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Research Director Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

* Directing and driving the business group toward achieving technical objectives and financial goals ... Scientific Research Corporation is an advanced information technology and engineering company that ...

Directing and driving the business group toward achieving technical objectives and financial goals ... About Us Scientific Research Corporation is an advanced information technology and engineering ...

Research Scientist

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$56K - $108K/yr

We are pleased to announce the opening for a Research Scientist who will join our Biotechnology ... Preference for self-directed work [You'll work with our top technical talent, but we're looking for ...

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Research Director information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$53.9K

$179.4K

$216.1K

How much do research director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for research director in Decatur, AL is $179,353.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,000.00 and $214,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research director?

A research director manages a company’s research and development department. As a research director, you supervise team members, overseeing data collection and analysis, product design, and manufacturing. Other responsibilities include hiring and training new staff, conducting performance evaluations, and gathering information and preparing detailed reports about the progress and outcomes of research projects. The qualifications for a career as a research director are a doctorate in science and at least five years of management experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Director, you need advanced expertise in research methodology, data analysis, and project management, typically supported by a PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant field. Familiarity with statistical software, data visualization tools, and research management systems is often required. Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for guiding research teams, ensuring the quality of deliverables, and aligning projects with organizational goals.

How does a research director typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success?

As a Research Director, you will frequently work with cross-functional teams, including product managers, data analysts, marketing professionals, and senior leadership. Collaboration often involves establishing research priorities, aligning on project goals, and communicating key findings to various stakeholders. Effective Research Directors facilitate regular meetings, provide clear direction to research staff, and ensure that research insights are integrated into broader organizational strategies. This collaborative approach is essential for delivering impactful research outcomes that support business objectives.

What is the difference between Research Director vs Research Manager?

AspectResearch DirectorResearch Manager
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in relevant field; often advanced degreesBachelor's or Master's in relevant field; some roles prefer advanced degrees
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership in research departments, overseeing multiple projectsManaging research teams and projects, focusing on execution
Industry UsageUsed in corporate, academic, and government research settingsCommon in corporate and academic research teams

The Research Director typically holds a higher strategic leadership role, overseeing research initiatives and setting long-term goals. The Research Manager focuses more on managing day-to-day research activities and team coordination. Both roles require strong research credentials, but the Research Director's scope is broader and more strategic.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Decatur, AL?

The most popular types of Research jobs in Decatur, AL are:

What job categories do people searching Research Director jobs in Decatur, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Director jobs in Decatur, AL are:

What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Research Director jobs?

Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Research Director job openings:

Agricultural Research Station Manager

Alabama A&M University

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Winfred Thomas Agricultural Research Station Job Post

Summary: Winfred Thomas Agricultural Research Station (WTARS) is primarily an experimental research farm mandated to conduct plant, animal, soil, forestry, bioenergy, and environmental research. Periodically the Station also provides hands-on educational opportunities for students of all ages and the public, through our ongoing outreach events. The Research faculty and graduate students from Alabama A&M University (AAMU) and collaborating institutions use WTARS for a broad array of field research. Outreach activities include workshops by Alabama Cooperative Extension Service (ACES); local, regional, and national conferences; ROTC; K-12 school field trips (Hazel Green Middle School located southwest of WTARS); field trips for farmers; 4H and FFA events; fundraisers for local nonprofits; and much more. The station is used by agricultural industry and also by public or private collaborators. The facility is overseen by the Dean/1890 Research Director the College of Agricultural, Life and Natural Sciences (CALNS), under the mandate of the 1890 land-grants mission and operated by a Station Manager. Through the USDA, the Evans-Allen program supports agricultural research, along with extension activities with an emphasis on reaching socially and economically disadvantaged people.

Examples Of Duties

Essential Duties And Responsibilities:

  • Manage daily operations of the research station
  • Hire, train, and supervise support staff
  • Supervise the collection, summarization, and transmission of research data and records to faculty members; and to collaborators
  • Provide/Oversee maintenance of field site in accordance with best land and field research principles
  • Maintain an attractive experiment station appearance
  • Cooperate/Work with AAMU Physical Facilities in maintaining buildings and field laboratories
  • Conduct Future planning of research facilities
Typical Qualifications

Minimum Position Requirements (including certifications, licenses, etc.):

    • Experience in field research methods, ability to implement experimental design, statistical analysis, and effective communication of research results to clientele
    • Evidence of working with farm workers, as well as diverse faculty members, office managers, and administrative staff
Supplemental Information

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Awareness of ecosystems and environmental sciences to manage forest and agroforest areas, wetlands, water bodies, and riparian zones
  • Familiarity with farm equipment and smaller research plot equipment
  • Candidate should be detail-oriented and possess strong organization and communication skills
  • Strong oral and numerical communication skills
  • Ability to lift in excess of 50 lbs.
  • Must be willing to travel locally and regionally occasionally