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Contract Research Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Positions include Executive Research Assistant, Analyst, Senior Analyst, Research Manager and 1099 Contract Researcher. We conduct informational interviews on a rolling basis. Research candidates who ...

Positions include Executive Research Assistant, Analyst, Senior Analyst, Research Manager and 1099 Contract Researcher. We conduct informational interviews on a rolling basis. Research candidates who ...

Positions include Executive Research Assistant, Analyst, Senior Analyst, Research Manager and 1099 Contract Researcher. We conduct informational interviews on a rolling basis. Research candidates who ...

Clinical Research Nurse Coordinator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$68K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Baltimore, MD About Pharmaron Pharmaron is a global CRO (Contract Research Organization) helping ... Identify and report adverse events and protocol deviations in a timely manner; assist in developing ...

Clinical Research Nurse Coordinator

Baltimore, MD

$68K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Baltimore, MD About Pharmaron Pharmaron is a global CRO (Contract Research Organization) helping ... Identify and report adverse events and protocol deviations in a timely manner; assist in developing ...

Clinical Research Nurse Coordinator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$100K - $113K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Baltimore, MD About Pharmaron Pharmaron is a global CRO (Contract Research Organization) helping ... Identify and report adverse events and protocol deviations in a timely manner; assist in developing ...

... Research Assistant join our team Arlington, Virginia.      You will enjoy this role if ... Research & financial analysis of target companies, contracts, and opportunities * Communication ...

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Contract Research Assistant information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$8

$22

$32

How much do contract research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract research assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $22.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.13 and $26.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract research assistant?

Contract Research Assistants are professionals hired on a temporary or project-specific basis to support research activities in academic, scientific, or business environments. Their responsibilities typically include data collection, analysis, literature reviews, and assisting with experiments or studies as directed by senior researchers. Unlike permanent staff, their employment is limited to the duration of a specific project or contract. This allows organizations to bring in specialized skills for short-term needs while providing flexibility for both the employer and the assistant.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract research assistant?

To thrive as a Contract Research Assistant, you generally need a background in a relevant academic field, strong analytical abilities, and experience with data collection and analysis. Familiarity with research management tools, statistical software like SPSS or R, and adherence to ethical research standards are typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help individuals excel when supporting research projects and collaborating with teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate, reliable research outcomes and maintaining the integrity of the research process.

What are common challenges faced by contract research assistants, and how can they effectively manage multiple projects simultaneously?

Contract Research Assistants often juggle several projects with differing deadlines, methodologies, and stakeholder expectations. Balancing these demands requires strong organizational skills, effective communication, and adaptability to shifting priorities. Utilizing project management tools, setting clear timelines with supervisors, and regularly updating all involved parties can help ensure tasks are completed efficiently. Proactively seeking clarification when project scopes change and maintaining detailed records also aid in managing workload and expectations.

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

AspectContract Research AssistantResearch Associate
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a relevant fieldUsually requires a master's degree or higher in a related discipline
Work EnvironmentTemporary or project-based roles in labs or research settingsFull-time, ongoing research positions in academic or industry labs
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, biotech, pharmaceutical companiesUniversities, research institutes, industry R&D departments
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Contract Research Assistant and a Research Associate lies in their employment type, experience level, and job stability. Contract Research Assistants typically work on temporary projects with a bachelor's degree, while Research Associates often hold advanced degrees and have more permanent roles in research settings.

How much does a contract research assistant get paid?

The average salary for a contract research assistant typically ranges from $15 to $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the research. Some positions may offer additional benefits or stipends, especially in academic or clinical settings.

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Contract Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Contract Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Research Assistant job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,110 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

2026 Research Pipeline

HIT Strategies

Washington, DC • Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

This posting is for early consideration for future research openings at HIT Strategies. Positions include Executive Research Assistant, Analyst, Senior Analyst, Research Manager and 1099 Contract Researcher. We conduct informational interviews on a rolling basis.
Research candidates who are already in pipeline consideration do not need to re-apply. 

About HIT Strategies 

HIT Strategies is an insights firm that decodes the political and consumer landscape where traditional firms fail. Our diverse team of researchers specialize in reaching the underestimated voters and consumers who are reshaping American culture, media, and markets – communities often misunderstood or overlooked by conventional research. Our brand promise is to deliver culturally competent research and actionable insights with precision, clarity, and impact. 

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the heart of our mission. As the leading millennial and minority-owned insights research firm, our team reflects the country's incredible diversity. Therefore, we especially encourage applications from people of color, LGBTQ individuals, people with disabilities, and groups underrepresented in political research.    

2026 Research Pipeline 
HIT Strategies seeks researchers paving the way in understanding, communicating with and engaging diverse audiences. Our researchers conduct public opinion research within a designated portfolio and/or focused on key demographic audiences. Whether a Research Assistant, Analyst, or Research Manager, all of our researchers think critically and deliver accurate & visually compelling data that meet client objectives.  
 
Key Role Objectives 

  • Drive accurate, high-quality, culturally competent analysis of behaviors, attitudes, values, and other drivers within research populations  
  • Engage clients in providing specialized guidance and consultation that allows clients to achieve their objectives and goals 
  • Drive research design, data collection, analysis, and consulting 

 
Preferred Research Audiences 

  • AAPI 
  • Black / African-American
  • Hispanic / Latino 
  • LGBTQ+  
  • Women 
  • Youth 

Consider applying if you: 

  • Managed client timelines and project objectives and goals, helping define the scope of work with guiding questions 
  • Drafted and monitored public opinion surveys including developing polls and screeners and monitoring survey response data 
  • Created moderator guides, conducted focus groups, reviewed focus group notes and developed analytical proof points 
  • Created analytical reports and visually compelling presentations incorporating statistical facts, key data trends, and critical insights demonstrating cultural competence 
  • Managed vendors and complex client-facing interactions for timely product delivery 

Qualifications 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Marketing, Mass Communications, Economics, Statistics, Humanities, or a related concentration  
  • 2-5 years of previous research work experience in a related field as demonstrated by a research assessment 
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, especially succinct and concise reporting 
  • Excellent analytical, problem solving, and decision-making skills 
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office – especially Excel and PowerPoint