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Study Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

RPM ReSearch

Study Director

West Sacramento, CA

$74K - $110K/yr

Join Our Team as a Study Director and Research Scientist! Your New Opportunity: We're all about teamwork. Every role contributes to the discovery, development, and manufacturing of new drug therapies ...

Exelixis

DMPK Director

Alameda, CA · On-site

The DMPK Director has strong scientific, technical and leadership skills to develop and implement ... Expert knowledge of in vitro and in vivo ADME studies * Strong experience of managing external DMPK ...

Exelixis

DMPK Director

Alameda, CA · On-site

The DMPK Director has strong scientific, technical and leadership skills to develop and implement ... Expert knowledge of in vitro and in vivo ADME studies * Strong experience of managing external DMPK ...

Exelixis

DMPK Director

Alameda, CA

The DMPK Director has strong scientific, technical and leadership skills to develop and implement ... Expert knowledge of in vitro and in vivo ADME studies * Strong experience of managing external DMPK ...

RPM ReSearch

Ocular Research Scientist

San Diego, CA

$80K/yr

Research Scientist/Study Director Ocular Description: We are seeking to find an accomplished Ocular Scientist with requirements of a broad knowledge of Ocular anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry to ...

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All JobsStudy JobsStudy Director JobsStudy Director Jobs in California

Study Director information

See California salary details

$44.4K

$126.7K

$229.5K

How much do study director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for study director in California is $126,686.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,200.00 and $186,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in research?

In research, senior roles such as Principal Investigator, Research Director, or Chief Scientific Officer tend to be the highest paying, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills in specialized fields like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or data science.

What is the difference between Study Director vs Laboratory Manager?

AspectStudy DirectorLaboratory Manager
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees (e.g., MS, PhD) and relevant certificationsRequires relevant degrees and management experience, but not necessarily advanced research credentials
Work EnvironmentLeads specific research or regulatory studies, often in contract labs or pharmaceutical companiesOversees daily lab operations, staff, and compliance across multiple projects
Industry UsageCommonly used in GLP, clinical, and research settingsUsed broadly in laboratory settings across industries

The Study Director focuses on designing, overseeing, and ensuring the integrity of specific studies, often requiring scientific expertise. The Laboratory Manager handles overall lab operations, staff management, and compliance. Both roles are essential but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What is a Study Director?

A Study Director is the individual responsible for the overall conduct of a scientific study, particularly in regulated environments such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, or environmental research. They oversee the planning, execution, and reporting of studies to ensure they comply with regulatory standards, such as Good Laboratory Practice (GLP). The Study Director acts as the main point of control and communication, coordinating among team members and ensuring that the study meets its scientific and regulatory objectives. Their role is critical for the integrity and quality of the data generated.

How does a Study Director typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a research project?

As a Study Director, you play a central role in coordinating research activities by regularly collaborating with scientists, technicians, quality assurance personnel, and regulatory teams. You are responsible for ensuring all team members are aligned on study objectives, timelines, and compliance requirements. Effective communication and leadership are essential, as you facilitate meetings, delegate tasks, and resolve issues that arise to keep the project on track. This collaborative environment not only fosters professional growth but also provides valuable exposure to various scientific and operational domains within the organization.

What Is the Job of a Study Director?

As a study director, your job is to manage studies, analyze results, and interpret reports so you can deliver a summary of the findings. This work has three categories. First, on the technical side, your job includes creating the plan for the study, coordinating with other scientists, and overseeing data collection. In the administrative role, you monitor junior employees and ensure each investigation finishes within budgetary constraints. In the compliance role, you ensure that each study happens under strict safety and ethics protocols. You may be asked to run multiple studies at the same time, adding to the complexity of this position.

How to become a study director?

To become a study director, typically a candidate needs a bachelor's degree in a scientific field such as biology, chemistry, or related disciplines, along with several years of experience in laboratory or research settings. Advanced roles often require a master's or doctoral degree and knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and regulatory requirements. Developing strong project management, leadership skills, and familiarity with relevant testing methods are also important for this role.

How much do research directors make in the US?

Research directors, including study directors in research settings, typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $120,000 in the US, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often require advanced degrees and strong project management skills to oversee research projects effectively.

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

To thrive as a Study Director, you need a solid background in scientific research methods, regulatory compliance, and study protocol development, usually supported by an advanced degree in life sciences or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards, and project management tools is highly valued. Strong leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing cross-functional teams and ensuring study integrity. These competencies are vital to ensure regulatory adherence, data accuracy, and successful project outcomes in research environments.

What is the role of a study director?

A study director is responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing scientific studies, ensuring they comply with regulatory standards such as Good Laboratory Practice (GLP). They coordinate research activities, analyze data, and prepare reports to support product development or safety assessments.
More about Study Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Study jobs in California? The most popular types of Study jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Study Director jobs in California? For Study Director jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Study Director jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Study Director jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Study Director jobs? Cities in California with the most Study Director job openings:
Study Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Study Director job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,686 per year, or $60.9 per hour.
Study Director

Study Director

RPM ReSearch

West Sacramento, CA

$74K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Join Our Team as a Study Director and Research Scientist!

Your New Opportunity: We're all about teamwork. Every role contributes to the discovery, development, and manufacturing of new drug therapies, helping us get them to the people who need them faster. By living our values—Employee Development, Customer Focus, Quality and Excellence, Respect, and Integrity—we create a passionate, collaborative work environment. Whether you’re a recent graduate or seeking your next career move, your future could be with us.


Why Join Us?

  • Impactful Work: Play a significant role in global health and well-being.
  • Collaborative Environment: Work with a team that values your input and expertise.
  • Growth Opportunities: Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to advance, we offer a dynamic environment to grow and thrive.


The Role: Study Director, Research Scientist Are you passionate about preclinical research? As a Study Director, you’ll be the single point of control for assigned studies, responsible for the interpretation, analysis, documentation, and reporting of study results for both GLP and non-GLP studies.


What You’ll Do:

  • Oversee the technical conduct of studies and manage the interpretation, analysis, and reporting of results.
  • Perform duties following GLPs and other relevant regulations.
  • Collaborate with sponsors, study directors, and others to optimize protocol design.
  • Coordinate study schedules and logistics with clients, subcontractors, and internal departments.
  • Ensure study personnel are properly trained and educated for their roles.
  • Monitor study milestones and ensure accurate recording and verification of all experimental data.
  • Communicate ongoing study activities and results to sponsors.
  • Analyze and interpret study data, preparing comprehensive study reports.
  • Maintain documentation, protocols, and study reports, ensuring all are archived appropriately.
  • Review, revise, and write SOPs as necessary.


What You Need to Succeed:

  • Education: Master’s or Doctoral Degree in a relevant scientific discipline (or equivalent experience).
  • Experience: 3+ years as a Study Director for in vivo studies in a biopharmaceutical company or CRO. Experience in Toxicology is a plus.
  • Skills: Intermediate to Advanced Computer Skills, strong planning and organizational skills, ability to manage change, and effective communication of scientific data.
  • Other: Must complete Study Director Training and maintain ongoing scientific and professional education.