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Clinical Research Associate Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Certification as a Research Professional by Society of Clinical Research Associates (SoCRA) or Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP). Work habits include organization, coordination of ...

New

Position Summary The primary responsibility of the Clinical Research Associate I (CRA I) is support of the research team in the conduct of department research projects. Responsibilities include but ...

Study Start Up Associate

Arden Hills, MN · On-site +1

$35.25 - $48/hr

Study Start Up Associate - Arden Hills, MN ICON is a global healthcare intelligence and clinical research organisation united by a mission to bring new medicines and treatments to patients faster. As ...

Study Start Up Associate II

Arden Hills, MN · On-site +1

$35.25 - $48/hr

Study Start Up Associate - Arden Hills, MN ICON is a global healthcare intelligence and clinical research organisation united by a mission to bring new medicines and treatments to patients faster. As ...

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Clinical Research Associate information

See Minnesota salary details

$11

$40

$68

How much do clinical research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical research associate in Minnesota is $40.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.27 and $51.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get a clinical research associate job?

Securing a clinical research associate (CRA) position can be competitive, often requiring a relevant degree such as a life sciences or healthcare-related field, along with experience in clinical trials. Strong organizational skills, knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and familiarity with clinical trial management systems can improve job prospects, but entry may be challenging for those without relevant qualifications or experience.

What is a clinical research associate?

Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) are professionals responsible for monitoring and overseeing clinical trials to ensure they are conducted in accordance with regulatory guidelines, protocols, and ethical standards. They play a key role in ensuring the safety of trial participants and the integrity of collected data. CRAs often visit clinical trial sites to verify data accuracy, maintain study documentation, and provide training to site staff. Their work ensures that new drugs, treatments, or medical devices are tested rigorously before they reach the market.

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

To thrive as a Clinical Research Associate, you need a solid background in life sciences, attention to detail, and experience with clinical trial protocols, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with electronic data capture (EDC) systems, Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines, and sometimes certifications like ACRP or SOCRA is typically required. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills help build effective relationships with research sites and ensure compliance. These skills are vital for maintaining the integrity of clinical trials, ensuring regulatory adherence, and advancing medical research efficiently.

What is the difference between Clinical Research Associate vs Clinical Trial Coordinator?

AspectClinical Research AssociateClinical Trial Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree, often with clinical research certificationsBachelor's degree, often with clinical research or healthcare certifications
Work EnvironmentMonitors clinical sites, reviews data, ensures complianceCoordinates trial activities, manages schedules, and communicates with sites
Employer & IndustryPharmaceutical companies, CROs, biotech firmsHospitals, research institutions, CROs

Both roles are essential in clinical trials, with CRAs focusing on site monitoring and compliance, while Clinical Trial Coordinators handle day-to-day trial management. They often collaborate but have distinct responsibilities within the clinical research process.

Is being a clinical research associate worth it?

A clinical research associate (CRA) monitors clinical trials to ensure compliance with protocols and regulations, often requiring strong organizational and communication skills. The role offers opportunities for career growth, competitive salaries, and the chance to contribute to medical advancements, but it can involve irregular hours and travel. Overall, it can be a rewarding career for those interested in healthcare and research.

What are some common challenges clinical research associates face when monitoring clinical trial sites?

Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) often encounter challenges such as ensuring protocol compliance across multiple sites, managing tight project timelines, and maintaining accurate documentation. Additionally, CRAs must effectively communicate with site staff to resolve issues and ensure data integrity, all while adhering to regulatory guidelines. Balancing frequent travel, adapting to different site environments, and handling unexpected issues such as patient recruitment delays are also typical aspects of the role.
More about Clinical Research Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Research jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Clinical Research jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Clinical Research Associate jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Clinical Research Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Clinical Research Associate job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,781 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Clinical Research Associate

Medasource

Maple Grove, MN • On-site

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Job Title: Site ICRA I

Location: Maple Grove, MN

Duration: 8-month contract (likelihood of extension)

Position Summary:

Participates in the planning and execution of Abbott clinical studies at the assigned study sites.

Supports timely site activation, compliance to study protocol, domestic and international Good Clinical

Practices, applicable regulatory standards, and Abbott Standard Operating Procedures during study

activation, execution and close out phase in close cooperation with the assigned Site Management

team. Uses existing procedures to solve routine or standard problems. Supports collection of essential

regulatory documents, obtaining missing data and data corrections, and review of protocol deviations

in cooperation with Data Review.

Essential Functions:

• Supports regulatory and clinical protocol compliance for all clinical projects at the assigned

sites.

• In partnership with the assigned Abbott field staff and in-house personnel, coordinates the start-

up, maintenance and close out of the assigned clinical study sites.

• May review informed consent documents to ensure all required elements are included.

• Reviews and analyzes study data, regulatory documents for accuracy and completeness,

supports data queries resolution.

• Supports the follow-up and resolution of findings from monitoring visits and audits on the

assigned study sites.

• Serves as a liaison to clinical study management, site management personnel and site personnel

by responding to protocol-related issues and escalating as appropriate.

• Acts as a primary contact for the assigned study sites.

• Communicates and collaborates with all levels of employees, customers, contractors, and

vendors.

• Applies general clinical research processes and regulatory knowledge to process improvement

activities.

• Supports training of external clinical professionals to ensure compliance with established

protocols.

• Performs review of site compliance under supervision and escalates issues to site operations

management and/or study management.

• Updates and maintains internal clinical trial information and document management systems

including trial master file management.

• Collect and maintain regional and study site-specific communication to facilitate activation and

execution of clinical studies at the assigned study sites.

• May contribute to global or regional process improvements.

Other Duties:

• Have a good understanding of current clinical regulations and common industry practices,

engages in relevant professional associations or societies, and seeks continuing education about

Abbott devices and therapies.

• May make additional contributions as assigned

Qualifications:

• Required: Bachelor’s degree preferably with an academic focus in natural science, pre-

medicine, nursing, bioengineering with a minimum of two years of experience, or an equivalent

combination of education and experience

• Must have strong written and verbal communication, interpersonal, presentation, analytical,

organizational skills, and the ability to interpret basic clinical data, to meet deadlines as well as

the ability to communicate effectively with all levels of employees.

• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

• Able to work independently, seeking guidance when necessary.

• Capable of exchanging information, ask questions, and check for understanding.

Desired:

A general familiarity with clinical trials research processes. Previous related experience in research

within a clinical or corporate setting or relevant clinical experience in a clinical/hospital environment.

Certification as a Research Professional by Society of Clinical Research Associates (SoCRA) or

Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP).

Work habits include organization, coordination of many tasks, accuracy, and attention to detail.