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Manager R&D Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

R.D. Olson

Project Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$96K - $140K/yr

Project Manager - R.D. Olson Construction | SoCal Southern California | Commercial GC | Hospitality + Multifamily Are you a PM who wants more ownership, faster growth, and bigger impact? We're ...

Mitch Miles

MANAGER R&D-HIGH PROTEINS

Irvine, CA · On-site

Execute and manage all aspects of R&D throughout the entire lifecycle, spanning from conceptualization to post-launch. Responsibilities encompass formulating, designing, and conducting experiments ...

R.D. Olson

Project Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

Project Manager - R.D. Olson Construction | SoCal Southern California | Commercial GC | Hospitality + Multifamily Are you a PM who wants more ownership, faster growth, and bigger impact? We're ...

R D Olson Construction

Project Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$96K - $140K/yr

Project Manager - R.D. Olson Construction | SoCal Southern California | Commercial GC | Hospitality + Multifamily Are you a PM who wants more ownership, faster growth, and bigger impact? We're ...

ALIGN Executive Search

R & D Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

Communicate project status, risks, and opportunities to the project team and management * Contribute to the company's IP base through active idea generation and concept development * Assemble product ...

ALIGN Executive Search

R & D Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

Communicate project status, risks, and opportunities to the project team and management * Contribute to the company's IP base through active idea generation and concept development * Assemble product ...

R.D. Olson

Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Why Top Performers Choose R.D. Olson ➡️ You'll grow fast. From day one, you're part of our Project Manager Career Ladder -- supported by RD Olson University and mentors who've been in your shoes ...

R D Olson Construction

Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Why Top Performers Choose R.D. Olson ➡ You'll grow fast. From day one, you're part of our Project Manager Career Ladder - supported by RD Olson University and mentors who've been in your shoes. ➡ ...

R.D. Olson

Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$65 - $96/hr

Why Top Performers Choose R.D. Olson * You'll grow fast. From day one, you're part of our Project Manager Career Ladder -- supported by RD Olson University and mentors who've been in your shoes.

D. R. Horton

Land Development Purchasing Manager

Corona, CA · On-site

$135 - $165/hr

D.R. Horton, Inc. is currently looking for a Purchasing Manager . The right candidate will oversee the Purchasing Department and all sourcing for equipment, goods and services. Responsible to perform ...

Masimo

Engineer, Failure Analysis

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Works closely with Compliance, Regulatory, R &D Engineering, Operations and QA at various levels ... divisional management. * Perform other duties and projects as assigned. Minimum & Preferred ...

Masimo

Engineer, Failure Analysis

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Works closely with Compliance, Regulatory, R &D Engineering, Operations and QA at various levels ... divisional management. * Perform other duties and projects as assigned. Minimum & Preferred ...

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All JobsR&D JobsManager R&D JobsManager R&D Jobs in Irvine, CA

Manager R D information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$24.7K

$65.9K

$110K

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

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for manager r&d in Irvine, CA is $65,854.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,200.00 and $74,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 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.

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 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 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.

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

In the United States, R&D managers typically earn a median annual salary of around $130,000 to $150,000, depending on industry, experience, and location. They often hold advanced degrees and oversee research teams, budgets, and project development in technology, pharmaceuticals, or manufacturing sectors.

Is a manager R&D a good job?

A manager R&D oversees research and development teams, focusing on innovation, product development, and process improvements. It typically requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and project management skills, and offers opportunities for career advancement and competitive compensation.

Is research and development stressful as a career?

Research and development (R&D) careers can be stressful due to tight deadlines, high expectations for innovation, and the need for problem-solving under pressure. R&D managers often balance project management, technical challenges, and team coordination, which can contribute to work-related stress, especially during critical phases of product development or innovation cycles.

What job categories do people searching Manager R&D jobs in Irvine, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Manager R&D jobs in Irvine, CA are:

Manager R D jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manager R&D job openings in Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,854 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Project Manager

Irvine, CA • On-site

R.D. Olson
Construction • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about R.D. Olsonexternal

$96K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Project Manager – R.D. Olson Construction | SoCal
Southern California | Commercial GC | Hospitality + MultifamilyAre you a PM who wants more ownership, faster growth, and bigger impact?
We’re looking for a high-performing Project Manager to lead signature $20M–$40M projects across SoCal. If you thrive in the field, love solving problems, and want a fast track to senior leadership — we want to talk.Why This Role Matters
At R.D. Olson, we don’t hire PMs to push paper.
We hire them to own the outcome.
You’ll lead high-profile builds  — from buyout through punch list. You’ll be the point of contact for clients, run the weekly site meetings, and drive real-time results with your team. Our PMs don’t wait for approvals — they lead, mentor, and deliver.What You’ll Do
✔ Manage full lifecycle of $20M–$40M hospitality, housing, or education projects
✔ Lead buyouts, precon, scheduling, safety, and field coordination
✔ Run subcontractor and owner meetings — and actually move the needle
✔ Identify value-engineering wins and track profitability
✔ Mentor PEs and APMs — grow the next generation
✔ Leverage AI and tech to drive smarter, faster decisionsWhat You Bring
✔ 2–5 years of PM or APM experience with a commercial GC
✔ Degree in Construction Management or related field
✔ Strong skills in Microsoft Project, Excel, Procore (or similar)
✔ Experience in hospitality, multifamily, or private education preferred
✔ You own your results — and your team’sWhat You’ll Get
✔ $96,475 – $140,000 base + performance & project bonuses
✔ Auto allowance + fuel
✔ 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision
✔ 401(k) with match (Traditional & Roth)
✔ RD Olson University + Tuition Reimbursement
✔ Volunteer Days + Team-First CultureReady to Build the Career You Came Here For?
Apply now to start a confidential conversation.
https://www.rdolson.com/culture-and-careers/#jobs

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