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Clinical Associate Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

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Clinical Associate information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$11

$29

$52

How much do clinical associate jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical associate in Rio Rancho, NM is $29.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $39.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Clinical Associate?

A clinical associate works with medical facilities to optimize policies and operating procedures to better serve the health needs of patients. As a clinical associate, your job duties include observing a medical facility to identify areas for improvement, revising clinical documentation, recommending changes to comply with federal and state laws, and collaborating with subject matter experts when necessary. The qualifications for a career as a clinical associate typically include a bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field and experience in the healthcare industry. Some employers also require a license and training as a registered nurse or another medical professional for senior-level positions. Additional qualifications include strong analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Clinical Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clinical Associate, you need a solid background in healthcare, patient care techniques, and basic medical knowledge, usually supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems, clinical documentation tools, and sometimes specific certifications like Basic Life Support (BLS) are typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a team are important soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring accurate patient care, efficient clinical operations, and effective collaboration within healthcare teams.

What are some common challenges Clinical Associates face when balancing administrative tasks with patient care responsibilities?

Clinical Associates often juggle a mix of direct patient care and administrative duties such as updating medical records, coordinating appointments, and communicating with other healthcare professionals. One common challenge is efficiently managing time to ensure that patient needs are met without delaying essential documentation or follow-ups. To address this, many Clinical Associates utilize digital health record systems and work closely with nurses or administrative staff to streamline workflows. Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks are essential for success in this role.

What are Clinical Associates?

Clinical Associates are healthcare professionals who provide medical care and support under the supervision of doctors and other senior clinicians. They are trained to assess, diagnose, and manage a variety of health conditions in settings such as hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. Clinical Associates often play a crucial role in extending healthcare services, especially in areas with shortages of doctors. Their responsibilities can include conducting patient consultations, performing basic medical procedures, and assisting with patient management. The exact scope of practice may vary depending on the country and healthcare system.

What is the difference between Clinical Associate vs Medical Assistant?

AspectClinical AssociateMedical Assistant
Required CredentialsPost-secondary education, certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent, certification optional
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, outpatient facilitiesDoctor's offices, clinics, outpatient settings
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, hospitals, clinicsMedical practices, outpatient clinics
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, job dutiesEntry-level healthcare support, job responsibilities

Clinical Associates typically have more advanced training and work in diverse healthcare settings, often performing clinical procedures and patient assessments. Medical Assistants usually support physicians with administrative and basic clinical tasks. Both roles are vital in healthcare but differ in education requirements and scope of practice.

What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Clinical jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What are popular job titles related to Clinical Associate jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Clinical Associate jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
RN, Clinical Supervisor - Acute Orthopedics

RN, Clinical Supervisor - Acute Orthopedics

CHRISTUS Health

Pena Blanca, NM

Per diem

Posted 21 days ago


CHRISTUS Health rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 511 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

