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Clinical Research Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Coord, Research

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$19.76 - $26.85/hr

This individual will be responsible for working with a diverse team of clinical investigators and research staff to coordinate currently active research studies. Primary duties include research study ...

Admin Assistant 2

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

The Administrative Support role for the Center for Memory & Aging provides comprehensive support to ensure the efficient operation of a multidisciplinary clinical, research, and education program ...

Admin Assistant 2

Albuquerque, NM

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

The Administrative Support role for the Center for Memory & Aging provides comprehensive support to ensure the efficient operation of a multidisciplinary clinical, research, and education program ...

Admin Assistant 2

Albuquerque, NM

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

The Administrative Support role for the Center for Memory & Aging provides comprehensive support to ensure the efficient operation of a multidisciplinary clinical, research, and education program ...

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Showing results 1-20

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.
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:
Principal Investigator

Principal Investigator

Velocity Clinical Research, Inc.

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Overview
Velocity Clinical Research is an owned and integrated research site organization, providing excellence in patient care, high quality data and fully integrated research sites. At Velocity, we align our values and behaviors to give our employees the best chance of delivering on our brand promise: to bring innovative medical treatments to patients. We are committed to making clinical trials succeed by generating high quality data from as many patients as possible, as quickly as possible while providing exemplary patient care at every step.
As an employee of Velocity, you are the most integral part of our mission. For talented candidates who perform at a high level, Velocity will invest to support career advancement and reward performance. Whether you are new to clinical research or are an industry veteran, we invite you to apply to Velocity.
Benefits include medical, dental and vision insurance, paid time off and company holidays, 401(k) retirement plan with company-match, and an annual incentive program.
Position Summary:
The Principal Investigator responsibilities are centered around the execution, planning and management of assigned studies. Communicate succinctly with clients, study directors and technicians are key as is a cross-functional, flexible, and collaborative spirit. The Principal Investigator is responsible for the conduct of the clinical trial at a trial site
Responsibilities
Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Provide overall medical direction and medical review of protocols in conformance with the investigational plan and good clinical practice
  • Provide medical expertise and scientific feasibility for new sponsor inquiries
  • Ensure that the safety and well-being of all participants in the study at the trial site are protected
  • Ensure data collected at the study site is credible and accurate
  • Ensure the rights, integrity, and confidentiality of all participants in the trial at the site are protected
  • Assist and provide guidance to clinical operations, research staff, and to sponsor client managers as required
  • Obtain and/or review participants' medical history
  • Perform physical assessments, examinations and study procedures as required by study protocols
  • Evaluate and interpret clinical data and diagnostic information such as X-rays, ECGs and lab work.
  • Immediately report Serious Adverse Events (SAEs)-or any abnormalities affecting participants' safety-to sponsors and to the IRB as required by study specific reporting guidelines
  • Oversee the administration of Investigational Product
  • Review and adhere to study protocol
  • Maintain proper documentation
  • Ensure accuracy, completeness, legibility, and timeliness of data reported and be consistent with source documents
  • Prior to starting a study and while a study is ongoing, ensure that the study, clinical trial protocol, informed consent form, recruitment materials, and other documents provided to the subject are approved by the IRB and comply with GCP (Good Clinical Practices) and other regulatory requirements as required.
  • Ensure that the IRB is provided with a copy of the Investigator's brochure, product monograph, or information about the product or intervention to be studied so the IRB can fully assess the risks involved
  • During the study, ensure the IRB is informed of any changes to the protocol, Investigator's brochure (or other safety information about the product/intervention), protocol deviations, or unanticipated problems
  • Be thoroughly familiar with the appropriate use of the investigational product (study drug) as described in the protocol and Investigator's brochure/product monograph and other documents provided by the sponsor
  • Be aware and comply with ICH GCP (International Conference on Harmonization - Good Clinical Practice) and all applicable regulatory requirements
  • Maintain trial documents as specified by guidelines and applicable regulatory requirements
  • Ensure retention of essential documents until at least two years after the last approval of a marketing application or at least two years since formal discontinuation of the investigational product
  • Participate in monitoring visits and sponsor meetings; allow monitoring and auditing by sponsors and inspection by appropriate regulatory agencies
  • Provide access to research-related records to monitors, auditors, representatives of the IRB, and regulatory authorities
  • Ensure participants are informed and receive appropriate therapy and follow-up if the trial is prematurely terminated or suspended for any reason
  • Inform and provide a detailed written explanation of the termination/suspension of the trial to the IRB and, if the investigator terminates the trial without prior agreement, to the study sponsor
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
Required Skills/Abilities:
  • Understanding of regulatory requirements, principles of GCP and biomedical research ethics.
  • The ability to communicate effectively in a flexible and collaborative manner
  • Critical thinking, dynamic problem-solving skills, and attention to detail
  • Ability to travel for work related purposes (Up to 10% travel, as needed, for project team meetings, client presentations and other professional meetings/conferences as needed.)

Education and Experience:
  • Minimum qualifications include an M.D or D.O with an active medical license (medical license must be valid in the state in which the research is conducted).
  • Training and certification in Good Clinical Practice (GCP)
  • Board certification or board eligibility in a specialty appropriate to the type of research being conducted at the site.
  • Medical licensure (license must be valid in the state in which the research is conducted).
  • Training and certification in Velocity required trainings and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's).

NOTE: The above Job Description is intended to communicate the general function of the mentioned position and by no means should be considered an exhaustive or complete outline of the specific tasks and functions that will be required. Additionally, specific tasks and duties of the position are subject to change as the Company, the department and circumstances change. All employees are expected to perform their duties within their ability as required by the job and/or as requested by management.