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Clinical Research Associate Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

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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 24, 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.
Open Rank of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology

Open Rank of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$306K - $339K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 8 days ago


University Of New Mexico rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 560 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Open Rank of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology
Posting Number
req36638
Employment Type
Faculty
Faculty Type
Open Rank
Hiring Department
Surgery Head Neck Reconstructive (523F)
Academic Location
School of Medicine
Benefits Eligible
The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs. See the Benefits home page for more information.
Position Summary
The Division of Otolaryngology/Head & Neck Surgery at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, NM is seeking an otolaryngologist with fellowship training in otology/neurotology to join our faculty. Applicants should BC/BE by the American Board of Otolaryngology, and the position is available at the Assistant, Associate or Full Professor level based on prior experience and training. Salary is commensurate with rank, training and experience.
This is an outstanding opportunity to join the UNM Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery division, with its seventeen-member faculty and twelve-member residency program. The University of New Mexico is the only tertiary care referral center in a large area of the southwestern United States and serves a diverse population.
Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a culturally rich and naturally beautiful metropolitan area. Sitting at the crossroads of New Mexico's major highways (Interstates 40 and 25). New Mexico is the home of two national laboratories, Sandia and Los Alamos, and Kirtland Air Force Base houses the Air Force Research Laboratory and Phillips site, and the Santa Fe Institute also focuses on cutting edge research. Year-round good weather and easy access to the outdoors (the Sandia mountain wilderness is 20 minutes from UNM) make Albuquerque an incredible area for outdoor enthusiasts. New Mexico has a great diversity in landscapes and wildlife, containing six of the seven "Life Zones" on Earth. The Sandia Mountains, for example, contain arid, rocky areas, high alpine meadows (with lots of wildflowers in the spring and summers), and forests of aspen and oak.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Medical doctor who is fellowship-trained in otology/neurotology
  • Medical doctor who is board certified/eligible in Otolaryngology
  • Eligible for licensure in New Mexico
  • Eligible to work in the U.S.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Fellowship-trained in otology/neurotology
  • Board certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology
  • Experience in clinical research
  • Experience in academic education
  • A demonstrated commitment to cultivate an understanding of the rich and varied cultures of New Mexico and to the success of the university's mission to serve local and global communities

Application Instructions
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
Please attach electronic copies of a current CV and letter of interest to the application.
For more information and to submit letters of reference, please contact Misty Carpenter, Clinical Department Administrator at, micarpenter@salud.unm.edu.
For Best Consideration
For best consideration, please apply by 6/30/2026. This position will remain open until filled.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
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