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Lead Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FICO

Analytic Science Lead Scientist

San Diego, CA

$120K - $189K/yr

MS or PhD degree incomputer science, engineering, physics, statistics, mathematics, operations ... Proven ability to lead cross functional teams on medium to large scale projects and handling client ...

FICO

Analytic Science Lead Scientist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $189K/yr

MS or PhD degree in computer science, engineering, physics, statistics, mathematics, operations ... Proven ability to lead cross functional teams on medium to large scale projects and handling client ...

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$27K

$112.7K

$200.5K

How much do lead scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead scientist in the United States is $112,722.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $123,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Scientist, you need advanced expertise in your scientific discipline, a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent), and a strong track record of research and publication. Experience with laboratory management software, data analysis tools (such as R or Python), and relevant safety or regulatory certifications is typically required. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help you guide teams, manage projects, and present findings effectively. These skills and qualities are essential for driving scientific innovation, ensuring research integrity, and achieving organizational objectives.

What is the difference between Lead Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectLead ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees (PhD), extensive research experience, and leadership skillsUsually requires a PhD or Master’s degree with strong research background
Work EnvironmentLeads research projects, manages teams, and collaborates with cross-functional departmentsConducts experiments, analyzes data, and supports research projects under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in biotech, pharmaceuticals, and scientific R&D firmsFound in similar industries, often as entry to mid-level research roles

The main difference between a Lead Scientist and a Research Scientist lies in their responsibilities and experience level. Lead Scientists oversee research projects and manage teams, requiring leadership skills and extensive experience. Research Scientists focus on conducting experiments and data analysis, typically with less managerial responsibility. Both roles require advanced degrees and are integral to scientific research in industry settings.

What are Lead Scientists?

Lead Scientists are senior-level researchers who oversee scientific projects and teams within organizations such as research institutes, universities, or private companies. They are responsible for designing experiments, managing research staff, and ensuring the quality and integrity of scientific work. Lead Scientists often coordinate cross-functional collaborations, contribute to grant writing, and publish findings in scientific journals. Their role requires advanced expertise in their field, strong leadership skills, and the ability to guide complex research initiatives from conception to completion.

How does a Lead Scientist typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during research projects?

As a Lead Scientist, you will frequently work alongside professionals from various disciplines, such as engineers, data analysts, and regulatory specialists. Effective collaboration involves leading project meetings, setting research priorities, and ensuring all team members are aligned with project goals. You'll be responsible for integrating input from different experts, fostering clear communication, and troubleshooting any interdisciplinary challenges that arise. This collaborative approach is essential for driving innovation and ensuring research outcomes meet both scientific and business objectives.
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Lead Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Scientist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,722 per year, or $54.2 per hour.
LEAD SCIENTIST - Process Chemistry

LEAD SCIENTIST - Process Chemistry

Southwest Research Institute - Fulltime

San Antonio, TX

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Southwest Research Institute rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 57 rated research

Job description

Who We Are: Process Chemistry provides analytical support for petrochemical and renewable energy research, with chemistry as its foundation. Work includes testing and evaluating developmental processes, utilizing advanced instrumentation, and fabricating custom sampling systems. The role emphasizes catalyst development, innovative science ideas, and problem-solving to address complex challenges.

Through rigorous chemical principles, advanced tools, and collaborative approaches, Process Chemistry drives efficiency, sustainability, and breakthrough solutions across projects Objectives of this Role: Experience with analytical instrumentation and apparatus relayed to the chemistry and process chemistry work, including chromatography (especially gas chromatography) online instruments a plus. Work is in support of process projects from bench scale to pilot plant size. Seeking a motivated professional to join our Process Chemistry team, contributing in chemistry, catalysts, instrumentation, project execution, and business development.

Ideal candidates are problem-solvers with strong technical expertise and a collaborative mindset Strong leader with experience leading, teaching, mentoring, and training research and technical staff in the area of chemistry related work. Established a substantial and consistent record of technical quality on projects, successful proposals, and/or extensive business development. Have strong visibility and are involved in external professional activities.

Possess advanced expertise, project and business skills, work independently, lead major programs, improve planning and development, and present R&D efforts to clients and the professional community, driving innovation and success. Daily and Monthly Responsibilities: Drive business development by leveraging departmental innovations, lead continuous improvement to boost productivity and sustainability, and collaborate across sections to align technical advancements with strategic objectives. Manage and execute projects in the area of renewables, catalyst and chemistry including method and instrument research and development.

Apply chemistry and catalyst knowledge to optimize processes and improve efficiency while supporting and maintaining instrumentation, participating in research, troubleshooting, and cross-functional collaboration, and contributing to projects from concept through scale-up. Design, conduct, and lead laboratory testing involving bench test facilities and comprehensive data analysis to be able to provide clear and concise summaries to clients and/or technical management. Lead, mentor, train junior staff in technical activities and helping them advance science and project management and chemical concepts.

Written report on all activities including staff, business development, and networking. Requirements: Requires a Masters degree in Chemistry with an emphasis on physical, materials or analytical chemistry. Those with a PhD level degree may have fewer years of industry experience.

Shift work required. 7 years: Related industry experiences including instrumentation, chemistry related methods, Excel in method development, applying expertise in HPLC, spectroscopy, and chromatography for complex analysis. Drive product and process development, create scalable compounds and formulations, and master advanced equipment operation and troubleshooting.

Must have a genuine passion for chemistry and its power to transform society and deliver solutions for clients, with enthusiasm for innovation, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to applying science that improves lives, industries, and communities. Must actively network and establish themselves as a standout leader in the science of chemistry, driving innovation and recognition within the section and department while fostering collaboration and advancing organizational goals. A valid/clear driver's license is required.

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