525th of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Description
Summary:
The Clinical Supervisor, in collaboration with and under the direction of the Nursing Department Director/Manager, is accountable for ongoing shift leadership and operations of a clinical department and for nursing care safety and quality. The Clinical Supervisor uses sound human resource and budget principles to guide the daily provision of nursing services to patients and families. The Clinical Supervisor supports comprehensive patient and family services through effective participation with the interdisciplinary team. The Clinical Supervisor is responsible for supervising nursing department associates and providing patient care when needed. Coaches and guides employees under his/her supervision. Demonstrates Professionalism and Excellence by performing as role model for clinical and service excellence.
Responsibilities:
  • Demonstrates current, comprehensive, professional knowledge and skills in conformance with recognized nursing standards including the Patient Bill of Rights and Joint Commission/CMS regulations, Standards for Nursing Care for the Patient Care Unit and the New Mexico Nurse Practice Act.
  • Conducts patient experience rounds to determine satisfaction with services and performs service recovery real-time. Assists manager/director in investigation of patient or physician complaints.
  • Champions change by identifying obstacles and requesting resources for effective improvement.
  • Prepares patient assignments based on patient need and associate competency level. Assigns unit tasks, meal/break time and ensures completion.
  • Assists Patient Flow Supervisor in monitoring and improving patient flow metrics, including collaborating to determine appropriate placement based on patient needs.
  • Promotes cohesive work teams and constructive conflict resolution, actively supporting intra- and inter-disciplinary teamwork, within the department.
  • Monitors, coaches and reinforces associate's compliance with policy and procedures.
  • Applies and holds associates accountable for infection control policies and processes.
  • Monitors and coaches staff in hourly rounding and use of patient communication boards.
  • Serves as clinical resource for associates related to complex clinical situations and invasive devices relevant to unit patient population.
  • Monitors fall risk and skin at risk programs to ensure appropriate interventions are implemented to meet prevention strategies.
  • Monitors pain management regimes with nursing staff and facilitates physician communication when not meeting patient pain goals.
  • Facilitates associate participation in unit based multi-disciplinary rounds.
  • Demonstrates awareness and implementation of National Patient Safety Goals as applicable in their area of practice. Monitors and coaches associates for compliance with NPSG.
  • Reassesses the effectiveness of comfort measures (including PRN medications given) within 1 hour of intervention. Monitors associate compliance with this standard.
  • Coaches and mentors associates to make cost effective decisions and use resources prudently achieving both productivity and competence expectations.
  • Adheres to guidelines for IV therapy/Blood Administration. Monitors and coaches staff compliance.
  • Adheres to medication administration guidelines and safe medication practices. Monitors and coaches staff to ensure for compliance with medication administration and safe medication practices.
  • Utilizes AIDET to make a positive first impression. Monitors and coaches associates to achieve AIDET process.
  • Demonstrates and takes responsibility for workplace safety. Exhibits knowledge regarding the hazard and injury reporting procedures.
  • Accurately interprets monitored rhythms and intervenes according to hospital policies and standards.
  • Assists with special procedures as applicable to patient population.
  • Assists in data collection, assessment and documentation appropriate to nature and severity of the need of the patient population.
  • Communicates appropriate data to the physician and other patient care team members.
  • Ensures timely and accurate implementation of physician orders.
  • Performs emergency equipment checks at start of shift.
  • Primary responder to unit emergent events including Code Blue Alert and Rapid Response Team. (Critical Care responds to RRT throughout the organization).
  • Code Blue Alert Management - Prepares patients for emergency treatment with thorough knowledge of emergency practices. Coordinates emergency measures to sustain life.
  • Performs end of shift controlled substance count and ensures resolution of all Pyxis discrepancies prior to shift end.
  • Provides appropriate hand-off communication with patient transitions of care.
  • Assists manager/director in development of unit associate time schedule.
  • Assists staffing office in determining real time staffing needs based on census, patient needs and skill set of associates.
  • Assists with new associate selection and unit education-participating in staff interviews, setting clear staff performance expectations, encouraging staff development, and completing timely performance evaluations-including staff input in each process.
  • Initiates first level counseling as appropriate. Assists manager/director in corrective action/discipline process as indicated.
  • Performs patient care duties when appropriate.
Requirements:
Education:
  • Graduate of an accredited school of Nursing. BSN preferred. National specialty certification preferred.
Experience:
  • 3 years relevant experience preferred but not required.
  • Must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care/service appropriate to the age of the patients served on the assigned unit/department.
Certifications, Registrations, or Licenses:
  • Current RN license in the State of New Mexico.
  • Current BLS Certification.
  • Current ACLS Certification or obtain within 6 months.
  • Current PALS/NRP if applicable to area.
  • Current TNCC if applicable to area or obtain within 6 months.
  • Current CPI or equivalent must be obtained within six months for Behavioral Health and Emergency Department.
  • BLS, ACLS and PALS must be issued through American Heart Association.
Work Schedule:
MULTIPLE SHIFTS AVAILABLE
Work Type:
Full Time

What CHRISTUS Health employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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About CHRISTUS Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CHRISTUS Health is a prominent name in the healthcare industry, with its headquarters situated in Irving, TX, USA. Established in 1999, the company has since been devoted to providing comprehensive care and extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. This not-for-profit health system primarily operates more than 600 healthcare services and programs, including long-term care facilities, health insurance products, community clinics, and outreach services, serving both urban and rural populations.

Industry

Outpatient health care

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1999