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.
Staff+ Software Engineer, Account Abuse (Machine Learning)
$320K - $485K *
Optimize machine learning systems to detect and prevent account abuse at scale. Collaborate with teams to build tools that enhance model performance while ensuring robust, fair computing resource allo...
3 weeks ago
$120K - $145K *
Unlock potential by leveraging data science to enhance fraud strategies, drive client engagement, and develop impactful solutions. Collaborate with cross-functional teams and utilize machine learning...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Principal Scientist, Biology (Immunology)
$179K - $198K *
Lead groundbreaking research in immunology, advancing targeted therapies for autoimmune diseases by integrating biology, pharmacology, and chemistry, while fostering innovation and team collaboration...
Reposted 5 days ago
Director, Machine Learning, Alzheimer's Disease Initiative
$380K - $420K *
Join a team that seeks a scientific leader to develop advanced machine learning models focused on Alzheimer’s research, driving innovation through interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on manageme...
4 weeks ago
$265K - $306K *
Pioneer data-driven solutions in a thriving fintech environment. Join our collaborative data science team to drive product innovation and shape strategic decisions that enhance customer experience and...
3 weeks ago
$150K - $180K *
Accelerate product strategy and delivery in an evolving security landscape. Own roadmap execution, collaborate with engineering, and engage with customers to build trust and drive innovation. Measure...
Reposted 4 weeks ago
Lead Federal Project Manager - Federal Transformation Office (FTO)
$91K - $187K *
Optimize project delivery by leading complex Federal initiatives, driving cross-functional collaboration, and ensuring alignment with strategic goals. Manage multiple projects from planning to executi...
2 weeks ago
Lead Federal Project Manager - Federal Transformation Office (FTO)
$91K - $187K *
Engage in leading complex Federal projects, driving operational excellence and transformation initiatives. Collaborate across teams to implement strategic solutions, manage dependencies, and ensure su...
2 weeks ago
$50K - $180K *
Drive project success by managing all aspects of program execution, from budgeting to risk management. Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure goals are met while fostering a positive, inclusive work...
2 weeks ago
$144K - $198K *
Transform cutting-edge laser technologies by leading innovative research and development efforts. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance high-power laser systems, driving advancements in o...
3 weeks ago
$150K - $180K *
Join a team that's redefining intelligence architecture by crafting context and standards for autonomous agents. Drive measurable outcomes through effective communication and system structure, enhanci...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Play a key role in market research initiatives by leading diverse healthcare projects, collaborating closely with clients and cross-functional teams to ensure objectives are met and impactful insights...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$82K - $108K *
Champion the design and development of manufacturing processes for innovative radiopharmaceuticals, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure successful technology transfer and analytical me...
Yesterday
Applied Scientist, TSI Science
$142K - $193K *
Shape advanced machine learning solutions to enhance eCommerce fraud detection, driving impactful business value through innovative algorithms and automation in a collaborative, diverse team environme...
2 weeks ago
Scientist II / Senior Scientist, Electron Diffraction Characterization
$128K - $198K *
Drive the development and validation of electron diffraction characterization workflows, translating complex data into structured outputs to enhance materials discovery and collaboration with cross-fu...
Reposted 6 days ago
$95K - $115K *
Empower your career by investigating computer security incidents and exploiting media to derive actionable intelligence, while enhancing network resilience through expert analysis and forensic insight...
3 weeks ago
$120K - $160K *
Elevate your career by providing high-level administrative support to the CEO. Manage calendars, communications, and special projects while ensuring confidentiality and efficiency in a dynamic environ...
1 week ago
$127K - $157K *
Develop and lead a comprehensive Biosafety Program, ensuring compliance and safety in biological research. Collaborate across teams to enhance safety practices and provide expert guidance on biosafety...
2 days ago
Applied AI Architect, Public Sector (GovTech)
$275K - $315K *
Engage as a trusted technical advisor, guiding customers through the integration of AI solutions. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to architect scalable systems, ensuring alignment with busines...
Today
$115K - $190K *
Unlock potential by providing critical technical support for government software systems. Thrive in a dynamic environment, leveraging your engineering expertise to ensure smooth operations and enhance...
4 weeks ago
$115K - $190K *
Develop comprehensive engineering solutions that address operational needs while synthesizing high-level requirements into documentation and repeatable procedures for a critical government contract...
4 weeks ago
Senior Computational Scientist
$180K - $250K *
Join a team that's at the forefront of computational science, driving innovation in AI/ML and high-performance computing. Lead the development of advanced models that support critical national securit...
Today
Research Engineer, Live Experiment Analysis
$207K - $300K *
Drive innovative solutions by leveraging machine learning and software engineering expertise. Collaborate across teams to enhance data analysis, improve user experiences, and tackle complex challenges...
1 week ago
$68K - $114K *
Unlock potential by joining a dynamic team focused on developing innovative biological therapeutics and vaccines. Contribute to method development and quality assessment in a fast-paced environment, c...
2 days ago
$161K - $232K *
Drive program success by managing cost, schedule, and technical performance while fostering customer relationships and leading agile software development initiatives from inception to completion...
3 days ago
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.