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Full Time R&D Scientist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

R & D Manager

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Plant Science, Horticulture, Botany, Genetics, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience * 4+ years of commercial cannabis cultivation experience, including direct ...

Director of R & D

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$210K - $240K/yr

Our client, a leading Food Technology Company is seeking a R & D Director. This is a fast growing ... Bachelor's degree in food engineering, food science or a similar discipline; Master's degree or MBA ...

R & D Manager (85690)

El Monte, CA · On-site

$161K - $194K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a related technical discipline required; Master's degree or other advanced degree preferred. Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry or a ...

Job Type Full-time Description GENERAL SUMMARY This is a salaried position in City of Industry, CA ... other sciences to study the principle underlying the processing & deterioration of products.

BioPhase Solutions specializes in recruiting top talented professionals for Southern California's Scientific community. We are currently looking for an R &D Lab Technician to work for a Greater Los ...

S. degree in Food Science required. Advanced degree highly preferred. Minimum of 8 years of formulation and commercialization experience, including 4 years of high protein, low carbohydrate and low ...

Scientist I/II

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

R & D group FLSA Status: Exempt Location: Menlo Park, CA Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 per annum Reports to: Chief Science Officer Scope of Job Job Summary: This Scientist I/II position will ...

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Full Time R D Scientist information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time R&D scientist?

To thrive as a Full Time R&D Scientist, you need a solid background in scientific research, analytical techniques, and typically an advanced degree (such as a Ph.D. or M.S.) in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory instruments, data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, Python, or specialized lab software), and adherence to industry regulations are commonly required. Critical thinking, creativity, and strong communication skills help drive innovation and effective collaboration. These abilities enable R&D Scientists to design experiments, solve complex problems, and deliver impactful results that advance organizational objectives.

What does a full time R&D scientist do?

A Full Time R&D (Research and Development) Scientist is responsible for designing, conducting, and analyzing experiments to develop new products or improve existing ones. They work in a variety of industries, including pharmaceuticals, technology, and manufacturing, to innovate and solve complex problems. Their daily tasks often include literature review, laboratory work, data analysis, and collaboration with other scientists and engineers. R&D Scientists play a crucial role in driving innovation and ensuring their company remains competitive in the market.

What are some common challenges full time R&D scientists face when balancing research innovation with project deadlines?

Full Time R&D Scientists often navigate the challenge of fostering innovation while adhering to strict project timelines and deliverables. Balancing creative experimentation with the need for timely results requires strong project management skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. Additionally, scientists must collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, such as engineers and product managers, to align their research with broader organizational goals. Open communication and adaptability are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring both scientific advancement and project success.

What cities in California are hiring for Full Time R&D Scientist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Full Time R&D Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Full Time R&D Scientist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
include the following:
Program Leadership & Cross-Functional Alignment
  • Work with the Director of R&D to design and execute R&D projects, aligning research priorities with company production and business goals.
  • Establish project goals and priorities in collaboration with Propagation, Cultivation, Processing, and Sales departments.
  • Collaborate with Greenhouse Managers, Planning, and Operations to ensure R&D projects are in line with production requirements and scheduling.
  • Examine key facility production parameters and control system data to generate research projects that support business goals.
  • Identify opportunities to improve quality, yield, and operational efficiency, including evaluation of process, materials, products, and equipment.
  • Ensure R&D projects remain within approved scope and adhere to scheduled completion dates and budget.
  • Supervise, train, and mentor R&D staff (e.g., Cultivation Trial Assistant), providing guidance and performance feedback.

New Genetics, Nursery Partnerships & Strain Library
  • Design and evaluate trials for introducing new cannabis cultivars.
  • Oversee genetics library management as well as evaluation of new genetics and the phenohunting program in partnership with nursery/breeding partners.
  • Work with Mother Plant Greenhouse Manager, planning, sales, and tissue culture staff to guide decisions on retiring and introducing genetics into the production pipeline.

Propagation, Cultivation, & Processing Research
  • Direct trials testing propagation and flowering plant cultivation variables (feed programs, irrigation/fertigation scheduling, substrate/media, planting density, lighting, environmental setpoints, plant training techniques) to optimize yield and quality.
  • Direct research into post-harvest processing parameters (drying, curing) affecting flower quality, potency retention, and terpene preservation.
  • Translate research findings into actionable cultivation recommendations and SOPs, in partnership with Operations and QA.

Data, Documentation & Reporting
  • Work with management to develop and maintain a standardized, centralized database/system to collect, store, and present R&D findings and conclusions.
  • Document all phases of research and development.
  • Present research and development project findings and conclusions to leadership.
  • Other responsibilities assigned by manager.

Supervisory Responsibilities
  • This position supervises the Cultivation and Propagation Trial Assistants and other research and development staff as assigned.

Requirements
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Plant Science, Horticulture, Botany, Genetics, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience
  • 4+ years of commercial cannabis cultivation experience, including direct exposure to propagation, tissue culture, and flowering plant cultivation
  • Demonstrated experience designing, executing, and managing controlled research trials
  • Working knowledge of cannabis genetics and phenotype evaluation
  • Strong data compilation, analysis, and reporting skills
  • Experience managing or mentoring staff
  • Ability to translate research findings into practical, production-ready recommendations
  • Solid experience with MS Office (particularly MS Excel)
  • Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple concurrent projects, and meet deadlines
  • Strong people skills, organization, and meticulous attention to detail

Preferred:
  • Advanced degree in a plant science-related field
  • Familiarity with tissue culture technique and micropropagation
  • Experience with crop steering and environmental control systems
  • Familiarity with tracking genetic lineage and pedigree records
  • Working knowledge of state cannabis cultivation regulations
  • Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including occasional weekends

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to work in conditions typically found in a greenhouse or cultivation facility, including high humidity and varying temperatures
  • Ability to exert up to 15-50 pounds occasionally to lift and move product or equipment
  • Ability to balance, reach, and grasp while climbing on a step stool and/or ladder
  • Ability to crouch, grasp, and lift product above shoulders
  • Ability to be on feet for extended periods while performing job responsibilities

Computer Skills
To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of the following software applications:
  • Internet software
  • Microsoft Office
  • Excel (intermediate to advanced)
  • Business Central

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
None required for this position
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.