Position
Salary

How much does a Research Director make?

The average salary for a Research Director is $154,796 per year in the US.

A Research Director plays a key role in guiding a company's research efforts. This position often involves overseeing projects, analyzing data, and making important decisions. The average yearly salary for a Research Director is around $154,796. This figure can vary based on experience, industry, and location.


Research Directors can earn more as they gain more experience. Entry-level directors may start around $60,000. Those with more experience can earn up to $277,115 per year. This salary range reflects the importance of the role and the skills needed to succeed. Companies often look for directors who can lead teams, manage budgets, and deliver results.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Research Director?

Research Directors in Seattle, WA, enjoy the highest average salary, making it a prime location for this role. Boston, MA, and Washington, DC, also offer competitive pay, with Chicago, IL, and Los Angeles, CA, following closely behind. These cities provide excellent opportunities for those seeking top compensation in research leadership.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Research Director jobs, highlighting Seattle, WA with the highest at $207,032 and Los Angeles, CA with the lowest at $109,339.
  1. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $207,032
    In Seattle, leading tech companies like Amazon and Microsoft offer exciting opportunities for research leaders. Professionals here enjoy a vibrant tech scene and a strong focus on innovation.
    Find Research Director jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $179,454
    Boston is home to top research institutions and universities, providing a rich environment for research directors. Companies like Harvard and MIT create a dynamic landscape for those in the field.
    Find Research Director jobs in Boston, MA


  3. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $137,748
    Washington, DC, offers a unique blend of government and private sector research opportunities. Professionals here work with influential organizations and enjoy a strategic location for networking.
    Find Research Director jobs in Washington, DC


  4. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $122,860
    Chicago provides a diverse market for research directors, with opportunities in finance, healthcare, and education. The city's robust business environment supports growth and innovation.
    Find Research Director jobs in Chicago, IL


  5. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $109,339
    Los Angeles offers a dynamic and creative environment for research directors, with opportunities in entertainment, technology, and healthcare. The city's diverse industries provide a wide range of research possibilities.
    Find Research Director jobs in Los Angeles, CA

What are the best companies a Research Director can work for?

Bausch & Lomb offers one of the highest salaries for Research Director positions, averaging $208,500 annually. Liberty Mutual Insurance also provides a competitive salary, with Research Directors earning around $172,361 per year. Parents Anonymous Inc and EAB offer solid compensation, with average salaries of $106,500 and $92,500, respectively. These companies value research and leadership, making them attractive options for job seekers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Research Director jobs, highlighting Bausch & Lomb with the highest at $208,500 and EAB with the lowest at $92,500.
  1. Bausch & Lomb
    Average Salary: $208,500
    Bausch & Lomb offers exciting opportunities for Research Directors. They focus on eye health and are present in many locations worldwide. This role involves leading research teams to develop innovative eye care products.


  2. Liberty Mutual Insurance
    Average Salary: $172,361
    At Liberty Mutual Insurance, Research Directors play a key role in shaping the future of insurance. They work in various locations across the U.S. and are involved in research that improves customer experiences and product offerings.


  3. Parents Anonymous Inc
    Average Salary: $106,500
    Parents Anonymous Inc provides a supportive environment for Research Directors. They operate in several locations in the U.S. and focus on research that helps families in need. This role involves leading research initiatives to support their mission.


  4. EAB
    Average Salary: $92,500
    EAB offers a dynamic setting for Research Directors. They work in multiple locations across the U.S. and focus on research that enhances higher education. This role involves leading research projects to improve educational outcomes.

How to earn more as a Research Director?

To earn more as a Research Director, focus on enhancing your skills and experience. This role requires a blend of leadership, strategic thinking, and deep knowledge of research methodologies. By investing in these areas, a Research Director can significantly increase their earning potential. Building a strong network within the industry also opens up more opportunities for higher-paying positions.

Consider these key factors to boost your earnings:

  1. Advanced Education: Pursue higher degrees or certifications in research management or related fields. This can lead to more senior roles and higher salaries.
  2. Experience: Gain more years of experience in research and management. Experience often translates to higher pay.
  3. Specialization: Develop expertise in a niche area of research. Specialization can make you more valuable to employers.
  4. Leadership Skills: Improve your ability to lead teams and manage projects effectively. Strong leadership can command higher salaries.
  5. Networking: Build and maintain professional relationships. Networking can lead to job opportunities and salary negotiations.

Currently 54 Research Director job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Research Director in the US?

Learn what a Research Director does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Research Director today.
Position
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Research Director
54 Job Openings