Chief Scientists guide an organization’s scientific vision, research strategy, and technical innovation. These senior leaders help turn complex research into meaningful products, services, and discoveries while advising executives on scientific opportunities and risks. Explore vetted Chief Scientist opportunities paying $100,000 or more on Ladders.
Responsibilities vary by organization and industry, but commonly include setting research priorities, leading multidisciplinary teams, overseeing experiments and development programs, evaluating emerging technologies, and communicating findings to business and government leaders. Chief Scientists may also shape research budgets, build partnerships with universities or laboratories, and ensure that work meets ethical, regulatory, and quality standards.
Employers often seek a strong record of scientific achievement, deep expertise in a relevant discipline, and experience leading research teams or complex programs. A doctoral degree is common in many fields, though requirements depend on the role. Strategic thinking, clear communication, collaboration, and the ability to connect scientific evidence with organizational goals are valuable across industries.
Chief Scientist roles are available in areas such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, artificial intelligence, aerospace, energy, government, and advanced manufacturing. Titles and reporting structures differ: some positions focus on fundamental research, while others lead applied science, product development, or enterprise-wide innovation.
Use Ladders to explore vetted professional opportunities with salaries of $100,000 or more. Review each listing’s responsibilities, qualifications, location, and compensation details to identify roles that fit your expertise and leadership goals.
$180K - $230K *
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Champion strategic research initiatives to enhance product efficacy and student success. Collaborate cross-functionally to drive impactful studies, mentor a growing team, and translate findings into a...
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Transform enterprise technology by leading modernization initiatives, enhancing engineering practices, and enabling responsible AI adoption across diverse platforms. Collaborate with stakeholders to d...
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$73K - $110K *
Deliver scientific leadership and technical oversight in forensic DNA analysis, ensuring quality results. Oversee complex testing, support validation, and provide expert testimony while training staff...
4 weeks ago
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$160K - $190K *
Transform security solutions across multiple domains, driving technical direction and collaboration to address high-risk items and enhance Meta's security posture company-wide. Lead cross-functional t...
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Strategy & Operations Program Manager, Global Technical Enablement
$136K - $185K *
Champion the future of operational excellence by partnering with senior leaders to architect strategies and build an agile organizational framework that drives multi-team alignment and seamless execut...
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$175K - $225K *
Join a dynamic team as a technical partner lead, driving integrations and collaborating with partners. Leverage your expertise to shape architecture, enhance security, and create repeatable patterns a...
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Solutions Architect II (Higher Ed/SAAS/SIS/ERP)
$110K - $130K *
Lead the charge in designing innovative solutions across multiple higher education platforms. Collaborate with teams to implement best practices and ensure alignment with institutional goals, driving...
3 weeks ago
Sr. Principal Technical Program Manager
$164K - $295K *
Optimize the delivery of advanced server rack solutions by leading cross-functional teams, managing complex hardware programs, and ensuring alignment with hyperscale data center requirements for next...
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$130K - $160K *
Drive strategic initiatives in fintech, translating market insights into actionable priorities. Engage with cross-functional teams, define key frameworks, and craft narratives for leadership decisions...
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AfroTech 2026 Technical Program Manager, Software Deployments
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Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing public safety through innovative SaaS solutions. As a Technical Program Manager, you'll lead complex deployments, ensuring alignment with customer needs and d...
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Organizational Development Analyst
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Project Manager, Global Clinical Supplies
$100K - $120K *
Advance progress at the intersection of clinical trials and supply chain management. Leverage your expertise to streamline processes, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and ensure successful pro...
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Principal Polymer Processing Engineer, Injection Molding
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$400K - $450K *
Lead and inspire a high-performing sales team to engage F500 executives, driving complex sales cycles and fostering deep relationships to maximize revenue growth in the enterprise sector...
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$122K - $175K *
Elevate your career by joining our team as a Staff Threat Researcher, where you'll analyze complex cyber threats, develop detection methodologies, and enhance our defensive capabilities across diverse...
3 weeks ago
Enterprise Architect, AWS Practice
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Unlock the potential of complex AWS engagements by anchoring architecture across delivery, security, and client relations. Become the key strategist who connects technical design to business excellenc...
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Lead Director - Data Scientist - Forecasting Accuracy and Analytical insights for Underwriting
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Shape the future of underwriting analytics by leading a team of data scientists to enhance forecasting accuracy and drive strategic insights, ensuring financial integrity and operational excellence ac...
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What does a Chief Scientist do?
A Chief Scientist leads or advises an organization’s research and scientific strategy. The role may include setting priorities, managing research teams, evaluating new technologies, overseeing development programs, and communicating scientific findings to senior leaders.
What qualifications are typically required for Chief Scientist jobs?
Requirements depend on the field and employer. Many positions call for advanced expertise, a strong record of research or innovation, and experience leading teams or programs. A Ph.D. is common in some scientific disciplines, while other roles may value equivalent industry experience.
Which industries hire Chief Scientists?
Chief Scientists work in fields including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, artificial intelligence, aerospace, energy, government, and advanced manufacturing.
How much do Chief Scientists earn?
Compensation varies by industry, location, organization, and scope of responsibility. Ladders focuses on vetted professional jobs paying $100,000 or more; check individual listings for available salary information.
How can I find Chief Scientist jobs paying $100,000 or more?
Browse Chief Scientist listings on Ladders and review each role’s salary information, responsibilities, location, and qualifications to find opportunities suited to your background.