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Product Development Lab Manager Jobs in Addison, IL

VTech Electronics

Product Specialist

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$63K - $73.50K/yr

Manage and organize the Product Development Lab. * Aid Product Development team in all technical delivery aspects of project - downloading files, programs, and other devices. * Review online consumer ...

TMA

Product Development Technician

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$35/hr

Product Development Technician If you're looking for a special place to build or grow your career ... Manage inventory of test components and consumables. * Support procurement of lab materials and ...

LeapFrog

Product Specialist

Arlington Heights, IL · Hybrid

Manage and organize the Product Development Lab. * Aid Product Development team in all technical delivery aspects of project - downloading files, programs, and other devices. * Review online consumer ...

VTech Electronics

Product Specialist

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$63K - $73.50K/yr

Manage and organize the Product Development Lab. * Aid Product Development team in all technical delivery aspects of project - downloading files, programs, and other devices. * Review online consumer ...

Molex

New Product Development Manager

Lisle, IL · On-site

$112.90K - $141K/yr

Molex is seeking an experienced New Product Development Manager to join our Copper Solutions team responsible for leading the development of high speed datacom and telecom solutions used in AI ...

Humetis Group

Product Development Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

Serve as a technical steward of brand standards, contributing to product innovation, renovation, and change management initiatives. * Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, Quality, Manufacturing ...

IDEX

Product Development Technician

Wheeling, IL

$35/hr

Fluid Management has created a global product development environment through strategic growth ... Manage inventory of test components and consumables. * Support procurement of lab materials and ...

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Product Development Lab Manager information

See Addison, IL salary details

$42.6K

$127.2K

$144.8K

How much do product development lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for product development lab manager in Addison, IL is $127,225.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,700.00 and $143,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Product Development Lab Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Product Development Lab Manager, you need a solid background in product development processes, laboratory management, and a relevant scientific or engineering degree. Familiarity with lab management software, quality control systems, and regulatory compliance certifications such as ISO standards is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help drive innovation and ensure effective coordination among cross-functional teams. These skills are crucial for maintaining efficient lab operations, ensuring compliance, and delivering high-quality products on time.

How does a Product Development Lab Manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the product development process?

As a Product Development Lab Manager, you will regularly collaborate with teams such as R&D, engineering, marketing, and quality assurance. This involves coordinating product testing, ensuring adherence to timelines, and communicating technical results to non-technical stakeholders. Effective collaboration is crucial for aligning product specifications, resolving challenges quickly, and ensuring that the final product meets both technical and market requirements. Strong communication and project management skills are key for success in this role.

What does a Product Development Lab Manager do?

A Product Development Lab Manager oversees the operations of a laboratory where new products are created, tested, and refined. They manage lab staff, ensure equipment is maintained, and ensure that research and development activities comply with safety and quality standards. Their role often involves coordinating between research teams, production, and quality assurance to bring new products from concept to market. They also play a key role in budgeting, resource allocation, and maintaining documentation for regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Product Development Lab Manager vs Product Development Scientist?

AspectProduct Development Lab ManagerProduct Development Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Biology, or related field; management experienceDegree in Chemistry, Biology, or related field; research experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, overseeing teams, managing projectsLaboratories, conducting experiments, developing products
Employer & IndustryConsumer goods, pharmaceuticals, biotech companiesResearch institutions, R&D departments in similar industries
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial roles in product developmentResearching scientific roles in product creation

The Product Development Lab Manager focuses on overseeing laboratory operations, managing teams, and ensuring project timelines, while the Product Development Scientist is primarily involved in conducting experiments and developing new products. Both roles require relevant scientific credentials and work within similar industry environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are popular job titles related to Product Development Lab Manager jobs in Addison, IL? For Product Development Lab Manager jobs in Addison, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Product Development Lab Manager jobs in Addison, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Product Development Lab Manager jobs in Addison, IL are:
What cities near Addison, IL are hiring for Product Development Lab Manager jobs? Cities near Addison, IL with the most Product Development Lab Manager job openings:
Product Development Lab Manager jobs near you
Product Development Manager - Dog & Cat Regulated Products

Product Development Manager - Dog & Cat Regulated Products

Central Garden & Pet

Schaumburg, IL • On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Central Garden & Pet rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Central Garden & Pet

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 67,775 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Central Garden & Pet

  • 97%

    97% say they get paid breaks

    say they get paid breaks

  • 94%

    94% say it is easy to take sick days

    say it is easy to take sick days

  • 94%

    94% say they don’t worry about hours

    say they don’t worry about hours

Featured by Central Garden & Pet, based on 40 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees

Job description

Description

Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ:CENT), is a leading innovator, marketer and producer of high-quality branded products for the pet, lawn and garden markets. We are seeking a creative, driven, and forward-thinking R&D Product Development Manager to help shape the future of our Pet Health & Wellness portfolio, including the ADAMS (adamspetcare.com), Comfort Zone (comfortzone.com), and Sulfodene (sulfodene.com) brands.  In this role, you will lead and coordinate the development of new products focused on dog and cat health, nutrition, and behavior, guiding projects from initial concept through completion. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to prepare each product for federal or state regulatory approval, licensing or registration.  While we are open to all candidates who live within 30 miles of a Central location, we do prioritize candidates in Chicago, where many of the marketing team is located or Dallas where most of Research and Development team is located.  If you are ready to take the next exciting step in your research and development career, we’d love to hear from you!
 
