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Clinical Research Assistant Jobs in Park Ridge, IL

Clinical Research Assistant

Lemont, IL · On-site

$21 - $23.50/hr

Position Summary We are now hiring for a Clinical Research Assistant that will support a high-volume Resarch Department within an ophthalmic practice that focuses on providing quality and ...

Clinical Research Coordinator

Lisle, IL

$24 - $31.75/hr

Conduct chart reviews and extract relevant clinical information to support research data collection. * Assist with patient recruitment activities in clinical and research settings. * Utilize ...

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Clinical Research Assistant information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$8

$22

$45

How much do clinical research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical research assistant in Park Ridge, IL is $22.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $25.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical research assistant?

Clinical Research Assistants are professionals who support clinical research studies by performing a range of administrative and research-related tasks. They help collect and manage data, assist with patient recruitment, prepare study materials, and ensure compliance with research protocols and regulations. Their work is crucial in advancing medical knowledge and ensuring that clinical trials run smoothly and ethically. Clinical Research Assistants often work under the supervision of principal investigators or clinical research coordinators in hospitals, universities, or pharmaceutical companies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical research assistant?

To thrive as a Clinical Research Assistant, you need a bachelor’s degree in a life science or health-related field, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills. Familiarity with clinical trial management systems (CTMS), electronic data capture (EDC) tools, and good clinical practice (GCP) certification are typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you excel in coordinating with research teams and participants. These skills ensure accurate data collection, regulatory compliance, and the smooth execution of clinical studies.

What does a clinical research assistant do?

A clinical research assistant—or clinical research associate (CRA)—helps lead researchers during clinical trials for new drugs and medical devices. As a clinical research assistant, your responsibilities include preparing the laboratory, processing volunteers, taking biological samples or vital signs, and organizing data. You may also be required to set up and clean work areas. Your job is to assist the researchers in any way possible, helping them conduct sound, ethical, and scientifically accurate research.

What are some common challenges clinical research assistants face when coordinating multiple studies simultaneously?

Clinical Research Assistants often manage several studies at once, which can lead to challenges in balancing competing deadlines, maintaining accurate documentation, and ensuring compliance with complex protocols. Effective time management and organizational skills are crucial to handle overlapping tasks such as scheduling patient visits, collecting data, and preparing regulatory submissions. Collaborating closely with principal investigators, coordinators, and other team members helps distribute the workload and maintain research quality. Developing strong communication habits and utilizing digital tracking tools can further streamline workflow and reduce errors.

What is the difference between Clinical Research Assistant vs Clinical Research Coordinator?

AspectClinical Research AssistantClinical Research Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in health sciences or related field; certifications like CCRP are a plusRequires a bachelor's degree; certifications such as CCRP or CCRC are common
Work EnvironmentAssists in data collection, patient scheduling, and administrative tasks in clinical trial settingsManages study protocols, patient recruitment, and regulatory compliance in clinical trial sites
Employer & IndustryHospitals, research institutions, pharmaceutical companiesHospitals, research centers, pharmaceutical companies

Both roles support clinical research but differ in responsibilities. Clinical Research Assistants focus on data collection and administrative tasks, while Clinical Research Coordinators oversee study management and patient interactions. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Can you be a clinical research assistant with no experience?

Clinical research assistants often start with little or no experience, as entry-level positions may provide on-the-job training. Relevant skills such as attention to detail, organizational ability, and familiarity with medical or research environments can help candidates qualify, but some employers may prefer candidates with related coursework or certifications. Gaining experience through internships or volunteering can also improve prospects for entry-level applicants.
What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Research jobs in Park Ridge, IL? The most popular types of Clinical Research jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Clinical Research Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL? For Clinical Research Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Clinical Research Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Clinical Research Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:
What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for Clinical Research Assistant jobs? Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most Clinical Research Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Clinical Research Assistant job openings in Park Ridge, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,485 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

$21 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Company Overview

University Retina is a full-service practice that specializes in helping patients heal eyesight-robbing diseases of the retina, vitreous, and macula. Led by a team of board-certified ophthalmologists and retina specialists, the practice has locations in Oak Forest, Bedford Park, Lemont, Lombard, and Lincolnwood, Illinois.

With a dedication to education, technology, charity, and compassionate care, the University Retina team strives to provide patients with the highest level of retinal care in the world. The physicians diagnose and treat retinal-related conditions, including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment repair, and other disorders of the retina, vitreous, and macula.

All University Retina offices are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and each patient's treatment plan includes the most current and effective therapies or services available.

Position Summary

We are now hiring for a Clinical Research Assistant that will support a high-volume Resarch Department within an ophthalmic practice that focuses on providing quality and compassionate care to each patient needed complete eye care services. 

Pay Range - $21.00-$23.50/hr.  Commensurate with experience

Responsibilities

A CRA is responsible for performing procedures and coordinating the execution of clinical trials in accordance with research protocols.

Recruit and screen subjects to participate in trials

Coordinate patient visits and perform procedures related to research

Collect accurate data obtained from research visits

Monitor research participants to ensure adherence to study protocol

Adhere to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines including regulatory and ethical standards

Maintain relationships with site staff, study subjects, and sponsor delegates

Perform other related duties as assigned by the Clinical Research Coordinator

Maintain compliance with all research Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Qualifications

Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:

2+ years in healthcare, preferably ophthalmology, but not necessarily in clinical research

Analytical mindset

Attention to detail

Exceptional interpersonal skills

Superior verbal and written communication skills

Understanding of laboratory procedures and equipment

Proficiency in MS Office - Word, Excel and Outlook

High school diploma or equivalent GED

Company Benefits

We offer a competitive benefits package to our employees:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401k w/ Match
  • HSA/FSA
  • Telemedicine
  • Generous PTO Package

We also offer the following benefits for FREE:

  • Employee Discounts and Perks
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Group Life/AD&D
  • Short Term Disability Insurance
  • Long Term Disability Insurance

EyeSouth Partners is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

For more information related to our benefits offered, please follow the link to our benefits page:  https://www.eyesouthpartners.com/careers/employee-benefits/  (If the link does not work for you, please copy and paste it into your browser).

Employment Type: FULL_TIME