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Research Program Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Research Program Manager information

See California salary details

$38K

$106.1K

$154.9K

How much do research program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for research program manager in California is $106,053.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $130,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Research Program Manager vs Research Coordinator?

AspectResearch Program ManagerResearch Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in relevant field; experience in research managementBachelor's degree; often entry-level or related experience
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects, manages teams, liaises with stakeholdersSupports research activities, manages data collection, assists with study logistics
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech companiesAcademic institutions, clinical research organizations, hospitals
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial roles in research projectsEntry-level research support roles

The Research Program Manager typically oversees multiple research projects, manages teams, and coordinates with stakeholders, requiring more experience and advanced credentials. In contrast, Research Coordinators focus on supporting research activities, managing data collection, and assisting with logistics, often at an entry-level. Both roles are essential in research settings but differ in scope, responsibilities, and experience requirements.

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

To thrive as a Research Program Manager, you need expertise in project management, research methodologies, and a relevant academic background such as a master's or PhD in a related field. Familiarity with project management tools (like Asana or Microsoft Project), research compliance systems, and data analysis software is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills help you coordinate teams and manage stakeholder expectations effectively. These competencies ensure research projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to rigorous academic or industry standards.

How does a Research Program Manager typically collaborate with principal investigators and research teams?

A Research Program Manager plays a central role in coordinating between principal investigators, research staff, and administrative personnel. They facilitate regular meetings, ensure project milestones are met, and help resolve any logistical or resource challenges that arise. By managing timelines, budgets, and compliance requirements, they act as a bridge to keep all team members aligned and informed. This collaborative approach not only streamlines communication but also supports successful grant submissions and project outcomes.

What is a Research Program Manager?

A Research Program Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of research projects within an organization or academic setting. They coordinate between researchers, stakeholders, and administrative teams to ensure projects meet objectives, stay within budget, and follow timelines. Their responsibilities often include managing resources, monitoring progress, facilitating communication, and ensuring compliance with ethical and regulatory requirements. Research Program Managers play a critical role in translating research goals into actionable plans and successful outcomes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Program jobs in California? The most popular types of Research Program jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Program Manager jobs in California? For Research Program Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Clinical Research Program Administrator

Clinical Research Program Administrator

University of Southern California

San Diego, CA

$99K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


University Of Southern California rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

95th of 535 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The USC Keck School of Medicine - Alzheimer Therapeutic Research Institute (ATRI), located in San Diego, California is an academic institute comprised of an expert panel of scientific collaborators committed to advancing the development of new treatments for Alzheimer's Disease (AD) through innovative clinical trials.Incumbent will support the medical monitoring team in providing oversight to the progress of clinical trials at study sites, and ensure that they are conducted, recorded, and reported in accordance with the protocol, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and the applicable regulatoryrequirements(s).Duties will include but are not limited to:

  • Supportsmedical monitoring during study conduct, assists in answering site questions on inclusion/exclusion criteria or other protocol questions, assists in evaluating AEs and SAEs, laboratory and other safety parameters, medical history, and concomitant medications.
  • Assesses and evaluates protocol deviations and recommends on actions to be taken.
  • Communicates with reportingsite investigatorsand site staff regarding medical and safety issues.
  • Interacts with medical monitors and site clinical monitors to provide supportto medical safety team
  • Contributes to development of Safety Management Plans,Medical Monitoring Plans, Clinical Monitoring Plans, Pharmacovigilance Plans, and Risk Management Plans
  • Assists in performing MedDRA and WHODrug coding
  • Attends and/or presents at investigator, internal and external project team meetings.
  • Assists in overseeing the Medical Safety Specialist team within the Medical Safety unit
  • Interacts with industry and academic partners
  • Assists in scientific manuscript writing and editing

Preferred Education & Experience:

  • Medical degree or equivalent in medical-related field or life science
  • 3+ years of experience or graduate degree (master's or doctoral)
  • Understanding of Alzheimer's disease and/or the drug development process
  • Experience in interacting with cross functional study team members

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Must have a thorough knowledge of clinical research concepts, practices, and FDA regulations
  • Knowledge of ICH Guidelines regarding development phases, clinical research, and medical writing standard
  • Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply these guidelines to document writing
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, multi-task, and work effectively under pressure; adapt to change as needed; possess excellent project management skills and attention to details
  • Ability to communicate with teams to set realistic timeline expectations; demonstrated ability to deliver within agreed internal and regulatory timelines; monitor and communicate progress against milestones and escalate complex issues appropriately
  • Excellent interpersonal, active listening, and influencing skills; establishes and maintain professional and productive working relationships with team members
  • Ability to utilize a balanced approach to problems, using flexibility and persistence as appropriate
  • Read, write, and speak fluent English: excellent verbal and written communications skills

Location: San Diego, CA

The annual base salary range for this position is $99,102.14 - $141,885.98. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

Minimum Education:
Bachelor's degree
Additional Education Requirements
Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education
Minimum Experience:
3 years of related experience with specialized research and/or programs.
Addtional Experience Requirements
Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum work experience
Minimum Skills:
Related experience with specialized research and/or programs (e.g., counseling, teaching).
Ability to analyze and evaluate data, and present findings.
Excellent interpersonal and written and oral communication skills, able to problem solve and lead conflict resolutions.
Ability to interpret and apply policies/analyses/trends.
Preferred Education:
Master's degree
Preferred Experience:
5 years of related experience with specialized research and/or programs.
Preferred Skills:
Related special education, licensing, or certifications based upon program content and services.
Proven ability to lead and guide others.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this  USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$147027.htmld

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About University of Southern California

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880