terms of educational background:
| Structural Analysis Engineer | Research And Development Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 70% | Bachelor's Degree, 70% |
| Most common major | Mechanical Engineering | Mechanical Engineering |
| Most common college | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
Here are the differences between structural analysis engineers' and research and development engineers' demographics:
| Structural Analysis Engineer | Research And Development Engineer | |
| Average age | 44 | 41 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 83.9% Female, 16.1% | Male, 85.2% Female, 14.8% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 3.8% Unknown, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 9.0% Asian, 19.4% White, 63.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% | Black or African American, 3.1% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 7.8% Asian, 16.7% White, 67.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.1% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 5% |