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Certified Research Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Director, Research Projects

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$90 - $140/hr

MD * project management certification * public health certification * clinical research certification * grant writing certification * certified research administrator * certified project manager ...

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$17.5K

$82.2K

$154.5K

How much do certified research administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for certified research administrator in the United States is $82,164.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,500.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a certified research administrator?

A Certified Research Administrator (CRA) is a professional who has demonstrated knowledge and expertise in research administration, typically by passing a comprehensive exam offered by the Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC). CRAs manage and oversee the financial, regulatory, and compliance aspects of research projects, ensuring they adhere to institutional and federal guidelines. This credential is recognized in the field as a mark of professionalism and competence. Earning CRA certification can lead to career advancement opportunities and increased credibility within research administration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a certified research administrator?

To thrive as a Certified Research Administrator, you need in-depth knowledge of research administration principles, grant management, and regulatory compliance, typically validated by a CRA certification and relevant experience. Proficiency with grant management software, federal submission systems like Grants.gov, and financial reporting tools is essential. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing complex projects and collaborating with diverse stakeholders. These competencies are vital to ensure compliance, secure funding, and support successful research initiatives within organizations.

What are some common challenges certified research administrators face when managing multiple grants simultaneously?

Certified Research Administrators often juggle several grants at once, each with unique compliance and reporting requirements. Staying organized is key, as missing deadlines or misinterpreting sponsor guidelines can impact funding. Effective communication with principal investigators, finance teams, and sponsors is essential to ensure smooth project execution. Utilizing grant management software and setting up regular check-ins can help mitigate these challenges. Proactively addressing issues and maintaining detailed documentation will also support successful grant administration.

What is the difference between Certified Research Administrator vs Research Coordinator?

AspectCertified Research AdministratorResearch Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires CRA certification, relevant degrees, and experience in research administrationOften requires a bachelor's degree; certification is optional
Work EnvironmentWorks in research institutions, universities, or hospitals managing compliance and grantsAssists in daily research activities, data collection, and project support
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, government agencies, universitiesResearch projects, clinical trials, academic settings

The Certified Research Administrator focuses on managing research compliance, grants, and administrative tasks, often holding a certification. In contrast, a Research Coordinator primarily supports research projects through data collection and coordination. Both roles are vital in research settings but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

How do you become a certified research administrator?

To become a certified research administrator, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field, relevant work experience in research administration, and must pass the Certified Research Administrator (CRA) exam offered by the Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC). Maintaining certification requires ongoing professional development and renewal every few years. Skills in grant management, compliance, and budgeting are also important for success in this role.
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Certified Research Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Certified Research Administrator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,164 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

Research Administrator Associate

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY • On-site, Remote

$48K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago

University Of Kentucky rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

313th of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Job Title Research Administrator Associate Requisition Number RE55374 Working Title Department Name 40130:Sponsored Projects Administration Work Location Lexington, KY Grade Level 45 Salary Range $48,214-79,560/year Type of Position Staff Position Time Status Full-Time Required Education
MA
Click here for more information about equivalencies: https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies Required Related Experience
3 yrs
Required License/Registration/Certification
None
Physical Requirements
Sitting and typing at a computer workstation for extended periods of time.
Shift
Fully remote position
Monday - Friday; 8:00 am EST - 5:00 pm EST
Job Summary
Shape the Future of Research Administration at the University of Kentucky
Wildcat Wisdom, Kentucky Innovation - Supporting Discoveries, Transforming Outcomes!
Why Join Us?
The University of Kentucky's Office of Sponsored Projects Administration (OSPA) is seeking a dedicated and skilled Research Administrator Associate. This vital role supports and enables groundbreaking research across the University.

About the Role:
This position is eligible for remote work.

The Research Administrator Associate will manage industry and federal clinical trial agreements and other contracts. The responsibilities include contract review and negotiation, collaboration with clinical trial study teams to ensure appropriate terms and allowable budgets, sponsored project account establishment, interpretation and implementation of University policies and procedures, sponsor regulations and State/Federal law, and tracking of cash received. This position will also provide responsive and appropriate administrative guidance to faculty, staff, and sponsor agencies.

A successful candidate will have the ability to understand, interpret, and research complex and varied regulations, think critically and work collegially in order to successfully resolve questions and issues for faculty, staff, and colleagues, communicate timely and professionally to a range of individuals, have the ability to multitask and prioritize, have a strong attention to detail, and have a willingness to be a lifelong learner.

Why Research Professionals Choose University of Kentucky
  • Top 10% of Academic Medical Centers Nationwide: Recognized as a leader in research excellence and innovation.
  • Forbes' Best Large Employers: Ranked among the Top 100 Employers Nationwide in 2024 and named one of Kentucky's Best Employers on Forbes' America's Best-In-State Employers list.
  • 1 of 34 Universities Nationwide: Holds the prestigious trifecta of research designations in cancer, aging, and translational science.
  • Flexible Remote Work Options: Enjoy the convenience of fully remote or hybrid roles while supporting groundbreaking research.
  • Professional Development Opportunities: Engage in interdisciplinary collaborations, virtual conferences, and training programs to advance your career.

Want to learn more about the Department?
OSPA is responsible for administering over $480 million in extramural grants and contracts awarded through the University of Kentucky Research Foundation. Services are available to all University faculty and staff and include: advice and assistance with budget preparation and other administrative requirements of proposals; proposal submission; review, negotiation and acceptance of awards; interpretation and information regarding sponsor policies and regulations; preparation of subcontract documents; administration of UK's Conflict of Interest Policy. More information about the department can be found at: https://research.uky.edu/sponsored-project-services/about/OSPA.

Interested in what UK Benefits have to offer?
The University of Kentucky is proud to offer a benefits package that helps us recruit and retain the very best faculty and staff. In addition to your take-home pay, your benefits package is a major component of your total compensation at UK. These benefits include our 200 percent match on eligible retirement contributions; competitive health, dental, and vision coverage; tuition benefits for classes at UK, and much more. To learn more about these benefits, please visit: https://hr.uky.edu/employment/our-benefits.

Ready to Make a Difference in Research Administration?
Are you ready to take the next step in advancing research and innovation? Join us in UK's Office of Sponsored Projects Administration as the next dedicated Research Administrator Associate and play a pivotal role in supporting groundbreaking projects that shape the future.

The University of Kentucky uses equivalencies in determining if a potential applicant meets the minimum education and experience. Related experience can be substituted for education. Click here for more information about equivalencies: https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies.

Driving Research Excellence - Apply Today!
Multiple Positions Available
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No Preferred Education/Experience
Certified Research Administrator preferred.
Deadline to Apply 08/16/2026 Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

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About University of Kentucky

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The University of Kentucky (UK), the state's flagship university, was founded in 1865 and its beautiful, sprawling campus, nestled in downtown Lexington, now covers over 900 acres and is home to more than 30,000 students and approximately 13,500 employees. The trees and beautifully manicured greenspaces are a source of pride for the university and combine to create an impressive oasis amidst the busy cityscape that surrounds it.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Lexington, KY, US

Year founded

1865

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