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Contract Clinical Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

This will be for a 6 month contract. As a Clinical Research Associate at ICON , you will play a pivotal role in designing and analyzing clinical trials, interpreting complex medical data, and ...

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Contract Clinical Research Associate information

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$12

$41

$69

How much do contract clinical research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract 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.

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

To thrive as a Contract Clinical Research Associate, you need a solid understanding of clinical trial protocols, regulatory guidelines (such as GCP and ICH), and typically a degree in life sciences or related field. Familiarity with electronic data capture (EDC) systems, clinical trial management systems (CTMS), and certifications like ACRP or SOCRA are highly valued. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help build productive site relationships and ensure compliance. These skills are crucial for maintaining data integrity, ensuring regulatory adherence, and supporting successful clinical trial outcomes.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by Contract Clinical Research Associates compared to permanent employees?

Contract Clinical Research Associates often need to quickly adapt to new study protocols, sponsor requirements, and team dynamics since they may work on multiple projects for different organizations. This can mean a faster onboarding process and the need to build rapport with new colleagues and site staff efficiently. Additionally, contract CRAs must be highly organized to manage shifting assignments and maintain compliance across different trial sites, as well as keep up with varying documentation standards. While this variety can be rewarding, it can also present challenges in terms of consistency and long-term project ownership.

What are Contract Clinical Research Associates?

Contract Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) are professionals who monitor clinical trials on behalf of pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations (CROs), or other sponsors, but work on a contract or freelance basis rather than as permanent employees. Their primary responsibilities include ensuring that trials are conducted according to regulatory guidelines, monitoring data accuracy, and verifying that patient rights and safety are protected. Contract CRAs may work on multiple projects for different clients and often enjoy more flexibility in their schedules and work locations. This role requires strong organizational skills, knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and the ability to travel to clinical sites.

What is the difference between Contract Clinical Research Associate vs Clinical Research Associate?

AspectContract Clinical Research AssociateClinical Research Associate
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in life sciences and relevant certificationsSame as Contract CRA, often with additional experience
Work EnvironmentTemporary, project-based assignments often with multiple sponsorsFull-time employment with a single organization or sponsor
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by CROs and pharma companies for short-term projectsCommonly employed directly by pharmaceutical companies or CROs
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for flexibility and contract work benefitsViewed as a permanent role with career growth

In summary, Contract Clinical Research Associates work on temporary, project-specific basis, often with multiple sponsors, offering flexibility. Clinical Research Associates typically hold full-time roles within a single organization, providing stability and career development opportunities.

More about Contract Clinical Research Associate jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Clinical Research Associate jobs? Cities with the most Contract Clinical Research Associate job openings:
What states have the most Contract Clinical Research Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Clinical Research Associate jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Clinical Research Associate job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,542 per year, or $41.1 per hour.

Contractor

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Clinical Research Associate/Monitor
6 months contract to perm
Work location: REMOTE
Required 30%-50% traveling
Candidate home location: required within DC, VA, MD only (a candidate needs to reside in DC, VA, MD)
Multiple Regional CRAs: 5 openings
USC/GC required
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Multiple Studies with Health patients - Previous Phase I experience required
Contract CRAs, regional based with strong monitoring skills, minimum 3-5+ years monitoring experience within the pharmaceutical industry required traveling of minimum of 50% traveling to 1-2 sites within the same state as required. Require 100% commitment and contractors paid hourly. Therapeutic areas can range and candidates will be expected on working on about 6-8 protocols (max at 10 protocols) with different indications. Multiple sites and candidate has to be local to DC, VA, and MD areas.
Minimum 3-5+ years of CRA / Monitoring experience required
Start date is ASAP
TRAVEL INFORMATION FOR CANDIDATES -
The client is working to ensure candidates are as close as possible to their sites. Company is constantly adding new studies to the monitoring project. Monitors may be asked to take on additional sites closer to their home (or maybe a bit further then what they currently have) - they will work to keep travel as regionally located as possible. There are multiple sites in each region (depends on the allocation of the individual CRAs)
In addition they should be very clear about their monitoring experience showing that they are a Regional CRA/monitor currently. (I would say 3 years monitoring experience with Oncology study required) Candidates need to allocate 50% to 100% of their time to this assignment, preferred candidates home is close to the site locations (listed above).The CRA/Study Monitor designated activities include site visits, trial monitoring, tracking, documentation, collection, solicitation and review of (e) CRFs and submit data, preparation of reports, regulatory review and participation in teleconferences. Approximately 50% travel will be required, as the CRA Study Monitor's primary responsibilities will be monitoring of study sites.
Requirements
A strong healthcare background with at least 1-2 years prior monitoring Oncology study experience is required. Phase I research experience as a monitor, auditor, research coordinator, research associate or similar oncology research experience is required. The CRA/Study Monitor must hold a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or University or be a grad from an accredited school of nursing.
Requirement:
  • 2+ years prior monitoring Oncology study experience is required. preferred. Phase I-IV research experience as a monitor, clinical research associate experience is required.
  • BS/BA in life sciences or health-related discipline, BSN, Bachelor of Science - Nursing, Pharmacy is highly desirable.
  • Minimum 3-5+ years clinical research monitoring experience including years in Phase I studies.
  • Strong working knowledge of GCPs, ICH Guidelines, and FDA Regulations
  • Ability and willingness to travel up to 50 % of the time, including minimum overnight stays travel as necessary
  • Experience with regulatory document review/collection and IRB submissions (including OHRP regulations), a plus
  • Experience with using a Trial Master File, a plus.