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Research Operations Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Rochester

$70K - $105K/yr

In collaboration with the NCDHR, Director, and with minimal direction and substantial latitude for ... as the CDC PRC Operations Committee). Research * Manage discussions with NCDHR team and ...

Astera

Manager, Research Operations

East Brunswick, NJ · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

The position operates under the general supervision of the Director of Clinical Research and ... operations. * Manage site qualification, initiation, and close-out visits with study sponsors to ...

Justworks

Research Operations Lead

New York, NY · On-site

Define the vision, roadmap, and OKRs for Research & Insights operations in close partnership with the Senior Director. Identify where shared vs. dedicated infrastructure creates the most leverage ...

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$34K

$107.7K

$179.5K

How much do research operations director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for research operations director in the United States is $107,680.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $135,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main challenges a Research Operations Director faces in supporting cross-functional research teams?

A Research Operations Director often navigates challenges such as coordinating resources across multiple research projects, ensuring consistent processes, and managing communication between diverse stakeholders like researchers, product managers, and leadership. Balancing the needs of various teams while maintaining research quality and compliance can be complex, especially as organizations scale. Effective directors establish standardized procedures, foster a culture of collaboration, and implement tools that streamline workflows to address these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research Operations Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Operations Director, you need expertise in research management, process optimization, and budgeting, often supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with project management software, compliance systems, and data analysis tools is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities are crucial for leading teams and coordinating complex projects. These skills ensure efficient research operations, compliance with regulations, and the successful delivery of research outcomes.

What is a Research Operations Director?

A Research Operations Director is a senior professional responsible for overseeing the infrastructure, processes, and resources that support research activities within an organization. They manage teams, budgets, and systems to ensure research projects run efficiently and comply with regulatory standards. Their role often includes improving workflow, implementing best practices, and supporting researchers with tools and training. The goal is to streamline research operations and enhance the impact of research outcomes.

What is the difference between Research Operations Director vs Research Manager?

AspectResearch Operations DirectorResearch Manager
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees (e.g., Master’s or PhD) and extensive experience in research managementUsually holds a bachelor’s or master’s degree with several years of research experience
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple research teams, manages operations, and aligns research strategies with organizational goalsManages specific research projects or teams, focusing on execution and deliverables
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in large corporations, tech companies, and research institutionsFound across various industries including tech, healthcare, and market research firms

The Research Operations Director focuses on strategic oversight and operational management of research functions, while the Research Manager handles day-to-day project execution. Both roles require research expertise, but the director role involves broader leadership and organizational responsibilities.

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Research Operations Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Operations Director job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,680 per year, or $51.8 per hour.
Manager, Research Operations, Academic Affairs

Manager, Research Operations, Academic Affairs

UT Southwestern Medical Center

Dallas, TX

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

UT Southwestern rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description

WHY UT SOUTHWESTERN?
With over 75 years of excellence in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, UT Southwestern is committed to excellence, innovation, teamwork, and compassion. As a world-renowned medical and research center, we strive to provide the best possible care, resources, and benefits for our valued employees. Ranked as the number 1 hospital in Dallas-Fort Worth according to U.S. News & World Report, we invest in you with opportunities for career growth and development to align with your future goals. Our highly competitive benefits package offers healthcare, PTO and paid holidays, on-site childcare, wage, merit increases and so much more. We invite you to be a part of the UT Southwestern team where you'll discover a culture of teamwork, professionalism, and a rewarding career!
JOB SUMMARY
The Manager of Research Operations Academic Affairs will support Basic Science and Center Administrators, acting as a liaison for the Office of the Provost. This role provides essential operational support across the research enterprise, ensuring effective communication, continuity of services, and alignment with institutional priorities. Reporting to the Director of Research Operations, the Manager will help departments navigate complex research administrative processes, address operational challenges, and contribute to initiatives that strengthen UTSW's research infrastructure, efficiency, and overall research environment.

BENEFITS
UT Southwestern is proud to offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. Our benefits are designed to support your overall wellbeing, and include:

  • PPO medical plan, available day one at no cost for full-time employee-only coverage
  • 100% coverage for preventive healthcare-no copay
  • Paid Time Off, available day one
  • Retirement Programs through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS)
  • Paid Parental Leave Benefit
  • Wellness programs
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer
  • Learn more about these and other UTSW employee benefits!

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION
Required
  • Education
    Bachelor's Degree
  • Experience
    5 years of progressive experience with an academic health system or hospital, to include at least 1-2 years in a management role.
    Equivalent related experience may be used in lieu of degree.
Preferred
  • Education
    Master's Degree in business, finance, or related field.

JOB DUTIES
  • Partners with the Director of Research Operations to drive operational excellence, service consistency, and compliance.
  • Ensures continuity of research operations within assigned departments and centers by assessing needs, identifying gaps, and implementing effective short- and long-term solutions.
  • Oversees and manages special projects that impact the research community, ensuring timely execution, cross-functional coordination, and alignment with institutional goals.
  • Plans and organizes research-related events, including symposia, seminars, conferences, and meetings, coordinating logistics and supporting faculty and administrative partners.
  • Identifies operational and quality issues, analyzes data and trends, facilitates stakeholder meetings, and develops recommendations for process, performance, and quality improvement.
  • Supervises operational staff, providing guidance, mentorship, and oversight to ensure high-quality support and consistent performance.
  • Develops and delivers operational reports and ad hoc analyses to support leadership decision-making, monitor key indicators, and promote transparency and efficiency across research operations.
  • Manages operational projects assigned by the Director of Research Operations, contributing to process improvements and system enhancements that advance the overall research enterprise.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

SECURITY AND EEO STATEMENT
Security
This position is security-sensitive and subject to Texas Education Code 51.215, which authorizes UT Southwestern to obtain criminal history record information.
EEO
UT Southwestern Medical Center is committed to an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community. As an equal opportunity employer, UT Southwestern prohibits unlawful discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or veteran status.

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