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Research Development Manager Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

R&D Manager

Willmar, MN · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Research & Development Manager Prinsco is looking for a Research & Development Manager to lead product innovation, engineering projects, and new product development initiatives. This role is ...

R&D Manager

Willmar, MN · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Research & Development Manager Prinsco is looking for a Research & Development Manager to lead product innovation, engineering projects, and new product development initiatives. This role is ...

R&D Manager

Willmar, MN · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

First Research & Development Manager Prinsco is looking for a Research & Development Manager to lead product innovation, engineering projects, and new product development initiatives. This role is ...

Conduct product testing, verification, validation, and risk management activities in accordance ... R&D within a regulated industry (medical device preferred) * Experience working under design ...

$31.73/hr

... project management, and/or collaboration tools. The internship allows candidates to demonstrate ... As an R&D Food Scientist Intern, you will experience a robust 10-week internship with hopes that ...

A medical device client in New Hope, Minnesota is seeking a Research & Development (R&D) Project Manager to lead complex, customer-facing development projects. This individual will serve as the ...

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Research Development Manager information

See Minnesota salary details

$47.5K

$99.7K

$161.6K

How much do research development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development manager in Minnesota is $99,698.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $114,100.00 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 Minnesota?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Research Development Manager job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,698 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

R&D Manager

PRINSCO

Willmar, MN • On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Prinsco rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Research & Development Manager

Prinsco is looking for a Research & Development Manager to lead product innovation, engineering projects, and new product development initiatives. This role is responsible for advancing new technologies and products and ensuring projects are successfully executed from concept to commercialization. The position pays between $120,000 to $150,000 depending on experience.

What You'll Do
  • Provide Coaching and Guidance to R&D and Project Engineering team members. 
  • Drive new product development, product improvements, and innovation initiatives. 
  • Manage project portfolios, priorities, timelines, and resources. 
  • Oversee testing, validation, and commercialization of new products. 
  • Partner with Sales, Manufacturing, Operations, Quality, and Engineering teams to deliver business-driven solutions. 
  • Implement structured product development and project management processes.
  
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Civil, Materials, or related Engineering field.
  • 10+ years of engineering, product development, or technical experience. 
  • 3+ years of leadership, project management, or program management experience. 
  • Experience in plastics, pipe manufacturing, or related industries preferred. 
  • Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • AutoCAD proficiency required; 3D modeling experience preferred.
  • Ability to travel up to 25%.
Why Prinsco?

At Prinsco, our mission is simple: To care. To contribute. To solve. Join a team committed to innovation, continuous improvement, and developing products that make a lasting impact. [

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance • 401(k) with company match • HSA contribution • Company-paid life and disability insurance • Paid time off and holidays • Employee assistance program • Career growth opportunities.

Apply today to help shape the future of product innovation at Prinsco.


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