ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Clinical Research Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsClinical Research Assistant JobsClinical Research Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Clinical Research Assistant information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$7

$20

$41

How much do clinical research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 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
Research Assistant II

Research Assistant II

Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute

Albuquerque, NM

$18 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The chosen candidate will be the primary research assistant for an ongoing NIH funded grant focused on understanding attention in children 4-7 years of age. We actively recruit children from the community and the RA will be expected to reach out to community partners or establish new recruitment pathways for the remainder of the study. The RA will help with participant recruitment, scheduling, data collection and data curation. The study uses functional neuroimaging tools including magnetoencephalography and MRI to understand typical and atypical brain development. 


Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Neuroscience, or a related research field and 6 months or more of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities and have been attained.

All candidates should possess strong interest in, and preferably experience with, working with incarcerated populations; and should have completed some basic research methods coursework.

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of individuals. Strong written and verbal communication skills, the ability to work independently and as a part of a team. Must have working knowledge of Microsoft Office, as well as the ability to learn department-specific computer systems as needed.

Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to pass a background check.

The Mind Research Network is division of Lovelace dedicated to advancing the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness and brain injury.


Headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico, MRN consists of an interdisciplinary association of scientists located at universities, national laboratories and research centers around the world and is focused on imaging technology and its emergence as an integral element of neuroscience investigation.

With an extended community of academicians, researchers, graduate students and technicians, the MRN is uniquely positioned with its national infrastructure to link the brightest minds in neuroscience with some of the most cutting-edge neuroimaging capabilities in the world today.


  • Experience working with young children.
  • Interest in the use of functional neuroimaging and analysis of data.
  • Good organizational skills
  • There is no work related to incarcerated populations for this position.

Work is performed in a dry laboratory environment.  Will operate standard office equipment and will frequently stand, walk, sit, perform desk-based computer tasks, use a telephone, perform repetitive motions and occasionally lift objects that weigh up to 20 pounds.  May interact with research participants.
The above is intended to describe the general requirements for the position and should not be interpreted as an exhaustive statement of physical requirements.  The Institute will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires an accommodation to perform the essential functions of the position.


Salary is commensurate with experience + $500 sign-on bonus.

Lovelace Biomedical is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Apply