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Research Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Director

Montpelier, VT · Remote

$50 - $60/hr

We are looking for a Research Director to join our team to help train the next generation of AI while enjoying the flexibility of remote work and the freedom to set your own schedule. This role is ...

$50 - $60/hr

We are looking for a Research Director to join our team to help train the next generation of AI while enjoying the flexibility of remote work and the freedom to set your own schedule. This role is ...

Research Director

Charleston, WV · Remote

$50 - $60/hr

We are looking for a Research Director to join our team to help train the next generation of AI while enjoying the flexibility of remote work and the freedom to set your own schedule. This role is ...

Research Director

Manhattan, NY · Remote

$50 - $60/hr

We are looking for a Research Director to join our team to help train the next generation of AI while enjoying the flexibility of remote work and the freedom to set your own schedule. This role is ...

Research Director

Helena, MT · Remote

$50 - $60/hr

We are looking for a Research Director to join our team to help train the next generation of AI while enjoying the flexibility of remote work and the freedom to set your own schedule. This role is ...

The ENLACES Research Director is a key leadership role reporting directly to the Dean, Sanford College of Education. Leads, in collaboration with the Dean, research efforts with functional area ...

Market Research Director Since day one, BioVid's formula for success has been driven by a collaborative, high-performing, and growth-focused culture, where talented individuals are empowered to push ...

Salary: 130,000+ Market Research Director Since day one, BioVids formula for success has been driven by a collaborative, high-performing, and growth-focused culture, where talented individuals are ...

Market Research Director Since day one, BioVid's formula for success has been driven by a collaborative, high-performing, and growth-focused culture, where talented individuals are empowered to push ...

We are seeking an Assistant Research Director, Compensation Research to join our Compensation Research team. In this role, you will analyze financial services industry data, support benchmarking ...

Strategy & Research Director

OR · Remote

$152K - $202K/yr

The Role The Director of Strategy & Research is a critical role in the transformation and growth story of Lumen. This role leads the creation of research insights leading to production of public ...

The AI Research Director will lead webAI's advanced research initiatives across large language models, multimodal systems, edge inference, and distributed AI. This role drives the scientific vision ...

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Showing results 1-20

Research Director information

See salary details

$57.5K

$191.3K

$230.5K

How much do research director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for research director in the United States is $191,320.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,500.00 and $229,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 does a Research Director do?

A Research Director oversees the planning, execution, and management of research projects within an organization. They are responsible for setting research goals, developing strategies, and ensuring that projects align with the company's objectives. Research Directors lead teams of researchers, manage budgets, and analyze data to drive decision-making. Additionally, they often present findings to stakeholders and keep up-to-date with advancements in their field to maintain the organization's competitive edge.

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 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.
What cities are hiring for Research Director jobs? Cities with the most Research Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs? The most popular types of Research jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Research Director jobs? The top employers for Research Director jobs are:
What states have the most Research Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Research Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Research Director job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $191,320 per year, or $92 per hour.