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Manager R&D Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Acxion

Culinary R&D Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Degree from a nationally recognized culinary school. * 5+ years in progressive culinary roles--R&D ... Can manage multiple projects simultaneously. * Ability to travel. PLEASE NOTE: Acxion Foodservice ...

D.R. Horton, Inc

Online Sales Concierge

Schaumburg, IL

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

D.R. Horton, Inc., the largest homebuilder in the U.S., was founded in 1978 and is a publicly ... Manage all incoming internet leads from company website and outsourced companies * Ensure a ...

D.R. Horton, Inc

DVP of Sales

Schaumburg, IL

$200K - $275K/yr

D.R. Horton, Inc., the largest homebuilder in the U.S., was founded in 1978 and is a publicly ... Additional responsibilities include recruiting, training, motivating and managing sales ...

D.R. Horton, Inc

Executive Assistant

Schaumburg, IL

D.R. Horton, Inc., the largest homebuilder in the U.S., was founded in 1978 and is a publicly ... Act as a project manager for special projects, at the request of the Division President, which may ...

D.R. Horton, Inc

Division Counsel

Schaumburg, IL

D.R. Horton, Inc., the largest homebuilder in the U.S., was founded in 1978 and is a publicly ... Review marketing contract and programs; draft documentation as necessary * Assist in managing ...

D.R. Horton, Inc

Escrow Officer

Schaumburg, IL

$55K - $65K/yr

D.R. Horton, Inc., the largest homebuilder in the U.S. , was founded in 1978 and is a publicly ... the Branch Manager. Annual salary range is $55,000 to $65,000. Essential Duties and ...

D.R. Horton, Inc

Customer Service Tech

Schaumburg, IL

$17 - $22.75/hr

D.R. Horton, Inc., the largest homebuilder in the U.S., was founded in 1978 and is a publicly ... Schedules and manages subcontractors to make designated warranty repairs * Ensure all repairs are ...

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All JobsR&D JobsManager R&D JobsManager R&D Jobs in Chicago, IL

Manager R D information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$23.7K

$63.2K

$105.6K

How much do manager r&d jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for manager r&d in Chicago, IL is $63,200.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,300.00 and $71,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Manager R&D, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Manager R&D, you need a solid background in scientific or engineering disciplines, project management expertise, and typically an advanced degree such as a Master's or PhD. Familiarity with research methodologies, data analysis tools, and product development software, along with certifications like PMP, are commonly required. Exceptional leadership, creativity, and communication skills are vital for guiding teams and driving innovation. These competencies ensure successful project execution, effective team collaboration, and the development of cutting-edge solutions in competitive markets.

What skills do you need to be a R&D manager?

An R&D manager needs strong leadership, project management, and communication skills to oversee research teams and coordinate development efforts. Technical expertise in relevant scientific or engineering fields, problem-solving abilities, and familiarity with industry tools and methodologies are also essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Manager R&D vs R&D Engineer?

AspectManager R&DR&D Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, Management experienceBachelor's or Master's in Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, oversees projects, strategic planningDesigns, develops, tests products or processes
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech, manufacturing, pharmaceuticalsFound across similar industries, often in product development

The main difference is that a Manager R&D oversees research teams and strategic projects, while an R&D Engineer focuses on technical development and product design. Managers handle leadership and planning, whereas Engineers execute technical tasks within projects.

What are some common challenges faced by a Manager R&D when leading cross-functional innovation projects?

As a Manager R&D, one of the most common challenges is aligning diverse teams—such as engineering, marketing, and production—toward a shared innovation goal. Balancing creative experimentation with practical constraints like timelines and budgets requires strong project management and communication skills. Additionally, navigating differing priorities and ensuring effective knowledge transfer across departments are key aspects of the role. Proactively facilitating collaboration and maintaining transparency can help overcome these hurdles and drive successful project outcomes.

What does an R&D manager do?

An R&D manager oversees research and development activities within a company, guiding teams to innovate and improve products or processes. They plan projects, allocate resources, and ensure that development goals align with business strategies, often requiring technical expertise and project management skills.

What are Manager R&D?

