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Clinical Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Director, Clinical Science

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$220K - $245K/yr

About the Role >>> Director, Clinical Science As the Director, Clinical Science reporting to the Vice President, Clinical Science, you will play a key role in one of our ongoing clinical studies. You ...

Director, Clinical Science

San Diego, CA · On-site

$86K - $117K/yr

The Director, Clinical Science, will provide management and support for Travere's on-going and future nephrology development and life-cycle activities for clinical programs. The position will work ...

Director, Clinical Science

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$94K - $128K/yr

About the Role >>> Director, Clinical Science As the Director, Clinical Sciencereporting to the Vice President, Clinical Science, you will play a key role in one of our ongoing clinical studies. You ...

Director, Clinical Science

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$84K - $115K/yr

The Director, Clinical Science, will provide management and support for Travere's on-going and future nephrology development and life-cycle activities for clinical programs. The position will work ...

Director, Clinical Science

Livermore, CA · On-site

$209K - $334K/yr

This position will function as director in charge of all required clinical science, new test development, validations, and overall clinical quality of the assigned department(s). This position may be ...

Director, Clinical Science

Livermore, CA · Hybrid

$209K - $334K/yr

This position will function as director in charge of all required clinical science, new test development, validations, and overall clinical quality of the assigned department(s). This position may be ...

Applies clinical science principles and knowledge to guide cross-functional partners and demonstrates critical thinking and creativity in support of projects. This position will have significant ...

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Showing results 1-20

Clinical Science information

See California salary details

$26.9K

$118.8K

$231.6K

How much do clinical science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for clinical science in California is $118,825.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,952.00 and $177,730.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Clinical Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clinical Scientist, you need a solid grounding in biological or biomedical sciences, often supported by an advanced degree such as an MSc or PhD, along with relevant clinical laboratory experience. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), specialized diagnostic equipment, and certifications like HCPC registration (in the UK) are typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting results and collaborating with healthcare teams. These competencies ensure accurate diagnostics, patient safety, and the advancement of medical research and treatments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Clinical Science roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Clinical Science often encounter challenges such as managing complex clinical trial protocols, ensuring regulatory compliance, and coordinating effectively with cross-functional teams. Navigating changing study requirements and tight timelines can also be demanding. To address these challenges, it's important to stay organized, maintain up-to-date knowledge of regulatory guidelines, and foster strong communication with colleagues in clinical operations, data management, and regulatory affairs. Leveraging project management tools and proactively seeking clarification on study objectives can also help Clinical Scientists succeed in their roles.

What is the difference between Clinical Science vs Clinical Research Coordinator?

AspectClinical ScienceClinical Research Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in life sciences, certifications like CCRP or CCRA often preferredBachelor's degree in health sciences or related field, often with certification like CCRP
Work EnvironmentPharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, research institutionsHospitals, clinics, research sites
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industry and academia for drug development and clinical trialsPrimarily in clinical trial sites managing patient data and study logistics

Clinical Science professionals focus on designing, analyzing, and overseeing clinical trials, often working in labs or industry settings. Clinical Research Coordinators manage day-to-day trial operations at research sites, ensuring protocol adherence and patient safety. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in responsibilities and work environments.

What is clinical science?

Clinical science is a field of study that focuses on research and practices related to human health and disease, particularly as they apply to patient care. It involves the investigation of the causes, development, diagnosis, and treatment of illnesses through laboratory research, clinical trials, and patient-focused studies. Professionals in clinical science often work in hospitals, research institutions, or pharmaceutical companies, contributing to advances in medical knowledge and healthcare. The field bridges the gap between laboratory research and clinical practice, ensuring that scientific discoveries lead to improved patient outcomes.
What cities in California are hiring for Clinical Science jobs? Cities in California with the most Clinical Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Clinical Science job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,825 per year, or $57.1 per hour.

Director, Clinical Science

Electra Therapeutics, Inc.

South San Francisco, CA

$96K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY OF POSITION: Electra Therapeutics, based in South San Francisco, California, is a clinical stage biotechnology company developing therapies that target signal regulatory proteins (SIRP) for the treatment of immunological diseases and cancer.

The Director of Clinical Science will report to the Senior Director of Clinical Development and play a critical role in supporting clinical programs, with a strong emphasis on clinical data review, data analysis, and interpretation to ensure the quality, accuracy, and integrity of the studies. The ideal candidate will bring hands-on experience in clinical science with familiarity in data management process to partner effectively with cross-functional teams as well as a background in leading and conducting natural history studies. This role requires someone who is highly detail-oriented and thrives on diving deep into complex datasets, bringing both rigor and curiosity to uncover insights that drive program success.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Provide scientific leadership for clinical programs including study, data interpretation, and reporting.
  • Lead and participate in clinical data review and analysis to support data cleaning, patient safety review, and data integrity throughout the study lifecycle.
  • Partner with clinical development, clinical operations, and data management to ensure high-quality data delivery.
  • Contribute to data interpretation that informs clinical trial results, regulatory submissions, and publications.
  • Support preparation of manuscripts, abstracts, posters, and presentations by assembling data outputs and ensuring scientific accuracy.
  • Provide scientific and clinical input into study design, endpoint selection, and statistical analysis planning.
  • Participate in cross-functional team meetings and act as a clinical science point of contact for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Contribute to the development and review of key study documents (e.g., protocols, CRFs, data review plans, study reports, regulatory submissions).
  • Support data management activities including database design input, eCRF development, and oversight of data flow.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Advanced degree in life sciences (PhD, PharmD, M.S., or equivalent preferred).
  • 7+ years of experience in clinical science and/or epidemiology within the biotech or pharmaceutical industry
  • Demonstrated expertise in data review, analysis, and interpretation.
  • Strong understanding of clinical trial methodology, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and regulatory requirements.
  • Familiarity with data management concepts, tools, and processes (e.g., EDC, eCRF design, query management), specifically in Medidata RAVE.
  • Experience with natural history studies, epidemiology studies, and real-world evidence (RWE), in oncology and/or rare diseases
  • Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with proven ability to collaborate across functions.