Natural Sciences Managers
O*NET 11-9121.00 · SOC 11-9121
Natural Sciences Manager is a strong career choice. Median pay is $167k a year with +8.2% projected growth through 2035 (faster than average) and about 9,200 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Direct and coordinate research activities of scientific staff
- →Review and approve scientific proposals and research plans
- →Manage laboratory budgets and allocate research resources
- →Recruit and supervise scientists, technicians, and support staff
- →Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards
Education & How to Get In
Natural Sciences Manager roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Natural Sciences Manager involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Natural Sciences Manager?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Natural Sciences Manager Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Natural Sciences Managers is projected to grow 8.2% from 2025 to 2035, faster than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·30% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
- ·33% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Natural Sciences Manager make?
The median Natural Sciences Manager earns $167k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Natural Sciences Manager jobs?
Our model puts Natural Sciences Manager at 32 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 30% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace; 33% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Natural Sciences Manager a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 8.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is faster than average. That works out to roughly 9,200 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Natural Sciences Manager?
Natural Sciences Manager roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Natural Sciences Manager?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Natural Sciences Manager career right for you?
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