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Director Of Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

River Partners

Science Director

Sacramento, CA · On-site

The Science Director will lead the efforts of River Partners' Science Team to conceive, plan, permit, deliver, and monitor large-scale habitat restoration projects that contribute to our mission ...

River Partners

Science Director

Sacramento, CA · On-site

The Science Director will lead the efforts of River Partners' Science Team to conceive, plan, permit, deliver, and monitor large-scale habitat restoration projects that contribute to our mission ...

Grifols, S.A

Director of Manufacturing Science

San Diego, CA · On-site

$199 - $270/hr

... Director, Manufacturing Science role based in California, is $199,000.00 - $270,000.00 per year. Additionally, the position is eligible to participate in up to 30% of the company bonus pool. We offer ...

Grifols

Director of Manufacturing Science

San Diego, CA · On-site

$199K - $270K/yr

... Director, Manufacturing Science role based in California, is $199,000.00 - $270,000.00 per year. Additionally, the position is eligible to participate in up to 30% of the company bonus pool. We offer ...

Coupang

Director of Data Science

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$174K - $299K/yr

Role Overview Coupang is seeking a Director of Data Science to lead high-impact, data-driven initiatives across the business. This leader will be responsible for shaping and executing data science ...

Brigit

Director of Data Science

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$225K - $250K/yr

To support this growth, we'd like to hire a motivated Director of Data Science to grow and lead this team to its maximum potential. What you'll be doing: * Managing and growing a team of data ...

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All JobsOf Science JobsDirector Of Science JobsDirector Of Science Jobs in California

Director Of Science information

See California salary details

$79.4K

$110.4K

$142.1K

How much do director of science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of science in California is $110,411.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $123,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the roles and responsibilities of a director of science?

A Director of Science is a senior leader responsible for overseeing scientific research, strategy, and operations within an organization. They manage research teams, develop scientific initiatives, and ensure projects align with the organization's goals. Their duties often include setting research priorities, securing funding, fostering innovation, and maintaining compliance with ethical and regulatory standards. Directors of Science also facilitate communication between scientists and executive leadership, helping translate complex scientific findings into actionable business strategies.

What are some common challenges faced by a director of science, and how can candidates prepare for them?

Directors of Science often navigate the challenge of balancing administrative duties with scientific leadership, such as managing budgets, overseeing multiple research projects, and ensuring regulatory compliance. They are also responsible for fostering collaboration among diverse teams of scientists and stakeholders, which can require strong communication and conflict resolution skills. To prepare, candidates should develop a solid foundation in both scientific expertise and organizational management, and seek opportunities to lead interdisciplinary initiatives. Staying current with advancements in their field and building effective mentorship practices are also essential for long-term success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of science, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Science, you need advanced expertise in scientific research, project management, and leadership, typically supported by a PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant scientific field. Familiarity with data analysis software, laboratory management systems, and regulatory compliance standards is often required. Exceptional communication, strategic thinking, and team-building skills help drive innovation and align scientific objectives with organizational goals. These abilities ensure effective oversight of research initiatives, resource allocation, and the achievement of impactful scientific outcomes.

What is the difference between Director Of Science vs Research Scientist?

AspectDirector Of ScienceResearch Scientist
CredentialsAdvanced degrees (PhD), leadership experienceTypically PhD or Master's in relevant field
Work EnvironmentLeadership, strategic planning, team managementHands-on research, experimentation, data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, corporations, biotech firmsUniversities, research labs, R&D departments
Search & Comparison IntentLeadership roles, strategic research directionTechnical research, experimental work

The main difference is that the Director Of Science oversees research strategies and manages teams, while Research Scientists focus on conducting experiments and technical research. The Director Of Science has a broader leadership role, often requiring management experience, whereas Research Scientists are more hands-on with scientific work.

What does a director of science do?

A director of science oversees scientific research and development within an organization, setting strategic goals, managing research teams, and ensuring projects align with business objectives. They often coordinate with other departments, review data, and may require expertise in specific scientific fields and leadership skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Of Science jobs in California?

The most popular types of Of Science jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Director Of Science jobs in California?

For Director Of Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Director Of Science jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Of Science jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Director Of Science jobs?

Cities in California with the most Director Of Science job openings:

Director Of Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Of Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,411 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

Science Director

River Partners

Sacramento, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Company Description
River Partners' helps local communities reconnect and revitalize floodplains and river landscapes across the state of California. We are a private, non-profit organization with offices in Chico, Sacramento, Turlock, and San Diego. As a project-focused company, we believe in the power of demonstrating environmental improvement through large-scale river restoration and empowering others through partnership and collaboration.
Job Description
The Science Director will lead the efforts of River Partners' Science Team to conceive, plan, permit, deliver, and monitor large-scale habitat restoration projects that contribute to our mission, influence policy improvements, and support our financial model. The Science Director will oversee and train all personnel in the Biology Department and be responsible for building the organization's capacity and partnerships to generate and communicate scientific advancements to government, academic and private sector partners.
Essential functions and responsibilities include:
Lead the Science team:
• Provide guidance and oversight for restoration project site assessment, planning,
permitting, installation and monitoring
• Cultivate strategic external project and agency partnerships to support rigorous
scientific study of our restoration projects and their effects on the environment and
people
• Communicate our work and scientific contributions with River Partners' Board of
Directors, staff and partners
• Participate in the recruitment and training of new Science Team members
Assist the Development and Implementation Teams:
• Provide guidance and oversight for restoration project proposals and implementation
plans
• Cultivate strategic external partnerships with academic researchers, vendors, neighbors
and partner organizations to deliver new projects, novel approaches and relevant
ecological outcomes supporting our mission
• Communicate science developments and conservation initiatives with River Partners'
development and implementation staff during regular meetings and trainings
• Work with the President, emeritus staff, external partners and senior Development
Team members to evaluate opportunities for organizational expansion and new
program areas
Assist the Advancement team:
• Create written and verbal communication pieces in collaboration with the Advancement
Director to support fundraising
• Provide Science oversight for proposals and pitches for foundation and private
fundraising
• Contribute to River Partners' blog, social media, and web presence with photos, written
content, and links
Qualifications
Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Qualifications:
• Ability, vision, and energy to lead River Partners' Science Program
• Experience and knowledge of river restoration ecology across the Western US
• Interest, enthusiasm, and ability to write and implement habitat restoration plans
• Experience in wildlife, wetland and vegetation survey techniques
• PhD in related field
• At least 10 years of relevant professional experience
• A self-starter who can work individually or on a team and succeed with limited direction,
under changing conditions
• Ability to navigate differences of opinion with poise and focus
• Unsurpassed written communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work under pressure, multitask, and prioritize workload
• Demonstrated experience designing, implementing and monitoring restoration projects
• Familiarity with environmental permitting
• Flexible schedule - early morning, late evening and weekend hours on occasion
• Valid California Driver's License, and a clean driving record
Additional Information
To apply email your resume, cover letter and 3 references to: Jobs AT riverpartners.org Or send an application via mail to: River Partners Attn: Science Director 580 Vallombrosa Ave Chico CA 95926
Videos To Watch
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