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Research And Development Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

O Positiv

Research & Development Manager

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

Your Role The Research & Development Manager is responsible for supporting the execution of product development for both new product initiatives and portfolio maintenance efforts that accelerate O ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved products across retail, club, and foodservice channels. This role will drive ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved products across retail, club, and foodservice channels. This role will drive ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved products across retail, club, and foodservice channels. This role will drive ...

KNOWLTON TECHNOLOGIES LLC

R&D Manager

Watertown, NY · On-site

$115K - $135K/yr

Manage and direct R&D activities concerned with development, application, and maintenance of all product lines associated with Knowlton. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES : The Research and Development ...

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Research And Development Manager information

See salary details

$48.5K

$101.8K

$165K

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

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development manager in the United States is $101,794.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a research development manager do?

A research and development manager oversees the development of new products, processes, or technologies by coordinating research activities, managing teams, and ensuring projects meet objectives and deadlines. They analyze market trends, allocate resources, and collaborate with other departments to bring innovations from concept to implementation, often requiring strong leadership and technical skills.

What is the difference between Research And Development Manager vs Product Development Manager?

AspectResearch And Development ManagerProduct Development Manager
Primary FocusInnovating and developing new technologies or processesDesigning and launching new products or improving existing ones
Work EnvironmentLabs, R&D departments, technical teamsDesign studios, engineering teams, marketing
Required CredentialsScience or engineering degrees, technical expertiseEngineering, business, or marketing degrees, project management skills
Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech, pharmaceuticals, manufacturingConsumer goods, tech, automotive, electronics

Both roles involve product innovation but differ in focus: R&D Managers concentrate on creating new technologies and processes, while Product Development Managers focus on bringing products to market and improving existing offerings. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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

Research and Development (R&D) managers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $130,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $90,000 to over $180,000 depending on experience, industry, and location. They often require strong leadership, project management skills, and a background in science or engineering.

Is it hard to get into R&D?

Getting into a Research and Development (R&D) manager role typically requires a strong background in a relevant field, such as engineering, science, or technology, along with several years of experience in research, development, or project management. Candidates often need advanced degrees, technical skills, and a proven track record of innovation or problem-solving to qualify for these positions.

What does a Research and Development Manager do?

A Research and Development (R&D) Manager oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of research projects that lead to new products, services, or processes. They manage teams of scientists, engineers, or researchers, set project goals, allocate resources, and ensure that projects align with business objectives. R&D Managers also stay updated with industry trends, foster innovation, and collaborate with other departments to bring new ideas to market. Their work is essential for maintaining a company's competitive edge and driving growth through innovation.

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

To thrive as a Research and Development Manager, you need a background in science or engineering, proven project management skills, and experience leading innovation initiatives, often supported by an advanced degree. Familiarity with R&D management software, data analytics tools, and relevant certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma are commonly required. Strong leadership, creative problem-solving, and clear communication skills help you motivate teams and drive projects forward. These capabilities are essential for delivering innovative products, optimizing processes, and maintaining a competitive edge in the market.

How does a Research and Development Manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project lifecycle?

A Research and Development Manager works closely with teams across engineering, marketing, production, and quality assurance to ensure project goals align with business objectives. They often lead brainstorming sessions, coordinate timelines, and facilitate communication between departments to address technical challenges and integrate feedback. This collaboration ensures that new products or processes are innovative, feasible, and market-ready. Being proactive in cross-team communication is essential for keeping projects on track and ensuring successful outcomes.

What is R and D department salary?

The salary for a Research and Development (R&D) Manager typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior roles or those in high-tech sectors may earn higher compensation, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits.
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Research And Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research And Development Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,794 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Research & Development Manager

O Positiv

Santa Monica, CA

$135K - $165K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Your Role

The Research & Development Manager is responsible for supporting the execution of product development for both new product initiatives and portfolio maintenance efforts that accelerate O Positiv's growth. You will be part of the creation of OP's rapidly growing product line and new offerings in women's health, wellness and more.

The ideal candidate is an individual with a strong scientific research background, a high level of organization among competing priorities, and a natural curiosity with a willingness to learn. The Research & Development Manager will report to the Director of Product Development and will work cross functionally with internal and external stakeholders to support innovation and execution of O Positiv's product roadmap.

Responsibilities and Duties

  • Bring innovative and differentiated products from concept to market that support our core customers' health goals and align with O Positiv's commitments / standards
  • Conduct ingredient research / literature reviews; identify novel ingredients and formats to explore / evaluate for product feasibility
  • Stay up to date to new trends in ingredients (vitamins, minerals, herbs, etc.) relevant to OP's product roadmap and concept designs
  • Substantiate claims by composing comprehensive summaries of clinical research that support product claims
  • Manage project coordination in tracking, expediting, and facilitating the progress of each product's development through the product's launch date
  • Assist with the artwork development process to proof and ensure proper routing and compliance to regulatory requirements
  • Provide scientific support on marketing campaigns, landing pages, and other customer-facing literature
  • Provide feedback on samples submissions and ensure formulations meet OP's specifications, are efficacious and fall within budget requirements
  • Support the reformulation of existing products to ensure products continue to be differentiated and meet marketing and customer expectations

Qualifications and Skills

  • Experience:
    • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent work experience in Science (e.g. Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, etc.), Food Science, Pharmaceutical Science or related field
    • 3-6 years of experience working in product development, R&D, and/or regulatory affairs within the functional foods, supplements, or skincare industry
    • Exceptional expertise in technical research including ingredient pathology, project management, and vendor relationship management
  •  Interpersonal:
    • Strong leadership & communication skills: listen, mentor, and teach by example
    • Thrives in fast-paced environments
    • Strong project management and prioritization skills
    • Ability to manage multiple moving pieces and lead different groups of individuals
    • Adaptable to new technology and innovations
    • Thoughtful and self-reflective, willingness to learn and adapt
    • Team-player, hard-working, organized, and goal-oriented
    • Excitement for startups and building from the ground up

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Hours and Compensation

The anticipated base compensation range for this role will be $135,000 - $165,000 annually. Compensation will be commensurate with the candidate's experience and local market rates. 

  • Job Type: Full-time 
  • Pay based on prior experience
  • Position will be based out of Santa Monica, Los Angeles - in person (Mon-Thurs in office/Friday remote 

 Benefits & Perks

  • Flexible PTO, Sick Days, and Wellness Days
  • Monthly Social Hours
  • Medical, Vision, and Dental Coverage
  • 401K with matching
  • $50/month Fitness Reimbursement + Up to $1,800 in annual wellness benefits
  • An environment of collaboration, high performance, & respect amongst all employees and managers

Apply