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How much do clinical research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical research assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $20.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $23.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Clinical Research Assistants?

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.

Can you be a CRA with no experience?

Becoming a Clinical Research Assistant (CRA) typically requires some knowledge of clinical trials, research protocols, and data management, but entry-level positions may be available to candidates with minimal experience if they demonstrate strong organizational skills and a willingness to learn. Many employers provide on-the-job training or require relevant certifications such as Good Clinical Practice (GCP). Having a background in healthcare, biology, or related fields can also improve chances of starting as a CRA without prior experience.

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

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.

How much does a CRC make?

A Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) typically earns between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the complexity of clinical trials. Salaries can vary based on the employer, location, and certifications such as CCRP or CCRC, with some positions offering additional benefits or bonuses.

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.

Which is better, CRC or CRA?

A Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) manages daily trial activities at research sites, while a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) monitors clinical trials remotely or on-site to ensure compliance and data quality. Both roles are essential in clinical research, with CRCs focusing on site operations and CRA roles emphasizing oversight and regulatory adherence; the choice depends on career interests and preferred work environment.

What do clinical research assistants do?

Clinical research assistants support the conduct of clinical trials by recruiting and screening participants, collecting and managing data, and ensuring compliance with study protocols and regulations. They often work under the supervision of investigators and may use electronic data capture systems, requiring attention to detail and knowledge of Good Clinical Practice guidelines.
More about Clinical Research Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Research jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Clinical Research jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Clinical Research Assistant jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Clinical Research Assistant job openings:
Clinical Research Assistant jobs near you
Clinical Research Mgr

Clinical Research Mgr

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM • On-site, Remote

$4.2K - $5.9K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 20 days ago

University Of New Mexico rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 539 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Clinical Research Mgr
Requisition ID
req36888
Working Title
Clinical Research Mgr
Position Grade
13
Position Summary
The Department ofInternal Medicine Clinical Trials Unit (CTU) at UNM seeks a ClinicalResearch Manager for regulatory compliance. This position will workclosely with the Manager of Clinical Research Operations, Research Nurses,Research Coordinators, CTU Medical Directors and Internal Medicine Principalinvestigators in developing guidelines for clinical research trials, andensuring documentary compliance to federal, local, and Universitypolicies. This position requires a firm understanding ofgood clinical and community practices in conducting research, in accordancewith established study protocols and in accordance with federal, local, andinstitutional policies and guidelines for clinical trials. Additionally,the position requires experience with the process of the application, start up,and maintenance of NIH funded clinical trials and will need stronginterpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to work effectivelywith a variety of university departments, health care providers, fundingagencies, university researchers and collaborating private industries.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Provide technical support, review materials for submission, develop processes and guidelines for research projects.
  • Maintain HuronIRB and Third party Central IRBs, including initial submissions, continuing reviews, all modifications that can include updating study documents, study team list, RNIs, etc. for all studies supported by the CTU.
  • Provide advice and guidance to research investigators and personnel with regards to preparation and submission of new studies including the creation of site level consent forms, local protocols, and other documentation necessary to ensure compliance with human subject protections in biomedical and clinical research.
  • Collaborate with Principal Investigators (PIs) to assist with questions and concerns regarding research which include the creation and review of consent forms, protocols and other compliance items with human subject protections in biomedical and clinical research.
  • Act as a point of contact for up-to-date understanding of Federal, State, and University laws, regulations, and guidelines for research studies.

See the Position Description for additional information.
Conditions of Employment
  • NM Licensure as a Registered Nurse may be required, as appropriate to the individual position
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
  • May be required to submit to annual TB and rubella screening.
  • UNM will provide Hepatitis vaccination, candidate may decline vaccination through declination form or may provide record of vaccination from previous employer.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree; at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Preferred Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Two or more years of experience in coordinating the implementation and execution of study drug study/clinical trials, specifically in the Huron system
  • Track record of contributions to the development and implementation of study protocols, informed consent documents, procedures and techniques
  • Knowledge of federal regulations, guidelines and industry standards for the coordination of human research
  • Excellent communication skills to interact regularly with faculty and clinical staff regarding the individual project(s) and provide reporting as required
  • Ability to complete start up initiatives as required by the individual project(s)
  • Experience drafting and managing IRB submissions
  • Ability to provide technical oversight and instruction to research assistants, clinical research nurses, technicians and other research staff

Additional Requirements
Campus
Health Sciences Center (HSC) - Albuquerque, NM
Department
IM Clinical Trials Unit CTU (852X)
Employment Type
Staff
Staff Type
Term - Full-Time
Term End Date
06/30/2027
Status
Exempt
Pay
Monthly: $4,236.27 - $5,950.53
Benefits Eligible
This is a benefits eligible position. The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs. See the Benefits home page for a more information.
ERB Statement
As a condition of employment, eligible employees working greater than .25 FTE as determined by the New Mexico Education Retirement Act must make mandatory retirement contributions. For more information, review the Benefits Eligibility at a Glance grid.
Background Check Required
Yes
For Best Consideration Date
6/15/2026
Eligible for Remote Work
No
Eligible for Remote Work Statement
Application Instructions
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
A complete submission includes the following:1. Resume2. Cover Letter3. Three supervisory references
Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre-employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html. Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.

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