Natural sciences manager

Natural sciences managers supervise and direct research and development in life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics and statistics for a research institute or university.

Also known as

Laboratory manager, environmental issues manager, environmental manager, hazard substances manager, natural and physical science manager, natural resources manager, research and development manager

Work environment

  • Usually work regular business hours but may work extra hours
  • Usually work at laboratories, universities and science research facilities
  • Need to be accurate, lead others and identify and solve problems

Salary information

MOST COMMON
UPPER
LOWER
$60K-$192K 60000

Typical tasks

  • Manage research projects for organisations
  • Lead and support research teams
  • Manage staff performance
  • Hire and train science workers
  • Plan and improve research methods
  • Analyse data to make decisions
  • Create and update research plans
  • Write reports on research progress
  • Work with other science groups
  • Organise research tools and supplies

Outlook

New Zealand’s science and innovation sector is focused on addressing challenges in areas such as health, climate, biosecurity, agriculture and technology. Research organisations are increasingly working across disciplines and using advanced data, artificial intelligence and digital tools. Globally, stronger links between science, innovation and industry are creating new opportunities to turn research into practical solutions with real-world impact.

What employers and industry want in graduates

  • Leadership and team management skills
  • Strategic planning and decision-making ability
  • Strong communication with researchers and stakeholders
  • Problem-solving and analytical thinking
  • Ability to manage projects and resources effectively
  • Adaptability in fast-changing scientific environments

AUT programmes

The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.

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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.