A Manager R&D, or Research and Development Manager, is responsible for overseeing the research and development activities within an organization. They lead teams of scientists, engineers, or researchers to innovate and develop new products, processes, or technologies. Their role often includes project management, resource allocation, budgeting, and ensuring that R&D goals align with the company’s strategic objectives. Additionally, they may collaborate with other departments, manage intellectual property, and stay updated on industry trends to drive competitive advantage.

Is R&D stressful as a career?

A Manager R&D role can be stressful due to project deadlines, innovation demands, and managing cross-functional teams. It often requires problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations, but stress levels vary depending on company culture and individual workload.

How much do R&D managers make in the US?

R&D managers in the US typically earn an average salary between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior R&D managers or those in high-demand sectors can earn higher compensation, often including bonuses and benefits.
What are popular job titles related to Manager R&D jobs in Chicago, IL? For Manager R&D jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Manager R&D jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Manager R&D jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Manager R D jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manager R&D job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,200 per year, or $30.4 per hour.
Senior Counsel - Global Patents & Innovation

Senior Counsel - Global Patents & Innovation

Kraft Heinz Company

Chicago, IL • On-site

$164K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Kraft Heinz rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

211th of 396 rated food and drinks producers

Job description


Senior Counsel - Global Patents & Innovation at a glance....
This position is part of Kraft Heinz's Legal Department and provides legal counsel to the R&D organization to ensure current and future innovations are appropriately protected. This position reports to Kraft Heinz's Chief Counsel, Global Patents & Innovation, and is expected to bring expertise in patent preparation and prosecution, freedom-to-operate analysis, intellectual property protection strategy, trade secrets, and R&D agreements.
This is a hybrid role requiring 3 days onsite weekly out of 1 of 4 primary locations (See below):
  • World HQ in downtown Chicago, IL (Preferred)
  • R&D Center in Glenview, IL
  • Kraft Heinz Innovation Center - Warrendale, PA
  • Co-HQ in downtown Pittsburgh, PA

What's on the menu?
  • Serve as the primary legal resource for designated business units and technology areas within R&D.
  • Draft, review, and negotiate R&D-related agreements, including non-disclosure, material transfer, joint development, and license agreements.
  • Advise on the appropriate structure and use of R&D agreements to protect IP ownership, exclusivity, and trade secrets.
  • Advise R&D on intellectual property protection strategies, including patent preparation, prosecution decisions, portfolio development, and risk assessment.
  • Drive strategic patent filing decisions aligned with innovation roadmaps and business priorities.
  • Conduct and advise on freedom-to-operate reviews for new technologies and products entering the market.
  • Develop and deliver intellectual property-related training for R&D and other internal stakeholders.
  • Manage and oversee outside counsel to ensure quality and cost-effective legal support.
  • Support compliance with company policies related to signatory authority, ethics, and trade secret protection.
  • Occasional travel may be required.

Recipe for Success - apply now if this sounds like you!
  • Juris Doctor from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials and specialized patent experience.
  • Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
  • Science or technology background in chemistry, biology, engineering, or a related field.
  • 8+ years of legal experience with in-house experience strongly preferred.
  • Significant experience drafting and negotiating R&D agreements and advising on their appropriate use.
  • Experience preparing and prosecuting chemical and packaging-related patent applications.
  • Experience advising R&D on patent prosecution strategy, risks, and portfolio development.
  • Experience conducting freedom-to-operate analyses and assessing third-party patent risk.
  • Ability to work independently, assess risk, and deliver practical, business-focused solutions.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Positive, collaborative approach with the ability to work effectively across all levels of the organization.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage outside counsel effectively.

Our Total Rewards philosophy is to provide a meaningful and flexible spectrum of programs that equitably support our diverse workforce and their families and complement Kraft Heinz' strategy and values.
New Hire Base Salary Range:
$164,200.00 - $205,200.00
Bonus: This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.
The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors
Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family's needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.
Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.
You'll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:
  • Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
  • Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training
  • Emotional - Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
  • Financial - 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Location(s)
Chicago/Aon Center
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Underrepresented Ethnic Minority Groups/Women/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity and other protected classes. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for protected individuals, applicants that require accommodation in the job application process may contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com for assistance.

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