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Research And Development Manager Jobs in Wisconsin

Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co Inc

WI · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

The Manager of Research & Development (R&D) is responsible for leading the development, testing, and continuous improvement of residential window and door products. This role oversees design ...

GoMacro

R&D Manager

Madison, WI · On-site

As the Research & Development Manager, you will lead the R&D function and team, providing technical and people leadership across new product development, commercialization, product lifecycle ...

GoMacro LLC

R&D Manager

Madison, WI · On-site

As the Research & Development Manager, you will lead the R&D function and team, providing technical and people leadership across new product development, commercialization, product lifecycle ...

Grande Cheese

Research & Development Intern

Fond Du Lac, WI · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Research & Development Intern The Custom Ingredients Group team is seeking a Research & Development ... Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and adapt to changing priorities. * Strong work ethic ...

Grande

Research & Development Intern

Fond Du Lac, WI · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and adapt to changing priorities. * Strong work ethic ... Interest in Research & Development, New Product Development, Sensory Analysis, and/or Microbiology.

Grande

Research & Development Intern

Fond Du Lac, WI · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and adapt to changing priorities. * Strong work ethic ... Interest in Research & Development, New Product Development, Sensory Analysis, and/or Microbiology.

Pennsylvania Food Corporation

R&D Manager

Portage, WI · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

R&D Manager Pennsylvania Food Corporation Portage, Wisconsin, United States About this position The R&D Manager is responsible for leading research, product development, formulation ...

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Research And Development Manager information

See Wisconsin salary details

$49K

$102.7K

$166.5K

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

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development manager in Wisconsin is $102,746.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,200.00 and $117,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Is a research and development manager a good job?

A research and development manager oversees innovation and product development within a company, requiring strong leadership, technical expertise, and project management skills. It is generally considered a rewarding role with opportunities for advancement, but it can also involve high responsibility and long hours depending on the industry. Job satisfaction often depends on the company's culture and the manager's ability to lead teams effectively.

What does a research and development manager do?

A research and development manager oversees the development of new products, services, or processes by coordinating research activities, managing teams, and ensuring projects meet technical and business goals. 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. R&D managers typically work in labs or office environments and may need relevant technical certifications or advanced degrees.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cities in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,746 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Research & Development Manager

Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co Inc

WI • On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

The Manager of Research & Development (R&D) is responsible for leading the development, testing, and continuous improvement of residential window and door products. This role oversees design validation, material evaluation, performance testing, and cross-functional product development activities to support company growth, regulatory compliance, manufacturability, and customer satisfaction.


The R&D Manager collaborates closely with Manufacturing, Marketing, Quality, Supply Chain, and Sales teams to successfully launch new products and product enhancements into the residential fenestration market.


Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the research, design, and development of new residential window and door products and systems.

  • Manage product improvements, cost reduction initiatives, and value engineering projects.

  • Identify new technologies, materials, hardware, glazing systems, and design trends within the fenestration industry.

  • Support innovation initiatives focused on energy efficiency, sustainability, acoustics, durability, and ease of manufacturing.


Project Management

  • Manage multiple R&D projects from concept through commercialization.

  • Develop and maintain project schedules, milestones, budgets, and deliverables.

  • Lead design reviews, risk assessments, FMEA activities and communicate project status to leadership.

  • Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure successful product launches.

  • Ensure projects meet timeline, cost, and performance objectives.

  • Ensure product compliance with applicable standards and codes.

  • Inspire, mentor, and develop a team of Product Engineers and Product Designers.

  • Clearly communicate department goals, priorities, performance expectations, and strategic vision.

  • Foster a culture of creativity, accountability, and continuous improvement.

  • Support recruiting, training, and employee development initiatives, to ensure an environment of trust and unity.


Manufacturing & Operations Support

  • Collaborate with Manufacturing and Process Engineering to ensure products are manufacturable and cost effective.

  • Support troubleshooting of field and production-related product issues.

  • Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action activities.

  • Oversee the development of installation methods, work instructions, and technical documentation.

  • Work with suppliers to evaluate new materials, components, and technologies.

  • Support Sales and Marketing with technical product information and competitive analysis.

  • Participate in customer visits, industry trade shows, and technical presentations as needed.


Qualifications
Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related technical field required.


Experience

  • 7–10+ years of product development or engineering experience. Preference given to experience within the residential window and door, building products, or fenestration industry.

  • 3–5 years of leadership or management experience.

  • Experience with APQP and/or stage-gate product development processes.


Technical Skills

  • Experience with CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Inventor.

  • Understanding of thermal analysis, structural analysis, and product testing methods.

  • Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.

  • Familiarity with extrusion design, tooling, and profile optimization.

  • Experience with ERP/PLM systems.

  • End-to-end product ownership

  • Structured problem solving and root cause analysis

  • Detail-oriented documentation and change management

  • Customer- and market-focused design mindset

  • Ability to balance innovation, performance, cost, and manufacturability


Work Environment / Physical Requirements

  • Combination of office, lab, and manufacturing floor work

  • Minimal (< 10%) travel to suppliers, test labs, or initial product installations may be required

  • Ability to support hands-on prototype builds and production trials

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