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Clinical Research Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

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Clinical Research Assistant information

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How much do clinical research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical research assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $23.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $26.88 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 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 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 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 assistant positions often require some knowledge of medical terminology and data management, but many entry-level roles are available for candidates without prior experience. Employers may provide on-the-job training and look for strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow protocols. Certifications such as Good Clinical Practice (GCP) can enhance prospects for those new to the field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Research jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

The most popular types of Clinical Research jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Clinical Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Clinical Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Clinical Research Assistant job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,930 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

The International Spine, Pain & Performance Center is currently seeking a Clinical Research Assistant in Washington, DC & Arlington, VA!

 

Interested in sharpening your clinical skills, while being at the forefront of cutting-edge research at an interventional orthopedic practice?


International Spine, Pain, and Performance Center is in search of a motivated professional, interested in leading and participating in innovative medical research. The Clinical Research Assistant(CRA), as delegated by the Chief Operating Officer, executes, and coordinates daily clinical research activities according to the company’s SOPs, GCP and FDA/ICH guidelines.

In this role, you will ensure IRB-approved protocols are implemented and followed; lead budget negotiations and annual research budget synthesis; execute the informed consent process and monitor patient status and safety; collect and organize research data; schedule and conduct study specific training and site in-services to educate staff on new or amended protocols; and educate patients and their families about treatments and possible side effects CRAs typically perform tasks such as:

  • Site preparation
  • Obtaining informed consent
  • Patient screening and recruitment
  • Patient enrollment
  • Conducting study visits
  • Maintaining and dispensing study product and supplies
  • Completing and ensuring the quality of case report forms
  • Maintaining source documents
  • Ensuring site quality
  • Responding to inquiries in a timely manner

Qualifications

  • A Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred) AND 6+ months of recent experience in clinical research OR an equivalent combination of education and experience is required;
  • Must be proficient with Microsoft office applications (Outlook, Word and Excel) as well as internet based applications;
  • Must have excellent written and verbal communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills;
  • Must be professional, possess a high degree of self-motivation and have a strong work ethic;
  • Must be capable of recognizing, and have the willingness, to resolve errors and issues;
  • Must have the ability to adapt and take-on additional tasks as requested;
  • Must be detail oriented, organized, self-motivated and be able to work independently and on a team;
  • Must be capable of recognizing, and have the willingness, to resolve errors and issues;
  • Must possess a high degree of integrity and abide by HIPPA laws including maintaining patient confidentiality.