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Research And Development Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 Intern for Summer 2027 to support product development, testing, and innovation initiatives focused ...

Grande

Research & Development Intern

Fond Du Lac, WI · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

The Custom Ingredients Group team is seeking a Research & Development Intern for Summer 2027 to support product development, testing, and innovation initiatives focused on whey-based ingredients and ...

Grande

Research & Development Intern

Fond Du Lac, WI · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

The Custom Ingredients Group team is seeking a Research & Development Intern for Summer 2027 to support product development, testing, and innovation initiatives focused on whey-based ingredients and ...

Socket.dev

R&D Manager

Madison, WI · On-site

$125 - $140/hr

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

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 ...

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Research And Development information

See Wisconsin salary details

$49K

$102.7K

$166.5K

How much do research and development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development 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 is research and development (R&D)?

Research and Development (R&D) refers to the activities companies undertake to innovate and introduce new products or services. It involves researching market needs, creating new ideas, and developing prototypes or processes to bring those ideas to life. R&D is crucial for business growth, helping organizations stay competitive by improving existing products or inventing new ones. Professionals in this field often work in laboratories, engineering departments, or product design teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in research and development (R&D)?

A successful R&D professional typically possesses a strong background in scientific or technical disciplines, supported by relevant degrees such as a BS, MS, or PhD in fields like engineering, chemistry, or biology. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and project management tools, along with certifications like Six Sigma or PMP, is often required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills that help drive innovation and teamwork. These competencies are vital for developing new products, improving processes, and maintaining a competitive edge in fast-evolving markets.

What are typical challenges faced by professionals in research and development (R&D)?

Professionals in R&D roles often encounter challenges such as balancing innovative thinking with practical constraints like budget, timelines, and regulatory requirements. They must also navigate uncertainties related to experimental results and manage cross-functional collaboration with teams such as marketing, production, and quality assurance. Staying updated with the latest technological advancements and maintaining clear documentation throughout the development process are also crucial to success. Adaptability and strong problem-solving skills are essential to overcome these common hurdles and drive projects forward.

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

AspectResearch And DevelopmentProduct Development
FocusCreating new knowledge, innovations, and prototypesDesigning, building, and launching new or improved products
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research centers, R&D departmentsDesign studios, manufacturing facilities, project teams
Required CredentialsScience or engineering degrees, research experienceEngineering, design, or product management background
Industry UsageTech, pharmaceuticals, manufacturingConsumer goods, electronics, automotive

Research And Development focuses on generating new knowledge and innovations, often in labs or research centers. Product Development takes those innovations and transforms them into market-ready products through design, testing, and manufacturing processes. While R&D is about discovery, product development is about application and commercialization.

What degree do you need to work in research and development?

Research and development roles typically require at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, engineering, or technology. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or Ph.D., along with strong analytical skills and experience with laboratory tools or research methodologies.

What skills are needed for research and development jobs?

Research and development jobs require strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in scientific or technical methods. Knowledge of relevant tools, programming languages, or laboratory equipment, along with good communication and teamwork skills, are also important for success in R&D roles.

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 jobs in Wisconsin?

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

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

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

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

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Research And Development job openings:

Research And Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research And Development job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,746 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Research & Development Manager

WI • On-site

Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co Inc
See more jobs at Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co Incexternal

$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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