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Research Development Manager Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

R&D Shop Manager Job Code 28013 FLSA Status Exempt Job Family Engine ENG Job Level L4 HSE Status Safety-Sensitive About Mesa Power Solutions Mesa Power Solutions is a fast-growing U.S. manufacturer ...

Engages in business development/marketing activities which include identifying and visiting potential and existing customers, attending local conventions, market research, managing the customer ...

As a Manager, Corporate Development, you will play a key role in shaping the strategic growth of ... research skills - Proven executive presence, communication, and interpersonal skills Travel ...

... development, knowledge transfer and networking opportunities that encourage dialogue and help ... Research to understand the issues driving the energy industry, and communicate them to senior ...

... development, knowledge transfer and networking opportunities that encourage dialogue and help ... Research to understand the issues driving the energy industry, and communicate them to senior ...

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Research Development Manager information

See Colorado salary details

$51K

$107K

$173.5K

How much do research development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development manager in Colorado is $107,038.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $122,500.00 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 objectives, budgets, and deadlines, often utilizing project management tools and technical expertise.

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 industry, experience, and location. They often require strong leadership skills, technical expertise, and a background in science or engineering.

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 it hard to get into R&D?

Research Development Managers typically need a strong background in their field, often requiring a relevant degree and experience in research or project management. Entry can be competitive, especially for senior roles, but developing skills in data analysis, innovation, and collaboration can improve chances of entering R&D positions.

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.

What is R and D department salary?

The salary for a Research Development Manager typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior roles or those in high-demand sectors may offer higher compensation, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Development jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Research Development jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Research Development Manager jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Research Development Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Development Manager job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,038 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

R&D Shop Manager     

Job Code
28013

FLSA Status
Exempt

Job Family
Engine ENG

Job Level
L4

HSE Status
Safety-Sensitive


About Mesa Power Solutions
Mesa Power Solutions is a fast-growing U.S. manufacturer delivering reliable, responsible power systems to industrial markets nationwide. We engineer and build advanced, sound-attenuated, temperature-controlled generator sets designed to perform in the toughest environments. Backed by industry-leading service and real-time telemetry technology, we give our customers the confidence and visibility they need to keep critical operations running.
At Mesa, people come first. We are committed to building a workplace where employees feel safe, respected, and valued and where performance, accountability, and professional growth are recognized and rewarded. Our A.D.A.P.T. values drive everything we do. We are:
Action-Oriented. Disciplined. Accountable. Passionate. Trustworthy.

What We Offer

  • Competitive base pay 
  • 401(k) plan
  • Generous paid time off — including vacation, holidays, parental leave, and bereavement
  • 100% employer-paid Health, Dental, and Vision insurance for employees and their dependents
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Life Insurance
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability coverage
  • Critical Illness and Accident insurance
  • Annual Evaluations with the opportunity for a pay increase based on performance

We invest in our people because they are the foundation of our success.


Employment Requirements
Safety is a core value at Mesa. Positions identified as safety-sensitive require initial drug screening as a condition of employment, and employees in those roles may be subject to random testing in accordance with company policy.


If you’re ready to do meaningful work, grow professionally, and be part of a team that’s powering critical industries nationwide, this is your opportunity.
Join Mesa Power Solutions and help us build the future of reliable power.

Job Summary
The R&D Shop Manager will oversee multiple teams of engineering technicians, including three team leads, to ensure efficient planning, coordination and implementation of manpower and the resources available; including in-house fabrication, testing requirements and maintaining strict timelines. This role demands strong technical expertise in Mesa O&G units, stationary power and distribution gear, exceptional leadership capabilities to guide and mentor team leads and their respective teams, and the ability to drive continuous improvement initiatives. The R&D Shop Manager will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams and departments, including engine design, product design, engine calibration, assembly and process/quality assurance, to deliver innovative solutions that meet organizational goals and customer expectations while maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and productivity.

Essential Duties

  • Lead and mentor a team of engineering technician team leads and their respective teams, providing guidance and support to ensure project success and professional growth.    
  • Foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing across teams to drive innovation and efficiency.    
  • Collaborate with management, project managers, logistics and other cross functional departments to help achieve the commercialization of responsible, reliable products for the company.    
  • Collaborate with Engineering Management to develop and execute long-term strageties aligned with business objectives.    
  • Identify opportunities for process improvement and implement solutions to enhance productivity and product reliability.    
  • Manage resources and priorities to meet project milestones and deadlines, proactively identifying and addressing any issues or risks.    
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex engineering challenges related to generator design and assembly.    
  • Present project updates, technical insights, and recommendations to the Director of Development and other stakeholders.    
  • Serve as a key liaison between engineering teams, technicians, senior management and other departments.    
  • Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the product development team.    
  • All other duties assigned.

Education
Required

  • 4 Year / Bachelors Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering, or related technical field from an accredited university and/or 5+ years of experience in lieu of degree.

Experience
Required

  • 5 years of management or leadership experience.
  • 5 years of experience related to fabrication, welding, or power generation product development.


Preferred

  • 5 years of experience in Research & Development or test environments with engine and electrical background
  • 3 years of SolidWorks or comparable CAD experience.
  • Honorably discharged service veterans are preferred.

Certifications, Licenses & Registrations
Required

  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and a driving record satisfactory to the company and its insurers.  

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

  • Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to mentor and develop high-performing engineering technician teams.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and teams simultaneously while ensuring alignment with strategic business objectives.
  • Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities to resolve complex engineering challenges and drive innovation.
  • Skilled in fostering cross-functional collaboration across engineering, logistics, and senior management to support efficient product development and commercialization.
  • Ability to identify process improvements and implement solutions that enhance productivity, reliability, and overall team performance.
  • Proficient in project planning, resource allocation, milestone tracking, and proactive risk management.
  • Strong communication skills for effectively presenting technical updates and recommendations to executive leadership.
  • Ability to create and maintain a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and accountability across engineering functions.
  • Deep understanding of product development life cycles and generator assembly processes.
  • Must be able to fluently speak, write, and read in English.

Culture Expectations

  • Action-oriented: Self-motivated, problem solver, takes initiative when issues arise, acting quickly and responding accordingly.
  • Disciplined: Focused, consistently following through with dedication to achieve high standards even when no one is watching. 
  • Accountable: Takes ownership and accountability for your actions, good and bad. 
  • Passionate: Passionate about what they do and who they work for, by bringing enthusiasm and commitment to every task and team.
  • Trustworthy: Reliable and honest, building confidence through integrity and consistent performance.

Physical Demands

Constant

  • Seeing (Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus)
  • Hearing
  • Use hands to type, touch, handle, or feel
  • Sitting

Frequent

  • Standing
  • Walking or moving throughout facility
  • Talking


Occasional

  • Bending or stooping
  • Squatting or crouching
  • Reaching
  • Kneeling
  • Pushing
  • Pulling
  • Occasionally required to walk and climb or balance

Working Conditions

Constant

  • Minimal safety hazards; general office working conditions.

Frequent

  • General maintenance shop working conditions.

Occasional

  • May be exposed to hazardous chemicals and gases.

Equipment & Software

  • SolidWorks viewing license
  • Microsoft applications
  • HDI Parts Portal
  • Computer
  • Phone

Additional Job Requirements

  • Willing to consent to and pass a background check and drug screening.
  • Willing to travel occasionally.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours including occasional evenings and weekends as required.

Supervisory Responsibilities

  • 3 or more Direct Reports


Mesa Power Solutions is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, citizenship status, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability or any other legally protected status. EOE/M/F/D/V