What Natural Sciences Managers Do

Natural sciences managers supervise the work of scientists, including chemists, physicists, and biologists. They plan and direct research and development projects and coordinate activities such as testing, quality control, and production.

Duties

Natural sciences managers typically do the following:

• Work with top executives to determine scientific and technical goals of research and development and make detailed plans to accomplish these goals
• Prepare budgets for projects and programs and determine staff, training, and equipment needs
• Hire, supervise, and evaluate scientists, engineers, technicians, and other staff
• Review the accuracy of their staff’s work and the soundness of the methods the staff uses
• Monitor the progress of projects and prepare and review research, testing, and operational reports
• Provide technical assistance to scientists, technicians, and support staff
• Establish administrative procedures, policies, or standards—such as environmental standards
• Communicate with clients and top management to explain proposals, present research findings, establish specifications, or discuss the status of a project

Natural sciences managers direct scientific research and development projects and coordinate activities such as testing, quality control, and production. Research projects can have many aims, including improving manufacturing processes, advancing scientific research, and developing new products. Most natural sciences managers are former scientists, and after becoming managers, many continue to conduct their own research in addition to overseeing the work of others.

During all stages of a project, natural sciences managers spend a lot of time coordinating the activities of their unit with those of other units or organizations. They confer with higher levels of management; with financial, production, marketing, and other managers; with contractors; and with equipment and materials suppliers.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition