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Clinical Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ICON

Senior Clinical Research Associate

Blue Bell, PA · On-site

As a Clinical Research Associate at ICON , you will play a pivotal role in designing and analyzing clinical trials, interpreting complex medical data, and contributing to the advancement of ...

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$12

$41

$69

How much do clinical research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical research associate in the United States is $41.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $52.64 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
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What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Research jobs? The most popular types of Clinical Research jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Clinical Research Associate jobs? The top employers for Clinical Research Associate jobs are:
What states have the most Clinical Research Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Clinical Research Associate jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Clinical Research Associate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Clinical Research Associate jobs are:
Clinical Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Clinical Research Associate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,542 per year, or $41.1 per hour.
Senior Clinical Research Associate

Senior Clinical Research Associate

Icon plc

Portland, OR • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Contract Senior Clinical Research Associate - Home-Based (US)

ICON is a global healthcare intelligence and clinical research organisation united by a mission to bring new medicines and treatments to patients faster.


As a values-driven organisation, integrity, collaboration, agility, and inclusion are at the heart of how we work and interact with each other, customers, patients and suppliers.


We are currently seeking a Contract Senior Clinical Research Associate to join our diverse and dynamic team. This will be for a 6 month contract. As a Senior Clinical Research Associate at ICON, you will play a pivotal role in designing and analyzing clinical trials, interpreting complex medical data, and contributing to the advancement of innovative treatments and therapies.

What you will be doing

  • Conducting site qualification, initiation, monitoring, and close-out visits for clinical trials.
  • Ensuring protocol compliance, data integrity, and patient safety throughout the trial process.
  • Collaborating with investigators and site staff to facilitate smooth study conduct.
  • Performing data review and resolution of queries to maintain high-quality clinical data.
  • Contributing to the preparation and review of study documentation, including protocols and clinical study reports


Your profile

  • Bachelor's degree in a scientific or health-related field or an equivalent combination of education and clinical research experience, particularly in a study coordinator or nursing role
  • Minimum of 3 years independent monitoring
  • In-depth knowledge of clinical trial processes, regulations, and ICH-GCP guidelines.
  • Strong organizational and communication skills, with attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to travel at least 80% of the time (international and domestic - fly and drive) and should possess a valid driver's license

Employment with ICON is contingent upon having the legal right to work in the country where the role is based.


Rewards & Benefits

ICON offers a competitive and comprehensive total rewards package designed to support your health, wellbeing, and career development.


Benefits may include:

  • Competitive base salary and performance related incentives
  • Health and wellbeing programmes including medical, dental, and vision coverage where applicable
  • Retirement and pension plans
  • Life assurance and disability coverage
  • Employee assistance programmes and wellbeing resources
  • Learning and development opportunities through structured training and career pathways

Benefits may vary depending on role and location.


Visit our careers site to read more about the benefits ICON offers.


Inclusion and Accessibility

ICON is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building an inclusive and accessible workplace where everyone feels valued and supported.


If you require reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know or submit a requesthere.

Are you a current ICON Employee? Please click here to apply

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