As of July 01, 2026, the average salary for a Human Factors Research Manager in the United States is $151,317 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $73.
However, a Human Factors Research Manager's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Human Factors Research Manager's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Human Factors Research Manager's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Human Factors Researcher II | 2-4 years | $99,448 |
| Human Factors Researcher III | 4-7 years | $111,845 |
| Human Factors Researcher IV | 7+ years | $134,655 |
| Human Factors Researcher V | 7-10 years | $158,928 |
| Human Factors Research Manager | 10+ years | $151,317 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Human Factors Research Managers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Human Factors Research Manager salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $169,247. While startup companies pay approximate $143,132.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $143,132 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $151,385 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $163,440 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $169,247 |
For Human Factors Research Manager roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 60% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Internet and Hospitality & Leisure sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 30% above the average. In contrast, Human Factors Research Manager positions in Media or Insurance typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Human Factors Research Manager as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internet | $196,712 | $95.0 | 30% |
| Hospitality & Leisure | $189,146 | $91.0 | 25% |
| Construction | $181,580 | $87.0 | 20% |
| Energy & Utilities | $174,015 | $84.0 | 15% |
| Pharmaceuticals | $169,475 | $81.0 | 12% |
Understanding how a Human Factors Research Manager's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on July 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Human Factors Research Manager, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Human Factors Research Senior Manager | $179,600 | 19% |
| Research and Development Senior Manager | $177,722 | 17% |
Salaries for a Human Factors Research Manager can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $149,616 in 2023 to around $147,937 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Human Factors Research Manager salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $149,616 |
| 2024 | $150,286 |
| 2025 | $147,937 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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A Human Factors Research Manager's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Human Factors Research Manager earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Human Factors Research Manager is $190,856.
The highest pay for Human Factors Research Manager is $174,863.
The lowest pay for Human Factors Research Manager is $130,054.
Leads research operations to support the development of user-centered product designs using human factors principles, standards, and methodologies. Collaborates with engineers, designers, and cross-functional stakeholders to translate objectives into actionable research and study plans. Oversees the quality of quantitative and qualitative data, troubleshoots usability testing and user interview operational issues, and ensures compliance with ethical and regulatory requirements. Communicates research progress, insights, and recommendations to senior leadership. Typically requires a master's degree in human factors, usability engineering, cognitive psychology. Typically reports to a director. Manages subordinate staff in the day-to-day performance of their jobs. True first level manager. Ensures that project/department milestones/goals are met and adhering to approved budgets. Has full authority for personnel actions. Typically requires 5 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. 1-3 years supervisory experience may be required. Extensive knowledge of the function and department processes.
The Internet industry offers the highest average compensation for Human Factors Research Manager roles, with salaries approximately 30% above the market median.
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