Natural Sciences Managers Salary Guide 2025: $167,220 Median, Top States Pay Over $260K
Natural Sciences Managers oversee teams of scientists—biologists, chemists, physicists—turning research into products or policies. The median annual salary is $167,220, with the top 10% earning more than $316,850. That's roughly $80 per hour at the mean wage of $180,250.
How much Natural Sciences Managers earn
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national median salary for Natural Sciences Managers is $167,220. The mean wage is $180,250, which translates to about $86.66 per hour. Entry-level positions (10th percentile) start around $79,710, while experienced managers in the 90th percentile bring in $316,850 or more.
Pay depends heavily on industry and experience. Managers in scientific research and development services tend to earn more than those in government or educational services, though government roles often offer stronger benefits and job security.
- Median: $167,220
- Mean: $180,250 ($86.66/hr)
- 10th percentile: $79,710
- 90th percentile: $316,850
Pay by state
Where you work matters. The highest-paying state for Natural Sciences Managers is Massachusetts, with an annual mean wage of $267,290—that's 48% above the national median. Connecticut ranks second at $210,670, followed by California ($210,230), New Jersey ($207,030), and Washington ($182,480).
On the lower end, Wyoming pays $109,300, Indiana $108,250, and Hawaii $107,810. In these states, cost of living is lower, but the salary gap can be significant—over $150,000 less than Massachusetts.
- Top: Massachusetts ($267,290), Connecticut ($210,670), California ($210,230)
- Bottom: Hawaii ($107,810), Indiana ($108,250), Wyoming ($109,300)
How to become a Natural Sciences Manager
Most Natural Sciences Managers start with a bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline like biology, chemistry, or physics. A master's or Ph.D. is common, especially in competitive fields like pharmaceutical R&D. Many managers also have a Master of Business Administration (MBA) to strengthen their leadership and business skills.
The typical path: several years of experience as a research scientist or project lead, then a promotion to manager. Certification is not required, but the Project Management Professional (PMP) credential can help. Key skills include communication, budgeting, regulatory knowledge, and the ability to translate technical concepts for non-scientists.
- Earn a bachelor's in a natural science (biology, chemistry, physics, etc.)
- Gain 5–10 years of research or lab experience
- Consider a master's, Ph.D., or MBA for advancement
- Develop management skills: team leadership, budgeting, regulatory compliance
- Optional: earn a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment of Natural Sciences Managers will grow 3.7% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 8,500 job openings per year, many of which will come from retirements and transfers.
There are currently 108,690 Natural Sciences Managers employed nationwide. Demand is driven by continued investment in scientific research, especially in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and environmental sciences. Strong competition is expected for the highest-paying positions, but candidates with advanced degrees and industry experience will have the edge.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Natural Sciences Manager do?
They plan, direct, and coordinate activities in fields like biology, chemistry, and physics. They manage teams of scientists, set research goals, oversee budgets, and ensure compliance with regulations.
Do Natural Sciences Managers need a PhD?
Not always, but many have a master's or PhD. A bachelor's degree plus significant experience can be enough, especially in industry roles.
What is the highest paying industry for Natural Sciences Managers?
Scientific research and development services typically pay the highest. Managers in pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing also earn well above the median.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Natural Sciences Managers data.