Position
Salary

How much does a Research Manager make?

The average salary for a Research Manager is $99,434 per year in the US.

A Research Manager often earns a strong salary that reflects their important role in a company. The average yearly salary for this position is about $99,434. Some Research Managers start with lower salaries, while others with more experience or in higher-paying areas can earn more. This makes it a rewarding career for those who enjoy analyzing data and guiding projects.

To give you an idea of the salary range, here are the details:

  • The bottom 10% earn less than $50,000 per year.
  • The next 10% earn between $50,000 and $67,727.
  • The middle 20% earn between $67,727 and $85,455.
  • The second highest 20% earn between $85,455 and $120,909.
  • The top 10% earn over $120,909.
Choosing this career path can offer financial benefits, especially with experience and specialization.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Research Manager?

Research Managers in San Francisco, CA, earn the highest average salary at $208,780. Seattle, WA, follows closely with an average of $191,607. Los Angeles, CA, offers a competitive average salary of $134,864. These cities provide attractive opportunities for professionals in this role. Other notable cities include Boston, MA, and Ann Arbor, MI, where Research Managers can expect salaries above $100,000. Denver, CO, and Pittsburgh, PA, also offer solid compensation packages. Job seekers can find a range of positions across these cities, all offering substantial benefits and growth potential.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Research Manager jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $208,780 and Chicago, IL with the lowest at $101,179.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $208,780
    In San Francisco, professionals can lead research teams at tech giants like Google and Salesforce. The city's innovative environment fosters growth and creativity. Competitive salaries and a dynamic work culture make it an attractive place for research managers.
    Find Research Manager jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $191,607
    Seattle offers a unique mix of tech and nature. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft need skilled leaders to manage research initiatives. The city's vibrant community and quality of life enhance job satisfaction.
    Find Research Manager jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $134,864
    Los Angeles is a hub for entertainment and technology. Research managers here work in industries ranging from film to software. The city's diverse opportunities and warm climate add to its appeal.
    Find Research Manager jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  4. Ann Arbor, MI
    Average Salary: $131,797
    Ann Arbor, home to the University of Michigan, offers a collaborative research environment. Companies like Ford and Dow Chemical value strong research leadership. The city's academic influence creates a rich, innovative atmosphere.
    Find Research Manager jobs in Ann Arbor, MI


  5. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $120,858
    Boston's historic and academic backdrop makes it ideal for research leadership. Companies like Biogen and General Electric seek experienced managers. The city’s blend of tradition and innovation attracts top talent.
    Find Research Manager jobs in Boston, MA


  6. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $120,674
    Denver combines outdoor adventure with a thriving tech scene. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Charles Schwab hire research leaders. The city’s high quality of life and outdoor activities enhance overall job satisfaction.
    Find Research Manager jobs in Denver, CO


  7. Pittsburgh, PA
    Average Salary: $110,430
    Pittsburgh’s industrial roots and tech growth present diverse opportunities. Companies like UPMC and Carnegie Mellon value research management. The city’s affordable cost of living and strong community add to the appeal.
    Find Research Manager jobs in Pittsburgh, PA


  8. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $107,267
    In Washington, DC, research managers work at influential organizations like the NIH and various think tanks. The city’s political and research-heavy environment offers unique career opportunities. Networking and professional growth are abundant.
    Find Research Manager jobs in Washington, DC


  9. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $107,015
    Atlanta is a growing tech hub with companies like Coca-Cola and Delta Air Lines. Research managers here drive innovation in diverse industries. The city’s rapid growth and vibrant culture create a stimulating work environment.
    Find Research Manager jobs in Atlanta, GA


  10. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $101,179
    Chicago offers a mix of industry and innovation. Companies such as AbbVie and Boeing need strong research leaders. The city’s diverse economy and cultural scene make it a compelling place for research professionals.
    Find Research Manager jobs in Chicago, IL

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

Among top employers, Google leads with an impressive average salary for Research Managers. Deloitte and Stanford University follow closely, offering competitive pay packages. At the mid-range, CVS Health and Rutgers University provide attractive salaries for this role, making them solid choices for job seekers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Research Manager jobs, highlighting Google with the highest at $234,533 and University of British Columbia with the lowest at $75,001.
  1. Google
    Average Salary: $234,533
    At Google, Research Managers lead teams exploring new technologies and innovations. They work across many locations, including Mountain View, CA; New York, NY; and Seattle, WA. Research Managers at Google focus on projects that shape the future of the internet and technology.


  2. Deloitte
    Average Salary: $138,317
    Deloitte offers Research Manager roles that involve managing market research projects. Deloitte has offices worldwide, including in New York, NY; San Francisco, CA; and London, UK. Research Managers at Deloitte help clients make data-driven decisions.


  3. Stanford University
    Average Salary: $131,973
    Stanford University provides Research Manager positions that focus on academic research and development. The university is located in Stanford, CA, but projects often involve collaboration with global partners. Research Managers at Stanford manage interdisciplinary research teams.


  4. CVS Health
    Average Salary: $106,710
    CVS Health has Research Manager jobs based in Woonsocket, RI. These positions involve managing healthcare research projects. Research Managers at CVS Health work on improving patient care and healthcare delivery.


  5. Rutgers University
    Average Salary: $93,493
    Rutgers University offers Research Manager roles in New Brunswick, NJ, with a focus on educational and scientific research. Research Managers at Rutgers oversee projects that contribute to academic and community development.


  6. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
    Average Salary: $82,434
    The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill provides Research Manager positions in Chapel Hill, NC, focusing on a wide range of academic research areas. Research Managers here manage projects that impact diverse fields of study.


  7. Penn State University
    Average Salary: $79,874
    Penn State University offers Research Manager roles in University Park, PA, focusing on academic research. Research Managers here manage interdisciplinary projects that advance knowledge in various fields.


  8. Johns Hopkins University
    Average Salary: $79,864
    Johns Hopkins University provides Research Manager positions in Baltimore, MD, with a focus on medical and scientific research. Research Managers at Johns Hopkins manage projects that advance healthcare and medical research.


  9. University of Pennsylvania
    Average Salary: $76,636
    The University of Pennsylvania offers Research Manager roles in Philadelphia, PA, focusing on a wide range of academic research. Research Managers here oversee projects that contribute to advancements in education and science.


  10. University of British Columbia
    Average Salary: $75,001
    The University of British Columbia provides Research Manager positions in Vancouver, Canada. These roles focus on academic and scientific research. Research Managers here manage projects that impact various research areas.

How to earn more as a Research Manager?

Want to increase your earnings as a Research Manager? Consider these key factors that can lead to higher pay. Building a solid reputation in the industry sets the foundation for earning more. This involves consistently delivering high-quality research and reports. Collaborating with other departments and leading successful projects can also boost your value.

Experience and education play a crucial role in earning potential. A master's or doctorate degree in a relevant field often leads to higher salaries. Gaining experience in various research methodologies and industries can also make a significant difference. Continuing education through workshops, seminars, and certifications can further enhance your skills and marketability.

Consider these factors for a successful career in research management:

  1. Reputation: Consistently deliver quality work.
  2. Experience: Gain skills in diverse methodologies and industries.
  3. Education: Pursue advanced degrees and certifications.
  4. Collaboration: Work with other departments for successful projects.
  5. Leadership: Lead initiatives and teams effectively.

Currently 168 Research Manager job openings, nationwide.

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

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