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Innovation Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kuli Kuli

Innovation Manager

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

$80K - $100K/yr

Kuli Kuli is looking for an Innovation Manager with experience in consumer packaged goods (CPG) product development and manufacturing. This person will work with cross-functional teams to lead ...

Minth North America

Innovation Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

About the Job As an Innovation Manager, you'll support our frontier technology initiatives. Track market and technology trends, research startups and technology companies, prepare management ...

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Innovation Manager information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$96.3K

$114.5K

How much do innovation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for innovation manager in California is $96,305.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,800.00 and $103,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an innovation manager do?

Innovation managers design processes or help implement new technologies that improve operations at a company or aids development of new products or services. Specific job duties vary, depending on the company and industry. But all innovation managers must have several years of experience in their particular industry and have a history of cultivating ideas from inception through production or implementation. Innovation managers usually research market trends and facilitate brainstorming sessions within their company. They can recognize good opportunities and turn them into profitable products or creative solutions for their company.

How does an innovation manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive new initiatives?

Innovation Managers often work closely with departments such as R&D, marketing, operations, and IT to identify opportunities and implement creative solutions. They facilitate brainstorming sessions, coordinate pilot projects, and ensure alignment between different teams to move ideas from concept to execution. Strong communication and project management skills are essential for building consensus and tracking progress, making the role highly interactive and collaborative. This cross-functional teamwork not only fosters diverse perspectives but also accelerates the adoption of innovative practices across the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an innovation manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Innovation Manager, you need a strong background in business strategy, project management, and creative problem-solving, often supported by a relevant degree and experience driving innovation initiatives. Familiarity with innovation management platforms, design thinking methodologies, and data analysis tools is highly valuable. Exceptional communication, leadership, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for influencing stakeholders and fostering a culture of innovation. These skills enable Innovation Managers to effectively identify opportunities, implement new ideas, and drive organizational growth in a competitive market.

What is the difference between Innovation Manager vs Product Manager?

AspectInnovation ManagerProduct Manager
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; often MBA or related certificationsBachelor's degree; often MBA or related certifications
Work EnvironmentFocus on developing new ideas, strategic planning, cross-department collaborationFocus on product lifecycle, market research, customer needs, and product delivery
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries to foster innovation and growthCommon in tech, retail, and manufacturing sectors for product development

While both roles require strategic thinking and collaboration, Innovation Managers focus on creating and implementing new ideas and strategies, whereas Product Managers oversee the development and lifecycle of specific products. Understanding these differences helps organizations assign the right responsibilities and candidates for each role.

More about Innovation Manager jobs

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

The most popular types of Innovation jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Innovation Manager jobs in California?

For Innovation Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Innovation Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Innovation Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Innovation Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Innovation Manager job openings:

Innovation Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Innovation Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,305 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

Innovation Manager

Oakland, CA • On-site, Remote

Kuli Kuli
Food Services and Drinking Places • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Kuli Kuliexternal

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Kuli Kuli is a high-growth startup at the intersection of CPG and social good. We are the leading brand pioneering sustainable superfoods like moringa in the US. Moringa is a naturally energizing green superfood packed with protein, antioxidants and vitamins. Kuli Kuli offers the highest quality, most nutritious superfoods by partnering with local entrepreneurs and sourcing directly from small farmers, prioritizing African and women-led social enterprises. Kuli Kuli’s superfood powders and snacks are sold in 11,000 stores nationwide and online at kulikulifoods.com. We’ve been featured in Forbes, NPR, and The Wall Street Journal for our unique products and compelling social mission.  Kuli Kuli is looking for an Innovation Manager with experience in consumer packaged goods (CPG) product development and manufacturing. This person will work with cross-functional teams to lead internal innovation processes, owning the master timeline and key deliverables. This position also owns packaging copy and labeling, including claims reviews, nutritional panels, and provides content for sales presentations. This person will also support our Operations team with ingredient sourcing, paperwork and certifications, with a specific eye towards impactful sourcing. We are looking for a detail-oriented individual who loves juggling multiple projects and working under tight deadlines to achieve incredible products. Areas of Responsibility * Innovation & Renovation - Manage product renovations and new product development from ideation to launch. * Sourcing & Vendor Partnerships - Manage search and assessment of manufacturers, suppliers, and other vendors when needed. * Package Design & Labeling - Own package structure, inputs and timelines in coordination with our design firm, including updates, claims reviews, and nutritional panels. Provide content support for sales presentations. * Certifications - manage third-party certification process for new products and update certifying bodies with relevant product formula or ingredient source changes. * Consumer Insights - support consumer insights strategy and research. * Impact - Manage impact tracking, assessment, strategy, and ad hoc impact projects. Required Skills/Experience * 3+ years hands-on experience in CPG product development or product marketing, or project management experience in related field * Ability to keep multiple project timelines on track simultaneously * Organized, with excellent prioritization and time management skills * Strong attention to detail * Creative problem solving Hours & Compensation Kuli Kuli provides competitive compensation, performance bonuses, and strong benefits including full healthcare, 401k match, and unlimited time off. For this position, the annual salary range is $80,000-$100,000 base salary plus equity and bonuses. This full time position can be either remote (anywhere in the US) or based out of our dynamic space near the beautiful waterfront of Lake Merritt in Oakland, CA. Perks include unlimited product, a gym membership, and regular team outings. Kuli Kuli was born out of a recognition that there are injustices in the world, such as global malnutrition, income inequality, and gender inequality. As a company, we commit to addressing these injustices not only in the products we provide, but also in our operations, supply chains, and internal culture. Kuli Kuli strongly encourages applicants from a diverse array of backgrounds. Application Instruction Please apply through our job's portal via our website: kulikulifoods.com/pages/jobs. Any submissions here will not be reviewed. Thank you!