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Research And Development Manager Jobs in California

O Positiv

Research & Development Manager

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$135K - $160K/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 · 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 ...

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 ...

Envea

R&D Manager

Orange, CA · On-site

Research & Development Manager Department: Market Engagement & Product Strategy (MEPS) Reports to: Director of R&D Lead Innovation. Drive Product Development. Inspire Technical Excellence. California ...

Envea

R&D Manager

Orange, CA

Research & Development Manager Department: Market Engagement & Product Strategy (MEPS) Reports to: Director of R&D Lead Innovation. Drive Product Development. Inspire Technical Excellence. California ...

mybakemark

02701A - Manager, R&D

Fresno, CA · On-site

The Manager, Research & Development (R&D) is responsible for leading product innovation, formulation development, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role oversees the development of new ...

mybakemark

02701A - Manager, R&D

Fresno, CA · On-site

The Manager, Research & Development (R&D) is responsible for leading product innovation, formulation development, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role oversees the development of new ...

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All JobsResearch And Development JobsResearch And Development Manager JobsResearch And Development Manager Jobs in California

Research And Development Manager information

See California salary details

$47.9K

$100.5K

$162.8K

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development manager in California is $100,461.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Manager jobs in California?

For Research And Development Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research And Development Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Research And Development Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Research And Development Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Research And Development Manager job openings:

Research And Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research And Development Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,461 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Research & Development Manager

O Positiv

Santa Monica, CA

$135K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-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 VP of Research & 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
    • 4-8+ 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 - $160,000 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