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Clinical Research Associate Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

... or associate professor level, although appointment and rank will be commensurate with ... and clinical research while developing innovative, high-impact collaborative programs. Research ...

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Clinical Research Associate information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$11

$38

$65

How much do clinical research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical research associate in Rio Rancho, NM is $38.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.12 and $49.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get a CRA job?

Securing a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) position can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a degree in life sciences or healthcare, along with experience in clinical trials. Strong organizational skills, knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and certifications like CCRP can improve job prospects, but entry may still be challenging for those without prior experience or specialized training.

What are Clinical Research Associates?

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, and why are they important?

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.

What is the work of clinical research associate?

A clinical research associate (CRA) monitors clinical trials to ensure they are conducted according to protocols, regulations, and Good Clinical Practice standards. They coordinate with investigators, review trial data, and ensure compliance, often using clinical trial management systems. CRAs typically require knowledge of regulatory requirements and may need certification or training in clinical research.

Is CRA an entry level job?

A Clinical Research Associate (CRA) is typically an entry-level to mid-level position in clinical research, often requiring a bachelor's degree in a related field and some experience or training in clinical trials. Entry-level CRAs may need to complete training on Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and may start as clinical trial assistants or coordinators before advancing to CRA roles.

How do you become a clinical research associate?

To become a clinical research associate (CRA), candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a health-related field such as life sciences, nursing, or pharmacy. Relevant experience in clinical trials, knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and certification from organizations like the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) or Society of Clinical Research Associates (SoCRA) can enhance job prospects. CRAs often undergo on-the-job training and may pursue additional certifications to advance their careers.

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 Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Clinical Research jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What job categories do people searching Clinical Research Associate jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Clinical Research Associate jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Clinical Research Associate jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Clinical Research Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Clinical Research Associate job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,150 per year, or $37.1 per hour.
Physician - Clinical Trials - MD/DO

Physician - Clinical Trials - MD/DO

Headlands Research

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Physician - Clinical Trials - MD/DO

Albuquerque, New Mexico

At Headlands Research, we are dedicated to enhancing clinical trial delivery within our communities. As a leading network of advanced clinical trial sites, we leverage cutting-edge technology and exceptional support services to broaden outreach and participation. Founded in 2018, our rapidly growing company currently operates 20+ sites across the US and Canada, with plans for further expansion.

Join Us in Improving Lives through Clinical Research

At Headlands Research, we're not just building a clinical trial network; we are working to bring clinical trials to underserved communities and new treatments to market. Picture this: an exceptional family of next-generation clinical trial sites, where cutting-edge technology meets unparalleled support services, and participant engagement reaches new heights. Established in 2018, we've rapidly grown to operate 20+ clinical trial sites across the US and Canada, with ambitious plans for expansion on the horizon.

Championing Diversity in Clinical Trials

Diversity isn't just a checkbox for us—it's central to our mission. We're committed to advancing medical science by promoting diversity in every facet of clinical trial research. From our team composition to participant demographics, inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do.

The Role of a Lifetime

Are you ready to make a difference? We're seeking an experienced Principal Investigator or Sub-Investigator to help us grow a new clinical research site in the Albuquerque area. Whether you're a seasoned Family Medicine physician or a specialist in Endocrinology, Neurology, or other area of medicine, your passion for improving patient outcomes is what matters most. If you have previous experience as an Investigator for clinical research trials, we want to talk with you. We're flexible—we're open to part-time or full-time commitments with flexible schedules.

Why Join Us?

  • Flexible Schedule: Work on your terms, with a schedule that fits your life.
  • Unlimited Potential: The sky's the limit. We're open to up to 40 hours per week, allowing you to maximize your impact.
  • Dynamic Team Environment: You'll help Headlands Research build a diverse and talented team of clinical research coordinators, research assistants, physicians, advanced providers, and patient recruitment specialists. With ample support and a culture of collaboration, you'll thrive in an environment where your contributions truly make a difference. A high level of professionalism is a key differentiator at Headlands.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead and oversee clinical trials conducted at Headlands Research sites, ensuring compliance with protocol requirements, regulatory standards, and ethical guidelines.
  • Provide leadership and mentorship to site staff, fostering a culture of inclusivity, diversity, and professionalism within the research team.
  • Participate in investigator meetings and educational initiatives to stay updated on advancements in clinical research and diversity initiatives.
  • Obtain IRB approval for study initiation and any protocol modifications.
  • Oversee subject safety, trial conduct compliance, and the informed consent process.
  • Communicate effectively with stakeholders including sponsors, monitors, regulators, and research network leadership.
  • Provide ongoing training and support to research staff.

Requirements:

  • Previous experience as a Principal Investigator or Sub-Investigator for clinical research trials required.
  • Active and unencumbered license to practice as an MD or DO within the state of New Mexico required.
  • Must be board-certified or board-eligible.
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with sponsors, research teams, and external stakeholders.
  • Familiarity with regulatory requirements, Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines, and industry best practices in clinical research.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

Headlands Research will never ask a candidate for personal identifiable information (date of birth, social security number, driver's license information, etc) via email or messenger tools, or for a financial deposit of any kind.

Headlands Research is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Need Assistance?

Headlands Research is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact recruiting@headlandsresearch.com for further assistance. Please note this is for individuals to request an accommodation as part of the application process and any other correspondence will not receive a response.