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Contract Clinical Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Piper Companies

Clinical Research Associate

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$120K - $135K/yr

Piper Companies is actively seeking Clinical Research Associates to join a toptier CRO with a proven track record of excellence, trusted by global pharma and biotech partners. This position is fully ...

ClinChoice

ClinChoice is a rapidly growing global contract research organization. We're currently expanding our CRA network in the Netherlands and looking for talented Clinical Research Associates (CRA II and ...

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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:
What job categories do people searching Contract Clinical Research Associate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Clinical Research Associate jobs are:
Contract Clinical Research Associate jobs near you
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.

Clinical Research Associate

ICON Clinical Research

Houston, TX

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Clinical Research Associate - TX - Adverum

ICON plc is a world-leading healthcare intelligence and clinical research organization. We're proud to foster an inclusive environment driving innovation and excellence, and we welcome you to join us on our mission to shape the future of clinical development.

As a CRA at ICON, you will design and analyse clinical trials, interpreting complex medical data, and contribute to the advancement of innovative treatments and therapies.

What You Will Do:

You will contribute to clinical trial monitoring activities, taking responsibility for your deliverables and working collaboratively.

Key responsibilities include:

  • 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:

You will bring relevant clinical trial monitoring experience, along with the following qualifications and skills.

Required qualifications and experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in a scientific or healthcare-related field.

  • Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Clinical Research Associate.

  • 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.

  • Ophthalmology experience is required

  • Willingness to travel as required (approximately 60%)

What ICON can offer you:

Our success depends on the quality of our people. That's why we've made it a priority to build a diverse culture that rewards high performance and nurtures talent.

In addition to your competitive salary, ICON offers a range of additional benefits. Our benefits are designed to be competitive within each country and are focused on well-being and work life balance opportunities for you and your family.

Our benefits examples include:

  • Various annual leave entitlements

  • A range of health insurance offerings to suit you and your family's needs.

  • Competitive retirement planning offerings to maximize savings and plan with confidence for the years ahead.

  • Global Employee Assistance Programme, LifeWorks, offering 24-hour access to a global network of over 80,000 independent specialized professionals who are there to support you and your family's well-being.

  • Life assurance

  • Flexible country-specific optional benefits, including childcare vouchers, bike purchase schemes, discounted gym memberships, subsidized travel passes, health assessments, among others.

Visit our careers site (https://careers.iconplc.com/benefits) to read more about the benefits ICON offers.

At ICON, inclusion & belonging are fundamental to our culture and values. We're dedicated to providing an inclusive and accessible environment for all candidates. ICON is committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please let us know or submit a request here (https://careers.iconplc.com/reasonable-accommodations)

Interested in the role, but unsure if you meet all of the requirements? We would encourage you to apply regardless - there's every chance you're exactly what we're looking for here at ICON whether it is for this or other roles.

Are you a current ICON Employee? Please click here (https://wd3.myworkday.com/icon/d/task/1422$1235.htmld) to apply

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