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Research And Development Project Manager Jobs in California

Research & Development Manager

Santa Monica, CA ยท On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

Manage project coordination in tracking, expediting, and facilitating the progress of each product ... R&D, and/or regulatory affairs within the functional foods, supplements, or skincare industry

Our established Community Development group is seeking an experienced Project Manager to support development projects for various private and public clients. In this role, you will contribute to the ...

Our established Community Development group is seeking an experienced Project Manager to support development projects for various private and public clients. In this role, you will contribute to the ...

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and ... Project Management * Manage multiple projects concurrently, ensuring milestones, deliverables, and ...

Be Seen First

Manages, oversees and coordinates all facets of pre-construction, project development, bid/award, and project close-out phase of all assigned projects * Works with the design team to focus on the ...

New

Milpitas, California, United States of America We are searching for the best talent to join our Vision team as a Project Manager, R&D PMO located in Milpitas, CA. Fueled by innovation at the ...

R&D Tax Manager

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$118K - $155K/yr

Tax Manager - Research & Development Tax Credit The Tax Manager in the Research & Development Tax Credit group supervises R&D projects, researches tax issues, assists in conducting fieldwork, and ...

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and ... Project Management * Manage multiple projects concurrently, ensuring milestones, deliverables, and ...

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Research And Development Project Manager information

See California salary details

$72K

$109.3K

$164.8K

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

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development project manager in California is $109,260.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,300.00 and $121,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectResearch And Development Project Manager

The Research And Development Project Manager focuses on overseeing R&D projects, managing innovation, and coordinating scientific or technical teams. They typically require technical credentials, such as engineering or science degrees, and work in labs or R&D departments. The Product Development Manager, on the other hand, concentrates on bringing products from concept to market, often requiring product management experience and market knowledge. Both roles are common in tech, manufacturing, and biotech industries, but their primary focus and skill sets differ. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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

A Research and Development Project Manager works closely with cross-functional teams, including scientists, engineers, marketing, and manufacturing departments, to ensure project milestones are met efficiently. They facilitate regular meetings to align goals, communicate progress, and address any challenges that arise. By coordinating between different functional areas, the R&D Project Manager helps to integrate technical advancements with business objectives, ensuring smooth product development cycles and timely project delivery.

What does a Research and Development Project Manager do?

A Research and Development (R&D) Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of projects aimed at developing new products or improving existing ones. They coordinate teams of researchers, engineers, and other specialists, manage budgets and timelines, and ensure that project goals align with company objectives. Additionally, they facilitate communication between stakeholders, monitor progress, and address any challenges that arise during the development process.

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

To thrive as a Research and Development Project Manager, you need a strong background in project management, technical expertise in relevant scientific or engineering fields, and often a degree in science, engineering, or a related discipline. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project or Jira), knowledge of regulatory standards, and certifications such as PMP or PRINCE2 are commonly required. Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and cross-functional communication skills help drive innovation and align multidisciplinary teams. These capabilities are crucial for delivering projects on time, within budget, and in compliance with industry standards while fostering a culture of innovation.
What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Project Manager jobs in California? For Research And Development Project Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research And Development Project Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Research And Development Project Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Research And Development Project Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Research And Development Project Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Research And Development Project Manager job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,260 per year, or $52.5 per hour.

Research & Development Manager

O Positiv

Santa Monica, CA โ€ข On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Who We Are
O Positiv Health is a Los Angeles-based women's health company on a mission to support women through every stage of life-from their first period to well beyond their last. Since launching in 2018, O Positiv has reshaped the women's health space, tackling long-overlooked issues with innovative, science-backed products and boldly breaking taboos along the way. Our growing portfolio spans PMS & hormone balance, vaginal & urinary health, digestion, menopause, and conception support-offering vitamins, supplements, and personal care products that women trust.
Today, O Positiv products are sold nationwide at Target, Walmart, CVS, Meijer, Amazon, TikTok Shop, and OPositiv.com. We're proud to hold the #1 Vaginal Probiotic nationwide and multiple top-performing products across major wellness categories. We are scaling fast and shaping the future of women's health. Our team combines an entrepreneurial spirit with a passion for innovation and a commitment to impact. Join us, and you'll have the opportunity to grow alongside a company that's making a real difference.
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

Click here to view our Applicant Privacy Policy.
O Positiv is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status.
O Positiv believes in the power of building a diverse and culturally inclusive team. We seek candidates from all backgrounds to join our teams. We're driven to build a workplace based on inclusive behaviors and equitable systems, where all employees can bring their authentic selves, feel engaged, and share their perspectives as a valued member of O Positiv.