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Head Of Research Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GDH

Director of Research & Development

Rogers, AR · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Lead raw material qualification processes, including research and approval of new packaging materials and raw ingredients. * Manage the R&D laboratory and team to support prototype development and ...

New

Socket.dev

Head of Research & Insights

Morristown, NJ · On-site

$150 - $230/hr

... and trusted voice of the customer. * Synthesize diverse data sources (research, behavioral ... Embed insights into product development, marketing, and customer experience to drive ...

RadNet, Inc.

Head of Research & Insights

Morristown, NJ · On-site

$131 - $234/hr

As Head of Insights & Research, you will build a modern, enterprise-wide insights capability that ... Embed insights into product development, marketing, and customer experience to drive ...

Murad

Global Head of R&D

El Segundo, CA · On-site

The Global Head of R&D leads the strategy and execution of product innovation, formulation, packaging development, regulatory compliance, clinical testing, and efficacy/claims substantiation to ...

Murad

Global Head of R&D

El Segundo, CA · Hybrid

The Global Head of R&D leads the strategy and execution of product innovation, formulation, packaging development, regulatory compliance, clinical testing, and efficacy/claims substantiation to ...

FUJIFILM Biotechnologies

Ensure sound management of head count and expenses to meet approved spending plan while achieving ... R&D functions, including advancing opportunities for innovation, finding ways to enhance ...

Connect Chemicals GmbH

$94.53 - $129.98/hr

Head of Research & Process Development (m/f/x) Connect Chemicals is an owner-managed company with more than 25 years of experience in the production and distribution of specialty chemicals. With over ...

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Head Of Research Development information

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$65.5K

$162.7K

$215K

How much do head of research development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for head of research development in the United States is $162,707.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,000.00 and $194,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a head of research development do?

A Head of Research Development leads the planning, coordination, and execution of research initiatives within an organization. They are responsible for identifying new research opportunities, securing funding, managing research teams, and ensuring that projects align with the organization's strategic goals. This role often involves collaborating with external partners, overseeing compliance with regulations, and translating research findings into actionable strategies. A Head of Research Development plays a key role in fostering innovation and maintaining the organization's competitive edge.

What are some common challenges faced by a head of research development when leading cross-functional teams?

A Head of Research Development often encounters challenges in aligning diverse teams—such as scientists, engineers, and business strategists—toward shared project goals. Differences in communication styles, priorities, and technical backgrounds can lead to misunderstandings or delays. Successful leaders in this role foster a collaborative environment by setting clear objectives, encouraging open dialogue, and ensuring that each team member understands how their work contributes to the broader organizational vision. Emphasizing transparency and regular check-ins helps keep projects on track and team morale high.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a head of research development, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Head of Research Development, you need advanced expertise in research methodologies, project management, and a relevant graduate degree, often a Ph.D. or equivalent. Familiarity with data analysis software, research databases, intellectual property systems, and compliance frameworks is typically required. Outstanding leadership, strategic thinking, and excellent communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for driving innovation, ensuring research quality, and aligning projects with organizational goals.

What is the difference between Head Of Research Development vs Research Scientist?

AspectHead Of Research DevelopmentResearch Scientist
Primary FocusOversees research strategies, manages teams, and directs development projectsConducts experiments, analyzes data, and contributes to research findings
Required CredentialsTypically advanced degrees (PhD), leadership experience, project management skillsUsually a PhD or Master's degree in a relevant field
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in R&D departments, strategic planningLaboratory settings, hands-on research activities
Industry UsageCommon in biotech, pharma, tech companies for guiding research teamsFound across research labs, academic institutions, industry research roles

The main difference is that the Head Of Research Development leads and manages research initiatives and teams, focusing on strategy and development, while the Research Scientist conducts experiments and generates research data. Both roles require advanced degrees, but the leadership and strategic responsibilities distinguish the Head Of Research Development from the Research Scientist.

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Head Of Research Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Of Research Development job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, 80% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $162,707 per year, or $78.2 per hour.

Director of Research & Development

GDH

Rogers, AR • On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Role Summary
This position oversees research and development activities related to food ingredients, formulations, and product innovations. It involves leading new product development, process optimization, and quality assurance initiatives to enhance product quality, innovation, and efficiency. The role requires a strong foundation in food science, leadership capabilities, and cross-functional collaboration to support the company’s growth and quality standards.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct research on new ingredients and food products, including sauces, marinades, glazes, batters, and breadings.
  • Develop and refine product formulations to improve quality, flavor, texture, nutritional value, and cost-effectiveness.
  • Perform physical, chemical, and sensory analyses on ingredients and finished products.
  • Create product, process, and packaging specifications aligned with quality and safety standards.
  • Study and implement methods to enhance food qualities such as flavor, color, and microbiological safety.
  • Test new product concepts in laboratory settings and develop processing methods in pilot plant environments.
  • Oversee product scale-up, pilot production, and new product commissioning.
  • Set operational process conditions and FSQA (Food Safety & Quality Assurance) parameters for manufacturing.
  • Analyze operational data to refine product and process specifications.
  • Lead raw material qualification processes, including research and approval of new packaging materials and raw ingredients.
  • Manage the R&D laboratory and team to support prototype development and inter-departmental projects.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field.
  • Proven experience in food product development, formulation, and process optimization.
  • Strong knowledge of food processing, packaging, and quality assurance principles.
  • Leadership experience managing research and development teams or laboratory staff.
  • Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to interpret laboratory and operational data to inform decision-making.
  • Familiarity with scale-up processes from lab to production.
  • Professionalism, strong business acumen, and the ability to work under pressure.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Publishing Pay Range: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00 annually
This position is based in office and requires employee to work on-site.

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