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Chief Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ManTech

Chief Scientist

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$128K - $214K/yr

MANTECH seeks a career and customer-oriented Chief Scientist to join our team in Washington, D.C. This is a hybrid position with 1 day onsite and 4 days remote per week. The role requires an ...

ManTech International

Chief Scientist

Washington, DC · On-site

$128K - $214K/yr

MANTECH seeks a career and customer-oriented Chief Scientist to join our team in Washington, D.C. This is a hybrid position with 1 day onsite and 4 days remote per week. The role requires an ...

Cheetah Mobile

Chief Scientist - AI

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Chief Scientist - AI Location: San Francisco Bay Area - Palo Alto, California Who We Are Cheetah Mobile (NYSE: CMCM) is a leading, profitable global mobile internet company founded and based in ...

Cheetah Mobile

Chief Scientist - AI

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Chief Scientist - AI Location: San Francisco Bay Area - Palo Alto, California Who We Are Cheetah Mobile (NYSE: CMCM) is a leading, profitable global mobile internet company founded and based in ...

Avum Inc.

Chief Scientist

Agoura Hills, CA · On-site

$155 - $210/hr

Master's or PhD in computer science, engineering, or related field * 12+ years of software development experience with 5+ in architecture/leadership * Expert-level Java, Spring Boot, and microservice ...

AVUM INC

Chief Scientist

Malibu, CA · On-site

$155K - $210K/yr

Master's or PhD in computer science, engineering, or related field * 12+ years of software development experience with 5+ in architecture/leadership * Expert-level Java, Spring Boot, and microservice ...

Giant Magellan Telescope

Project Scientist

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$155K - $240K/yr

Chief Scientist Type: Full-Time Location: Pasadena, CA Job Summary Reporting to the GMTO Chief Scientist (CS), the Project Scientist (PS) will assist and support the CS in all aspects of the ...

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Chief Scientist information

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$89K

$144K

$187.5K

How much do chief scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief scientist in the United States is $143,971.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,500.00 and $156,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chief scientist?

A Chief Scientist is a senior executive responsible for overseeing the scientific research and innovation within an organization. They set the strategic direction for scientific projects, guide research teams, and ensure that scientific initiatives align with the company's goals. Chief Scientists often represent their organizations in scientific communities and may advise on policy, technology adoption, and research funding. Their role is critical in driving scientific excellence and translating research into real-world applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief scientist?

To thrive as a Chief Scientist, you need advanced expertise in your scientific field, often demonstrated by a PhD and a strong track record of research and publications. Familiarity with data analysis software, laboratory management systems, and grant-writing processes is typically required. Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills set top candidates apart by enabling them to guide teams and convey complex concepts to diverse audiences. These skills and qualities are essential for driving innovation, securing funding, and ensuring the success of scientific initiatives.

How does a chief scientist typically collaborate with other departments to drive innovation within an organization?

A Chief Scientist often works closely with cross-functional teams, including engineering, product development, and business strategy departments, to ensure scientific research aligns with organizational goals. This role involves leading research initiatives, mentoring scientific staff, and translating complex findings for non-technical stakeholders. Effective collaboration is essential, as the Chief Scientist guides decision-making on new technologies, fosters a culture of innovation, and often represents the organization in external partnerships or industry forums.

What is the difference between Chief Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectChief ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (PhD), extensive experience, leadership skillsTypically a PhD or Master's, specialized research experience
Work EnvironmentStrategic, leadership-focused, overseeing projects and teamsHands-on research, experimentation, data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageR&D departments, technology firms, scientific organizationsUniversities, research labs, corporate R&D

The main difference between a Chief Scientist and a Research Scientist lies in their roles and responsibilities. The Chief Scientist focuses on strategic leadership, overseeing research initiatives, and guiding scientific direction. In contrast, the Research Scientist is primarily involved in conducting experiments, analyzing data, and developing new knowledge within their field. Both roles require advanced degrees, but the Chief Scientist typically has more leadership experience and a broader scope of responsibilities.

More about Chief Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Chief Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Chief Scientist job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Chief Scientist jobs? The top employers for Chief Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Chief Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Chief Scientist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chief Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chief Scientist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Chief Scientist jobs? For Chief Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Chief Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,971 per year, or $69.2 per hour.

Chief Scientist

ManTech

Washington, DC • Hybrid

$128K - $214K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

ManTech rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 242 rated software companies

Job description

Description & Requirements
Unlock the secrets of intelligence with MANTECH! Join a dynamic team at the forefront of national security, providing advanced solutions to government intelligence agencies. Since 1968, we've been solving the toughest challenges with groundbreaking tech. Explore thrilling projects in Digital Transformation, Cybersecurity, IT, Data Analytics and Software Development. Elevate your career and make a difference. Your adventure begins now-unleash your potential with MANTECH!
***This is for a future opportunity***

MANTECH seeks a career and customer-oriented Chief Scientist to join our team in Washington, D.C. This is a hybrid position with 1 day onsite and 4 days remote per week.


The role requires an individual with a unique combination of deep technical knowledge, managerial acumen, and extensive experience within the DHS or Department of War (DoW) acquisition ecosystems.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Provide executive-level technical leadership and strategic oversight for scientific research, innovation, development, and technology strategies
  • Establish long-term research and development priorities that align with S&T and DHS Headquarters objectives
  • Oversee scientific methodologies, data collection, and analysis processes to ensure validity and reliability
  • Act as a liaison between customers and external stakeholders and other DHS components
  • Ensure the delivery of scalable, secure-by-design solutions that provide a decisive advantage in Homeland Security environments by bridging the gap between theoretical algorithms and operational DHS requirements
  • Ensure that all deliverables meet DHS S&T quality standards
  • Serve as a key bridge between mission requirements and technical implementation, ensuring that Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation efforts are consistently documented to support procurement decisions

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Sciences, or a related field
  • 12+ years of relevant work experience
  • 3+ years of experience with prototype development projects
  • Experience with DHS acquisition policy and DHS systems engineering lifecycle
  • Proven experience in developing complex technical reports and briefings for senior leadership

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree or PhD in Engineering, Sciences, or a related field
  • War Acquisition University (WAU) or DHS System Engineering or Test and
    Evaluation Certification
  • Comprehensive understanding of DHS Acquisition Management Instruction
    102-01

Security Clearance Requirements:

  • Must possess active Top Secret clearance

Physical Requirements:

  • The person in this position must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time
  • Occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, or to communicate with co-workers, management, and customers, via email, phone, and or virtual communication, which may involve delivering presentations

The projected compensation range for this position is $128,800.00-$214,500.00. There are differentiating factors that can impact a final salary/hourly rate, including, but not limited to, Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location (For Remote Opportunities), education and certifications as well as Federal Government Contract Labor categories.  In addition, MANTECH invests in its employees beyond just compensation.  MANTECH's benefits offerings include, dependent upon position, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, short-term and long-term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections.

MANTECH considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to disability or veteran status or any other status protected under any federal, state, or local law or regulation.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position with MANTECH, please email us at careers@mantech.com and provide your name and contact information.

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