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Research Development Manager Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

The R&D Intern is responsible for supporting the R&D Project Leader / Manager in processes, trials, and analysis on packaging materials and finished products. Job Responsibilities & Tasks: * Assist ...

From researchers and architects to designers and operators, Core is made up of risk takers and ... Senior Manager, New Development Direct Reports: New Development Leasing Manager, Leasing ...

The R&D Intern is responsible for supporting the R&D Project Leader / Manager in processes, trials, and analysis on packaging materials and finished products. Job Responsibilities & Tasks: Assist in ...

Senior R&D Scientist

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

This role manages complex local R&D projects with limited direction, partners cross-functionally with internal teams and external suppliers, and applies advanced food science expertise to deliver ...

Showing results 41-60

Research Development Manager information

See Michigan salary details

$42.3K

$88.7K

$143.8K

How much do research development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development manager in Michigan is $88,723.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $101,500.00 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Research Development Manager job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,723 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

R&D Packaging Intern

Grawn, MI • On-site

BEL
Construction • 1 - 10 employees

$33/hr

Internship

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

8/3/26
Country: United States
Job Location: Traverse City
Job Family: Research / Development / Innovation
Type of contract: Internship
Working mode: On-site work
Job Id: 54054
R&D Packaging Intern
At Bel, we are not just a company-we are a company on a Mission, built on 160 years of bold innovation, family values, and a commitment to social purpose. With beloved brands like Babybel®, GoGo squeeZ®, The Laughing Cow®, and Boursin®, our snacking solutions bring more than joy; they want to serve as a force for good. Our U.S. Mission? To help close the critical 80% nutrition gap by making it easier for Americans to eat more fruits, veggies, and dairy as part of their daily lives.
The company has headquarters in Chicago and New York City and operates 4 manufacturing plants in Little Chute, WI; Brookings, SD; Traverse City, MI; and Nampa, ID. #IWorkForAllForGood
Job Summary:
The R&D Intern is responsible for supporting the R&D Project Leader / Manager in processes, trials, and analysis on packaging materials and finished products.
Job Responsibilities & Tasks:
  • Assist in validating packaging materials and specifications
  • Provide feedback on development and optimization of standard operating procedures
  • Perform routine analytical testing
  • Active participant in the R&D team and group projects
  • Prepare project results for the cross-functional project team
  • Assist project teams in collecting and analyzing data for various on-going studies
  • Support R&D Team Leads in conducting industrial product trials and first production launches.
  • Assist/Lead laboratory testing on packaging materials
  • Assist formulation team on recipe development/analysis
  • All other duties as assigned

Position Requirements:
EDUCATION
  • HS Diploma or GED
  • Pursuing bachelor's degree in Packaging or related degree

SKILLS
  • PC skills: windows, excel, word
  • Basic working knowledge
  • Able to deliver on time, with guidance
  • Basic troubleshooting skills
  • Excels in the management of personal tasks and objectives.
  • Actively contributes ideas for continuous improvement
  • Strives to execute agreed objectives
  • Able to follow instructions
  • Capable of effectively communicating (verbal & written) information to R&D Technicians/Scientists

PHYSICAL & TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
  • Must be able work in normal office conditions and in the manufacturing plant.
  • Must be able to wear PPE
  • Occasional travel to suppliers may occur
  • Ability to lift 50lbs

Pay rate: $33/hr + one-time $1,500 housing stipend
Time Frame: January-June 2027 or June 2027 - December 2027