If management isn’t your strength, there are several upper-level positions that don’t require you to manage others. Here are five high-paying life science jobs that don’t include management.
Pictured: Scientists working in laboratory/Getty Images
As you climb the ladder and advance your career in the life sciences, it’s common to be asked to manage other people. This often takes the form of direct management, like leading a team or training new staff members.
Still, if management isn’t your strength, it’s possible to take on an upper-level position that doesn’t require you to manage others.
High-Paying Life Science Jobs that Don’t Include Management
According to BioSpace’s 2023 U.S. Life Sciences Salary Report, there are several high-paying jobs that allow those who fill them to work more independently. To help, here are job titles, descriptions, salaries and links to jobs available now.
Senior Scientist
A senior scientist is an experienced researcher who leads research projects and experiments. They most often work in the lab and are responsible for conducting research, analyzing data and presenting findings.
The average salary for a senior scientist in 2023 is $129,374. Click here to see senior scientist roles available now.
Clinical Scientist
Clinical scientists use their skills to develop new treatments, therapies and medical devices. There are different types of clinical scientists, including clinical research scientists, clinical laboratory scientists, clinical pharmacologists and medical laboratory scientists.
The average salary for a clinical scientist in 2023 is $110,339. Click here to see clinical scientist roles available now.
Regulatory Specialist
A regulatory specialist is responsible for making sure a drug or therapy meets the regulatory requirements set by FDA. Responsibilities include interpreting regulations and guidance documents, preparing and submitting regulatory filings, communicating with regulatory bodies and more.
While some regulatory specialists may be required to manage a team, depending on the organization’s requirements, others simply work alongside other teams to ensure regulatory compliance.
The average salary for a regulatory specialist in 2023 is $116,208. Click here to see regulatory specialist roles available now.
Sales Representative
A life science sales representative is responsible for maintaining relationships with healthcare providers, physicians, researchers and others to sell products and services. Responsibilities include conducting market research, developing sales strategies, offering support and product training to customers and more.
The average salary for a sales representative in the life sciences in 2023 is $106,596. Click here to see sales representative roles available now.
Financial Officer
Financial officers are responsible for overseeing financial planning and analysis and creating a budget for a company. They also manage the financial reporting process, which includes preparing financial statements and regulatory filings.
Though a life science financial officer may work with other teams, they typically do not directly manage a team of their own.
The average salary for a life science financial officer in 2023 is $111,900. Click here to see financial officer roles available now.
