How to Become a R&D Manager

The R&D arm of a company focuses on the "research and development" of new products or services. To become an R&D manager, you'll need extensive experience in the lower echelons of research and developments as well as an advanced college degree, or an undergraduate degree coupled with more work experience.

Things You'll Need

• Undergraduate or advanced degree in related field

Instructions

Prepare Yourself for a Career in Research and Development

1. Have at least a general idea of the field you're interested in working in when you're deciding upon a college degree program. A marketing degree will be of more use to you in the research and development of consumer products than a science degree, for example. On the other hand, a science degree will serve you better if you want to become an R&D manager at, say, a pharmaceutical company.

2. Obtain a college degree, keeping in mind that graduate degrees are necessary if you want to become an R&D manager in a highly specialized, technical field.

3. Use your college's resources to land internships and summer jobs in the R&D field of an industry related to your degree program. Build experience and networking contacts before you're ready to enter the work force full-time.

Become an R&D Manager

1. Get an entry-level job working in the research and development department of a company whose business is relevant to your college degree. You can find these opportunities through word of mouth, at career fairs and by using web resources to locate employment opportunities.

2. Work hard to rise through the ranks of the R&D department. Show ambition and aptitude, even though your initial job may be laborious and make little direct use of the skills you acquired in college. Keep in mind that a lot of companies promote from within their own ranks rather than hiring managers externally.

3. Get at least 5 years' R&D experience, and consider going back to school to enhance your qualifications for management positions if you only completed a Bachelor's degree.

4. Complete your quest by networking with current R&D managers at your company as well as your company's human resource department. Let everyone at the company know you wish to be considered for a manager position when one becomes available.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for management opportunities at other companies if you're not happy with the career advancement prospects of the company or companies where you've worked to gain experience. If you have the appropriate education and work experience, you'll find a match elsewhere.