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Research and development project manager vs product engineering manager

The differences between research and development project managers and product engineering managers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes More than 10 years to become both a research and development project manager and a product engineering manager. Additionally, a product engineering manager has an average salary of $125,592, which is higher than the $98,808 average annual salary of a research and development project manager.

The top three skills for a research and development project manager include R, project management and product development. The most important skills for a product engineering manager are project management, product management, and product engineering.

Research and development project manager vs product engineering manager overview

Research And Development Project ManagerProduct Engineering Manager
Yearly salary$98,808$125,592
Hourly rate$47.50$60.38
Growth rate2%2%
Number of jobs159,437148,619
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 68%Bachelor's Degree, 70%
Average age4848
Years of experience--

What does a research and development project manager do?

It is the responsibility of a research and development manager to research, plan, and implement new protocols and programs into their organization. Research and development managers supervise research and the development of new knowledge-based products. They create research programs that incorporate existing developments for product improvement. To become a research and development manager, one needs research experience, skills in research and development projects, and work experience in the industry.

What does a product engineering manager do?

A product engineering manager is primarily in charge of overseeing the development of products and procedures, ensuring efficiency and smooth workflow. In a manufacturing setting, their responsibilities include setting objectives, managing the budgets and schedules, coordinating engineers and specialists, implementing solutions in vulnerable areas, and developing strategies to optimize procedures. They must also monitor the progress of processes, resolving any issues promptly and efficiently. Furthermore, as a product engineering manager, it is essential to lead and encourage the workforce to reach goals, all while implementing the company's policies and regulations.

Research and development project manager vs product engineering manager salary

Research and development project managers and product engineering managers have different pay scales, as shown below.

Research And Development Project ManagerProduct Engineering Manager
Average salary$98,808$125,592
Salary rangeBetween $67,000 And $144,000Between $90,000 And $174,000
Highest paying CityBerkeley, CASan Francisco, CA
Highest paying stateCaliforniaCalifornia
Best paying companyThe Walt Disney CompanyAirbnb
Best paying industryProfessionalTechnology

Differences between research and development project manager and product engineering manager education

There are a few differences between a research and development project manager and a product engineering manager in terms of educational background:

Research And Development Project ManagerProduct Engineering Manager
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 68%Bachelor's Degree, 70%
Most common majorMechanical EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Most common collegeUniversity of Michigan - Ann ArborUniversity of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Research and development project manager vs product engineering manager demographics

Here are the differences between research and development project managers' and product engineering managers' demographics:

Research And Development Project ManagerProduct Engineering Manager
Average age4848
Gender ratioMale, 72.3% Female, 27.7%Male, 91.7% Female, 8.3%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 2.8% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 7.9% Asian, 16.5% White, 68.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2%Black or African American, 2.9% Unknown, 4.6% Hispanic or Latino, 8.3% Asian, 14.8% White, 69.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2%
LGBT Percentage9%9%

Differences between research and development project manager and product engineering manager duties and responsibilities

Research and development project manager example responsibilities.

  • Manage Linux/Apache server configuration for company version control and bug tracking, creating PHP/MySQL database on server for product specification library.
  • Prepare, organize, and review paperwork for lot release in accordance with FDA, USP, and ISO standards.
  • Comply with MFi, ISO 13485 and partner with FitLinxx (CSAFE), Netpulse (NetpulseOne) and LiveStrong.
  • Select the PLC, HMI and instrument requirements for projects.
  • Develop scope and estimate for PLC applications and DCS expansions.
  • Image creation of AutoCAD workstations-Roll out new versions-configure AutoCAD standards.
  • Show more

Product engineering manager example responsibilities.

  • Design, build and manage the ParagusIT OpenStack base private cloud.
  • Lead global engineering team in pursuit of major European OEM's medium and heavy-duty axle business.
  • Manage and coordinate communication with SME teams during disasters.
  • Manage outsourced/contract vendors and suppliers including HVAC, elevators, electrical and mechanical systems.
  • Manage a group of engineers that design semi-custom commercial / industrial HVAC and refrigeration equipment.
  • Participate and lead multiple Kaizen events, including facility layout, productivity, system integration and setup reductions.
  • Show more

Research and development project manager vs product engineering manager skills

Common research and development project manager skills
  • R, 15%
  • Project Management, 15%
  • Product Development, 7%
  • Medical Devices, 7%
  • Portfolio, 5%
  • D Project, 4%
Common product engineering manager skills
  • Project Management, 7%
  • Product Management, 7%
  • Product Engineering, 7%
  • Product Line, 5%
  • Java, 5%
  • Continuous Improvement, 5%

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