Please see our website for additional company information – www.central.com 
 
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 
  • Lead the development of new Pet Health & Wellness products from concept through commercialization, partnering with cross-functional teams including R&D, Regulatory, Quality, Marketing, Legal, Procurement, and Manufacturing.
  • Develop and manage project plans, timelines, and milestones to ensure on-time execution and clear communication across all stakeholders.
  • Design and oversee stability studies to validate product shelf life, ingredient stability, and label; select and manage external testing laboratories as needed.
  • Provide technical expertise to support product claims, labeling, and marketing materials before and after product launch, in collaboration with Marketing, Regulatory, and Legal teams.
  • Conduct literature reviews on active ingredients to support product development and substantiation of claims, particularly for supplement and/or pheromone products.
  • Collaborate with New Business Development and Marketing to investigate new product concepts and innovation opportunities for U.S. and international markets.
  • Ensure products meet internal quality standards and comply with applicable federal, state, and international regulatory requirements by partnering closely with Regulatory Affairs and cross-functional teams, and by supporting quality and compliance initiatives, including SOP development and continuous improvement efforts.
  • Stay current on scientific, regulatory, and industry trends through professional publications, continuing education, and scientific conferences.
  • Provide technical support to Consumer Care by assisting with responses to customer inquiries related to product efficacy, usage, and concerns; develop accurate, science-based guidance and leverage consumer feedback to inform continuous improvement, quality enhancements, and future product innovation.
QUALIFICATIONS 
Technical & Regulatory Expertise
  • Familiarity with AAFCO and NASC regulations governing animal feeds, supplements, and feed ingredients strongly preferred.
  • Experience supporting regulated products, including labeling, claims substantiation, and compliance activities.
Skills & Competencies
  • Strong project management skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders, including non-technical teams, to achieve project objectives.
  • Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and database systems.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external partners.
  • Highly detail-oriented, organized, and results-driven, with a strong commitment to quality and compliance. 
MINIMUM EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION 
  • Master of Science (MS) in Animal Science or a related discipline required; PhD or DVM preferred.
  • 5–10 years of relevant experience in research, product development, and/or project management within regulated animal health, nutrition, or pet care industries, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Working knowledge of pet nutrition and/or animal behavior.

WORKING CONDITIONS 

  • Comfortable, office environment; frequent use of phone and PC; required overnight business travel approximately 10% of the time after onboarding
  • Laboratory and on-location field sites.  Safety apparel is required in the lab or production areas, i.e. safety glasses (always), lab coat, gloves, respirators or dust masks (as appropriate).
 
POSITION INFORMATION 
This position pays approximately $110,000 - $140,000 annually, based on prior related product development experience in animal health, nutrition & behavior, geographic location, and academic background. This position may also be eligible for an annual discretionary management incentive.
 
BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS 
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Free Life and Disability Insurance
  • Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • 401k with 3% company match 
  • Paid vacation, holidays and sick time
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Access to thousands of free online courses
  • Discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more!
  • Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional certifications)
  • Referral Program with cash bonus
  • Access to on-demand pay
  • Paid parental leave
 
Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) is a leading consumer goods company in the pet and garden industries. Guided by the belief that home is central to life, the Company's purpose is to proudly nurture happy and healthy homes. For over 45 years, its innovative and trusted solutions have helped lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a diversified portfolio of market-leading brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Best Bully Sticks®, Cadet®, C&S®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Kaytee®, Nylabone®, Pennington®, Sevin® and Zoёcon®. With fiscal 2025 net sales of $3.1 billion, Central has strong manufacturing and logistics capabilities supported by a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. The Company is headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, and employs over 6,000 people, primarily across North America. Visit www.central.com to learn more.
 
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. 
  
#LI-CM1 

Working at Central Garden & Pet

Perks for frontline workers

From Central Garden & Pet, via Breakroom

  • Safety is a top priority!

  • Paid Vacation

  • Paid Holidays

  • Paid Sick Time

  • Paid Breaks

  • Consistent shift and schedule

  • Comprehensive Health Insurance

  • 401k with Company Match

  • Referral Program with Cash Bonus

  • Education Assistance

  • Paid Parental Leave

About Central Garden & Pet, in their own words

From Central Garden & Pet

Our leading consumer and professional brands provide forward-thinking, high quality products to care for your lawn, garden, pets and community. We are committed to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier and communities grow stronger.

Company values

From Central Garden & Pet

The Central Way | We Do the Right Thing | We Strive to be the Best | We are Entrepreneurial | We Win Together | We Grow Every Day | We are Passionate

Diversity and inclusion statement

From Central Garden & Pet

Central Garden & Pet is committed to building a great place to work that embraces diversity as a key pillar of our culture. This is a journey, and we are committed to listening, learning and doing the work to move forward together.

What Central Garden & Pet employees say

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Benefits

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