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Research And Development Associate Jobs in Pennsylvania

Proposals Development Associate II (Phase II / III) - Remote, US ICON is a global healthcare intelligence and clinical research organisation united by a mission to bring new medicines and treatments ...

Proposals Development Associate II (Early Phase) - Remote, US ICON is a global healthcare intelligence and clinical research organisation united by a mission to bring new medicines and treatments to ...

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Research And Development Associate information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$29.1K

$53.5K

$81.2K

How much do research and development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development associate in Pennsylvania is $53,546.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,600.00 and $60,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Research And Development Associate vs Quality Control Technician?

AspectResearch And Development AssociateQuality Control Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in science or engineeringBachelor's degree in science or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, product development teamsManufacturing facilities, labs, quality assurance departments
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, consumer goods, biotech companiesFood production, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing plants
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Research And Development Associates focus on creating and improving products through experimentation and innovation, working mainly in labs and development teams. Quality Control Technicians primarily ensure product quality by testing and inspecting products during manufacturing. While both roles require scientific knowledge and lab skills, R&D Associates are more involved in development, whereas QC Technicians focus on quality assurance during production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research and development associate?

To thrive as a Research and Development Associate, you need a strong background in scientific research, data analysis, and typically a relevant degree such as in chemistry, biology, or engineering. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software, and research documentation systems is commonly required. Creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are essential for driving innovation, ensuring accurate results, and effectively collaborating on new product or process development.

What are some common challenges research and development associates face when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

Research and Development Associates often encounter challenges when shifting from academia to industry, such as adapting to faster-paced project timelines, balancing multiple concurrent projects, and focusing on practical, commercially viable solutions rather than purely theoretical research. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—like marketing, production, and quality assurance—is also more prevalent, requiring strong communication and project management skills. Embracing a results-driven approach and learning to effectively communicate findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders are key to success in this role.

What is a research and development associate?

Research and Development (R&D) Associates are professionals who support the creation and improvement of products, services, or processes within an organization. They typically conduct experiments, analyze data, and collaborate with scientists, engineers, or product managers to innovate and solve technical challenges. R&D Associates play a vital role in helping companies remain competitive by driving new ideas from concept to reality. Their work often involves staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and scientific advancements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research And Development jobs in Pennsylvania?

The most popular types of Research And Development jobs in Pennsylvania are:

What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Associate jobs in Pennsylvania?

For Research And Development Associate jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research And Development Associate jobs in Pennsylvania look for?

The top searched job categories for Research And Development Associate jobs in Pennsylvania are:

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Research And Development Associate jobs?

Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Research And Development Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Research And Development Associate job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,546 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

$60K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Wills Eye Hospital rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

98th of 1,059 rated hospitals


Job description

Development Associate

Development Department – Wills Eye Foundation (WEF)
Full-Time | Salary: $60,000 annually

Wills Eye Hospital, recognized globally for excellence in ophthalmology, is seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Development Associate to support the work the Hospital’s philanthropic initiatives. This role provides essential administrative, operational, and donor-facing support to ensure the success of our comprehensive development efforts. Prior experience supporting a development office is required.

Primary Function

The Development Associate provides administrative support for the Foundation and serves as the initial point of contact for donors, patients, colleagues, and alumni of Wills Eye Hospital. This position supports the fundraising efforts of the Foundation and contributes to the work of the entire development team.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  1. Provide administrative support to the Chief Development Officer (CDO) and Foundation Directors, including managing calendars, coordinating travel arrangements, and tracking expenditures for Development Officers.

  2. Support ongoing administrative and project-based activities of the Development team, including:

    • Formatting, typing, and proofreading letters, gift proposals, agendas, and briefing materials.

    • Maintaining accurate database entries to track activity and donor moves for the CDO and Development Officers.

    • Responding to information requests from faculty, staff, alumni, grateful patients, and others.

    • Managing inventory of Foundation materials, brochures, and letterhead.

    • Organizing and maintaining confidential donor and financial records.

    • Assisting with mailings, special events, and other development activities.

    • Using spreadsheets and database programs (including Raiser’s Edge NXT) to maintain accurate donor data.

  3. Assist with gift processing and financial duties as needed.

  4. Answer office phone lines and respond appropriately to inquiries.

  5. Open, review, and distribute mail; manage the Foundation email inbox and ensure timely responses or referrals.

  6. Submit check requests and regularly coordinate with the Finance Department to ensure timely payment.

  7. Prepare donor acknowledgement letters for gifts at all levels within 24–48 hours of receipt.

  8. Conduct basic development research, including prospect identification.

  9. Place phone calls to donors to qualify interest, renew lapsed gifts, and build a donor portfolio over time.

  10. Make thank-you calls regularly and engage donors regarding their reasons for supporting the Foundation.

  11. Provide key support for major special events—including the Wills Eye Ball and annual Golf Outing—including sponsorship outreach, mailing list review, program book development, and day-of-event logistics.

  12. Foster strong working relationships with peers and leadership; act as a collaborative and effective team member.

  13. Accept and apply constructive feedback in support of continuous professional development.

  14. Perform other duties as assigned.


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