1

Research And Development Scientist Jobs in Virginia

Showing results 41-60

Research And Development Scientist information

See Virginia salary details

$50.1K

$129K

$172.5K

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development scientist in Virginia is $129,001.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,600.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a research and development scientist do?

A Research and Development (R&D) Scientist is responsible for designing, conducting, and analyzing experiments to create new products or improve existing ones. They work in various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, food science, and engineering, to drive innovation and solve technical challenges. Their work often involves collaborating with other scientists, staying up-to-date with scientific advancements, and documenting their findings for regulatory and commercial purposes.

What are some common challenges research and development scientists face when bringing a new product from concept to market?

Research and Development Scientists often encounter challenges such as balancing innovative ideas with practical feasibility, managing strict project timelines, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. They must also collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—including engineering, marketing, and quality assurance—to align technical advancements with market needs. Navigating these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication to ensure successful product development and launch.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research and development scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research and Development Scientist, you need a strong background in scientific research, data analysis, and experimental design, typically supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software, and compliance with regulatory standards is essential. Creative problem-solving, critical thinking, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for generating ideas and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for driving innovation, ensuring experimental accuracy, and successfully developing new products or technologies.

What is the difference between Research And Development Scientist vs Quality Control Analyst?

AspectResearch And Development ScientistQuality Control Analyst
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Science, relevant certificationsBachelor's in Science, certifications may vary
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, product development teamsManufacturing facilities, quality assurance labs
Employer & IndustryPharmaceutical, biotech, consumer goods companiesManufacturers, production plants, quality assurance units
Primary FocusDeveloping new products, improving formulationsEnsuring products meet quality standards, testing

Research And Development Scientists focus on creating and improving products through experimentation and innovation, while Quality Control Analysts ensure products meet safety and quality standards through testing. Both roles are essential in product development and manufacturing industries, often working closely but with distinct responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Scientist jobs in Virginia?

For Research And Development Scientist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research And Development Scientist jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Research And Development Scientist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Research And Development Scientist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Research And Development Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Research And Development Scientist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,001 per year, or $62 per hour.

Senior Scientist - New Product Development

Altria Group, Inc.

Richmond, VA • On-site

$91K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Altria Group rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Title: Senior Scientist - New Product Development
Req Id: 3305
Work Model: On-Site
Company: Altria Client Services
State/Province: Virginia
Job Description:
Together We Innovate. Together We Change.
Advance innovative oral nicotine products for next-generation reduced-harm solutions at a Fortune 500 company. Do you have a degree in chemical engineering, chemistry, polymer science, food science, pharmaceutical science, or a related discipline? Do you also bring experience in product development, formulation, applied research, or food/pharmaceutical processing? If so, we want to speak with you!
We are currently looking for a Senior Scientist - New Product Development - to join Altria's Growth Org and Front-End Innovation Technical team in Richmond, Virginia. In this role, you will develop and optimize lab-scale processes, build and evaluate prototypes, and generate technical learnings that help advance early-stage oral nicotine concepts toward feasibility, regulatory readiness, and commercialization.
What you will be doing:
  • Develop and optimize lab-scale processing approaches, including material handling and fabrication techniques, to translate early concepts into feasible product formats.
  • Plan and execute rapid prototyping studies to build, test, and iterate oral nicotine concepts against targeted product performance attributes.
  • Apply ingredient selection, controlled-release approaches, and materials processing techniques to develop product prototypes with targeted performance attributes.
  • Perform analytical testing and material characterization to guide process adjustments and inform design iterations.
  • Establish and sustain lab-scale equipment, workflows, and capabilities that support rapid prototyping and early feasibility assessments.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional partners and project teams to translate prototype learnings into technical recommendations and business decisions.
  • Document process innovations, experimental learnings, and technical findings to support knowledge capture and intellectual property protection.

We want you to have:
  • Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred in chemical engineering, chemistry, polymer science, food science, pharmaceutical science, or related discipline.
  • Product development, formulation, or applied research experience: BS 4+ years, MS 2+ years, or PhD 0+ years.
  • Hands-on experience with analytical testing, material characterization, and data interpretation for product or process development.
  • Knowledge of food or pharmaceutical processing, formulation development, ingredient functionality, and experimental data analysis.
  • Laboratory experience handling hazardous chemicals, including nicotine, with appropriate safety practices and controls highly preferred.
  • Strong execution, collaboration, communication, and prioritization skills in a fast-moving technical project environment.

The starting salary is based on but not limited to experience, knowledge, and qualifications in determining compensation decisions. The Salary Range for this position is: $91,500.00 - $132,750.00.
Why You'll Love Building Your Career at Altria
At Altria, we believe a great career starts with feeling supported - both at work and in life. Here's what you'll find here:
  • Work where connection and flexibility meet - enjoy the benefits of in-person collaboration three days a week (Tuesday - Thursday), while maintaining the flexibility to work remotely on Mondays and Fridays. Our hybrid approach empowers you to stay connected, collaborate with colleagues, and manage your schedule in a way that works best for you.
  • Own your time - start with 15 days of paid time off, 13 paid holidays, 2 floating holiday days, and a 37.5-hour workweek so you can recharge and live fully.
  • A place where you belong - where your ideas are welcomed, your growth is encouraged, and your impact is real.
  • Get recognized for your work - annual merit increases and performance bonus.
  • A future you can count on - 401(k) matching from day one; plus Deferred Profit Sharing, an annual company contribution in an amount equal to 13%-17% of your base salary.
  • Help with your goals - get help with student loan repayment assistance, attend a conference, or gain a new certification with professional development stipends.
  • Support for what matters most - comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family.
  • Celebrating your milestones - paid parental and bonding leave for life's biggest moments.
  • Wellness that goes beyond work - programs that care for your whole well-being at whatever stage you are in your life.
  • A culture that gives back - paid volunteer days and a shared commitment to making a difference.

At Altria, we offer more than benefits - we offer a career that fits your life, rewards your ambition, and celebrates your impact.
This position is not eligible for sponsorship.
Altria is a Fortune 500 company that has a leading portfolio of products for U.S. adult tobacco and nicotine consumers 21+. For decades we've been leaders in the tobacco industry, but the industry is evolving - and so are we. Our Vision is Moving Beyond Smoking™.
At Altria, we celebrate the power of diverse teams working together to shape our future. Each Altria company is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing individuals with criminal records, including formerly incarcerated individuals and individuals with conviction records, a fair chance at employment. Join us as we work together to shape a better future for adult tobacco consumers, our employees, and our shareholders.
Altria is the parent company of Philip Morris USA, John Middleton, U.S. Smokeless Tobacco, Helix Innovations, and NJOY. Altria complements its tobacco portfolio with equity investments in Anheuser-Busch InBev and Cronos Group.
Learn more about Altria at www.altria.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

What Altria Group employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom