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Research Development Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

O Positiv

Research & Development Manager

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

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 ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved products across retail, club, and foodservice channels. This role will drive ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved products across retail, club, and foodservice channels. This role will drive ...

Kinder's

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved products across retail, club, and foodservice channels. This role will drive ...

Envea

R&D Manager

Orange, CA · On-site

Research & Development Manager Department: Market Engagement & Product Strategy (MEPS) Reports to: Director of R&D Lead Innovation. Drive Product Development. Inspire Technical Excellence. California ...

Envea

R&D Manager

Orange, CA · On-site

Research & Development Manager Department: Market Engagement & Product Strategy (MEPS) Reports to: Director of R&D Lead Innovation. Drive Product Development. Inspire Technical Excellence. California ...

Lab37

Research & Development Chef

Los Angeles, CA

$75K - $110K/yr

This isn't just an R&D role -- you're helping define the culinary roadmap for a business with ... Partner with Brand Manager, Designer, Ops, and Tech to ensure new launches are executed flawlessly ...

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Research Development Manager information

See California salary details

$47.9K

$100.5K

$162.8K

How much do research development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development manager in California is $100,461.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a research and development manager do?

A research and development manager oversees the development of new products, processes, or technologies within an organization. They coordinate research activities, manage teams of scientists or engineers, and ensure projects meet technical and business goals, often using project management tools and industry standards.

How much do R&D managers make in the US?

Research and Development (R&D) managers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $130,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $90,000 to over $180,000 depending on experience, industry, and location. They often hold advanced degrees and require strong leadership and project management skills to oversee innovation and product development teams.

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.

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, and why are they important?

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.

Is R&D stressful as a career?

Research and Development Managers often face stress due to project deadlines, innovation demands, and managing cross-functional teams. The role requires problem-solving skills, adaptability, and often involves long hours, especially during critical phases of product development or research projects.

What is the role of a research and development manager?

A research and development manager oversees the development of new products, processes, or technologies within an organization. They coordinate research activities, manage teams of scientists or engineers, and ensure projects align with company goals, often utilizing project management tools and technical expertise.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Development jobs in California? The most popular types of Research Development jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Research Development Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Research Development Manager job openings:
Research Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Development Manager job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,461 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Research & Development Manager

O Positiv

Santa Monica, CA

$135K - $160K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

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 VP of Research & 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 - $160,000 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

Apply