What They Do
Natural sciences managers plan, supervise, or coordinate activities in fields such as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, and statistics. They direct work related to research and development and coordinate activities such as testing, quality control, and production.
Duties
Natural sciences managers typically do the following:
- Set goals and strategies for researchers and product developers
- Budget resources for projects and programs by determining staffing, training, and equipment needs
- Hire, supervise, and evaluate scientists, technicians, and other staff
- Monitor projects, review research, and draft operational reports
- Ensure that laboratories are stocked with equipment and supplies
- Provide technical guidance to scientists, technicians, and support staff
- Establish administrative procedures and standards
- Communicate project proposals, research findings, and project status to clients and management
Natural sciences managers direct research and coordinate product development and production activities. Their duties vary with the field (such as biology or chemistry) or the industry (such as research and development or government) they work in. Research projects may focus on improving manufacturing processes, advancing scientific knowledge, or developing new products.
Some natural sciences managers are former scientists and, after becoming managers, continue to conduct their own research as well as oversee others’ work. Others spend most of their time directing the work of scientists, technicians, or research staff.
Natural sciences managers who oversee experiments must ensure that laboratories are fully supplied so that scientists can run their tests. Some specialize in managing activities related to laboratory animals.
During all stages of a project, natural sciences managers coordinate the activities of their unit with those of other units or organizations. They work with other managers; financial, production, and marketing specialists; and equipment and materials suppliers.
Work Environment
Natural sciences managers held about 104,300 jobs in 2024. The largest employers of natural sciences managers were as follows:
| Research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences | 39% |
| Federal government, excluding postal service | 13 |
| Manufacturing | 8 |
| Healthcare and social assistance | 7 |
| State government, excluding education and hospitals | 5 |
Natural sciences managers work primarily in an office setting or in laboratories. Some work in manufacturing or warehousing facilities, and others work outdoors to observe fieldwork.
Natural sciences managers who work in laboratories may need to follow safety protocols, such as wearing a respirator or other personal protective equipment, to avoid exposure to harmful contaminants. Those who work outdoors may need to travel, sometimes to hazardous locations, and work in a variety of weather conditions.
Work Schedules
Most natural sciences managers work full time, and some work more than 40 hours per week. They also may need to work evenings or weekends.
How to Become One
Natural sciences managers typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in a natural science or related field. Most work as scientists before becoming managers.
Pay
The median annual wage for natural sciences managers was $161,180 in May 2024.
Job Outlook
Employment of natural sciences managers is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
About 8,500 openings for natural sciences managers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.