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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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How much do certified research administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 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 2% As Needed, 76% 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.

Senior Research Administrator

University of California San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 622 rated colleges and universities

Job description


This senior level position will work closely with the Research Administration Manager and assist with the development and deployment of team trainings and will actively participate in workgroups and committees. Furthermore, they will bring leadership and expertise to change management projects focused on streamlining internal processes and will review and approve transactions for less experienced staff. This position will act as a Research Administration source matter expert across the Department and will occasionally provide temporary coverage of post-award services when needed. The Research Administrator is a valued member of the team and an important resource to both Principal Investigator, Division Manager, and other departmental personnel in the interpretation of University and sponsor policies and procedures within the financial component of the research area.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Finance or Government Accounting and 5+ years related experience and / or equivalent experience / training
  • Extensive knowledge of program administration guidelines of Federal and non-Federal sponsors supporting research and educational activities, preferably in a university environment
  • Advanced knowledge of effective grant funding processes, procedures and techniques
  • Maintains knowledge of and ability to interpret and apply sponsor, institutional and departmental policies. Knowledge of current compliance regulations in all areas of research administration.
  • Ability to manage high volume and complex transactions
  • Ability to perform highly complex financial analysis and customized reporting
  • Ability to interpret policy for others
  • Demonstrated advanced knowledge of generally accepted accounting, fiscal and reporting principles
  • Demonstrated advanced competence in the use of spreadsheet and database software in financial analysis, fiscal management and financial reports. Excellent computer skills and facility with using MS Excel e.g., (sorting, pivot tables, filtering, basic formulas)
  • Knowledge of general fund accounting, purchasing, and budgeting, financial projection and business planning concepts
  • Ability to maintain independent judgment; strong organization and communication skills; and a customer service focus across broad and diverse subject areas
  • Proven superior analytical, interpersonal, communication (verbal and written), organizational and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or Certified Financial Research Administrator (CFRA)
  • Full knowledge of Federal Acquisition Regulation, Code of Federal Regulations, sponsor-specific policies, intellectual property policy, conflict of interest requirements, publication rights, application of indirect cost rates and other complex concepts in research administration
  • Experience with all types of award mechanisms, including grants, contracts, subcontracts, and cooperative agreements
  • Previous experience working in an academic environment
  • Previous experience with research administration in an international environment

About Us
About UCSF
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences. We bring together the world's leading experts in nearly every area of health. We are home to five Nobel laureates who have advanced the understanding of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, aging and stem cells.
Pride Values
UCSF is a diverse community made of people with many skills and talents. We seek candidates whose work experience or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence - also known as our PRIDE values.
In addition to our PRIDE values, UCSF is committed to equity - both in how we deliver care as well as our workforce. We are committed to building a broadly diverse community, nurturing a culture that is welcoming and supportive, and engaging diverse ideas for the provision of culturally competent education, discovery, and patient care. Additional information about UCSF is available here.
Join us to find a rewarding career contributing to improving healthcare worldwide.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
Salary Information
The final salary and offer components are subject to additional approvals based on UC policy.
Your placement within the salary range is dependent on a number of factors including your work experience and internal equity within this position classification at UCSF. For positions that are represented by a labor union, placement within the salary range will be guided by the rules in the collective bargaining agreement.
To learn more about the benefits of working at UCSF, including total compensation, please visit: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html

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