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Research Development Manager Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

GDH

Director of Research & Development

Rogers, AR · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Manage the R&D laboratory and team to support prototype development and inter-departmental projects. Qualifications * Bachelor's degree or higher in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field.

Ohio State University

... management and Office of Sponsored Programs. Creates text and populates documents select portions of research and program grant applications. o30% - Initiates at the department level some post-award ...

VALD

Business Development Manager

Little Rock, AR · On-site

Driven by a multidisciplinary team of researchers, clinicians, sports scientists, designers ... Business Development Managers are expected to spend time in the field meeting clients, performing ...

VALD

Business Development Manager

Little Rock, AR · On-site

Driven by a multidisciplinary team of researchers, clinicians, sports scientists, designers ... Business Development Managers are expected to spend time in the field meeting clients, performing ...

VALD

Business Development Manager

Little Rock, AR

Driven by a multidisciplinary team of researchers, clinicians, sports scientists, designers ... Business Development Managers are expected to spend time in the field meeting clients, performing ...

The ALS Association

Manager, Development

Bentonville, AR · On-site

$49K - $59K/yr

The ALS Association funds global research collaborations, assists people with ALS and their ... As a Development Manager you'll be responsible for generating revenue through the Walk to Defeat ...

The ALS Association

Manager, Development

Bentonville, AR · On-site

$49K - $59K/yr

The ALS Association funds global research collaborations, assists people with ALS and their ... As a Development Manager you'll be responsible for generating revenue through the Walk to Defeat ...

Ohio State University

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

... development and function of cortical interneurons; collaborates with Principal Investigator (PI) to develop, manage and implement research projects; plans, designs, and conducts complex & advanced ...

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All JobsResearch Development JobsResearch Development Manager JobsResearch Development Manager Jobs in Arkansas

Research Development Manager information

See Arkansas salary details

$40.1K

$84.2K

$136.4K

How much do research development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development manager in Arkansas is $84,174.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,100.00 and $96,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research development manager?

A Research Development Manager is a professional responsible for supporting and enhancing research activities within an organization, typically in academic, scientific, or corporate settings. They help identify funding opportunities, facilitate collaborations, and provide strategic guidance to researchers during grant proposal development. Their role often includes managing research projects, ensuring compliance with regulations, and helping translate research ideas into successful funding applications. Research Development Managers play a critical role in advancing the organization's research agenda and maximizing funding success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research development manager?

To thrive as a Research Development Manager, you need strong project management, grant writing, and analytical skills, usually supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with research administration software, funding databases, and compliance systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, collaboration, and strategic thinking abilities help you build partnerships and lead cross-functional teams effectively. These skills are crucial for securing research funding, ensuring compliance, and advancing organizational research goals.

What are some common challenges faced by research development managers, and how can they be addressed?

Research Development Managers often navigate challenges such as balancing multiple complex projects, securing funding, and coordinating across diverse teams. To address these, strong organizational skills and proactive communication are essential. Building robust relationships with researchers, administrators, and external partners helps streamline collaboration, while staying updated on funding opportunities can increase success rates for grant proposals. Regularly attending professional development workshops also helps managers stay current with best practices in research administration.

What is the difference between Research Development Manager vs Research Scientist?

AspectResearch Development ManagerResearch Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires a master's or Ph.D. in a relevant field, along with project management experienceUsually holds a master's or Ph.D. in a specific scientific discipline
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, and coordinates research efforts within organizationsConducts experiments, analyzes data, and develops new scientific knowledge
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in R&D departments across industries like pharmaceuticals, tech, and manufacturingFound in laboratories, research institutes, and academic settings

The Research Development Manager focuses on overseeing research projects, managing teams, and aligning research goals with organizational strategies. In contrast, the Research Scientist primarily conducts experiments and generates scientific data. Both roles require advanced degrees, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

Is a research development manager a good job?

A research development manager oversees research projects and coordinates efforts to innovate and improve products or services. The role typically requires strong project management, communication skills, and knowledge of research methodologies, with employment prospects often stable in industries like technology, healthcare, and academia.

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

The most popular types of Research Development jobs in Arkansas are:

What cities in Arkansas are hiring for Research Development Manager jobs?

Cities in Arkansas with the most Research Development Manager job openings:

Research Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Development Manager job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,174 per year, or $40.5 per hour.

Director of Research & Development

Walther Arms, Inc.

Fort Smith, AR • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced and driven Director of R&D to lead the research and development efforts of our firearms product portfolio. This leadership role will be responsible for building and guiding a high-performing R&D team based in Fort Smith, AR, with full accountability for the design, testing, and launch of innovative firearm systems.  The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in product design and development, project management, and proven leadership abilities, with a demonstrated history of taking products from concept through to production. This position is critical to driving our strategic growth through technological innovation and operational excellence. Key Responsibilities:Lead and develop the Fort Smith-based R&D team, including recruiting and developing top engineering talent and fostering a collaborative, innovative culture.Oversee the design, development, and testing of new firearms and related technologies, ensuring products meet safety, performance, and regulatory requirements.Provide technical leadership and vision to guide the development of next-generation firearms platforms.Manage multiple concurrent R&D projects using proven project management methodologies to meet schedule, cost, and performance targets.Collaborate with Product Management, Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to ensure smooth product launches.Establish and maintain test protocols and performance validation standards for new designs.Maintain awareness of industry trends, competitive products, and emerging technologies.Drive a continuous improvement mindset within the R&D team, focusing on innovation, efficiency, and product excellence.Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and international regulations related to firearms development and testing.Lead the development and maintenance of drawing control processes. Qualifications:Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Advanced technical degree or MBA is a plus.10+ years of progressive experience in product design and development.Proven track record of successfully leading design and R&D teams, with strong people management and leadership skills.Ability to develop a deep understanding of firearms systems, ballistics, materials, manufacturing processes, and regulatory standards (e.g., ATF, ITAR).Strong experience in project management tools and techniques; PMP certification and SolidWorks PDM experience is a plus.Demonstrated ability to bring new products to market from concept through full-scale production.Exceptional communication, organizational, and cross-functional collaboration skills.Experience in 3-D CAD design, focusing on SolidWorks, and other engineering analysis software.Experience in ANSI-Y-14.5 drawing terms and tolerances.Experience in DFM in a Lean environment. Additional Qualifications:A solid leadership style based on the development and support of those you lead.A passion for metric driven results.A team focused approach to design and development which leverages feedback and input across the organization.Excellent interpersonal skills providing clear communication at all levels.Exceptional product life cycle management skills.Proven success of project management through documentation and KPIs.An ability to prioritize and pivot based on internal and external customer demands.Strong ethics, integrity and leadership qualities that inspire trust and confidence from all levels.An established history of mentoring, motivating and developing individuals.A Cultural fit built around engagement, empowerment and servant leadership. 
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