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Clinical Research Associate Jobs in Spring Valley, CA

Clinical Research Manager

Escondido, CA · On-site

$100K - $105K/yr

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 ...

Clinical Research Manager

Escondido, CA · On-site

$100K - $105K/yr

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 ...

High school diploma or equivalent required; an associate's degree or higher in a health-related field preferred. * Basic knowledge of clinical research strongly preferred. * Medical terminology ...

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Clinical Research Associate information

See Spring Valley, CA salary details

$12

$42

$71

How much do clinical research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical research associate in Spring Valley, CA is $42.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.52 and $53.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 work in the healthcare or pharmaceutical industries, but it can involve irregular hours and travel. Overall, it can be a rewarding career for those interested in medical research and patient safety.

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 in life sciences or healthcare, along with experience in clinical trials. Strong organizational skills, knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and familiarity with trial management tools can improve job prospects, but entry-level roles may be easier to obtain with relevant internships or certifications.
More about Clinical Research Associate jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Research jobs in Spring Valley, CA?

The most popular types of Clinical Research jobs in Spring Valley, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Clinical Research Associate jobs in Spring Valley, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Clinical Research Associate jobs in Spring Valley, CA are:

What cities near Spring Valley, CA are hiring for Clinical Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Spring Valley, CA with the most Clinical Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Clinical Research Associate job openings in Spring Valley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,524 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

The Role

The Clinical Research Manager combines the responsibilities of supporting the coordination of clinical trials along with leading and overseeing the research department.   This role requires strong leadership skills to guide and mentor staff, provide strategic direction, manage resources, and foster a collaborative environment to achieve research objectives.  The Clinical Research Manager ensures that all studies are conducted in compliance with regulatory requirements and protocols, and that data is accurately collected and reported.

Position Type:  Full-time

Location:  Onsite in Escondido, CA

Responsibilities:

  • Clinical Trial Management:
    • Oversee, coordinate, and manage multiple clinical trials from initiation to completion. This may include coordinating trials and/or managing the clinical trials team of CRCs and RAs who coordinate the trials.
    • Ensure compliance with research protocols, regulatory requirements, and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines.
    • Recruit, enroll, and manage study participants throughout the entire study.
    • Obtain informed consent from participants and ensure their understanding of the study, collect data using Good Documentation Practices, , maintain accurate and up-to-date records of study activities.
    • Communicate with study sponsors, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders.
    • Prepare and submit regulatory documents as required.
    • Ensure proper storage and handling of study specimens and investigational products.
  • Leadership and Mentorship:
    • Lead and mentor junior research staff, providing guidance and support until mastery in needed skills is demonstrated.
    • Foster a collaborative and productive work environment that encourages continuous improvement.
    • Lead regular team meetings to discuss status of current projects, plan for future projects, provide updates on new company initiatives, seek feedback regarding team barriers, etc.
    • Manage local team to meet/exceed quality and performance metrics, report key performance indicators to leadership team.
    • Serve as a Culture Champion to support our mission and values, ensure team is compliant with SOPs and all industry standards.
  • Strategic Planning and Growth:
    • Develop and implement strategic plans for clinical research projects, allocate studies to the team based on bandwidth and teammate skillset.
    • Drive the growth and development of the clinical research program by identifying areas for improvement and innovation while staying informed of industry advancements.
    • Proactively identify/anticipate risks (strategically, operational, financial, regulatory, and reputational) that could hinder achievement of business goals.
  • Conflict Resolution:
    • Address and resolve conflicts within the research team and with external stakeholders.
    • Mediate disputes and facilitate effective communication.
    • Implement strategies to prevent and manage conflicts.

 

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in a scientific, health-related, or business administration field. Advanced degree (e.g., Master's, PhD) is preferred.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in clinical research, with at least 2 years in a senior or leadership role.
  • Certification as a Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC) or Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) is preferred.
  • Knowledge of project management principles and methodologies.
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Attention to detail and ability to work independently
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively
  • Strong ethical standards and professionalism.
  • Proven leadership skills and experience in mentoring staff.
  • Ability to inspire and motivate a team.
  • Strategic thinking and planning abilities.
  • Growth mindset and a commitment to continuous improvement.
  • Strong conflict resolution and mediation skills.
  • Ability to manage and resolve disputes effectively.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Familiarity with Electronic Data Capture (EDC) systems and clinical trial management software.