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Contract Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Certified Group

Research Assistant I

Aurora, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp ... The Research Assistant conducts testing procedures for project-based studies, such as shelf-life ...

Certified Group

Research Assistant I

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp ... The Research Assistant conducts testing procedures for project-based studies, such as shelf-life ...

Certified Group

Research Assistant I

Aurora, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp ... The Research Assistant conducts testing procedures for project-based studies, such as shelf-life ...

Hatalom

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Secret (Tier 3) This position is contingent upon contract award. Hatalom Corporation is seeking a Research Assistant to support Marine Corps University (MCU) and Education Command (EDCOM). This ...

Columbia University

Research Assistant

New York, NY · On-site

$22.85 - $27.58/hr

Position Summary The UEIL is seeking a grant fund (yearly) Research Assistant (RA)/Technician to ... and service contracts; Monitor chemical waste accumulation and schedule waste pickups. (15 ...

Certified Group

Research Assistant I

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp ... The Research Assistant conducts testing procedures for project-based studies, such as shelf-life ...

HIT Strategies

2026 Research Pipeline

Washington, DC · Remote

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 ...

The University of Chicago

Research Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

... research assistant to gain experience for future careers in the biomedical area. This at-will ... contract. Employment will be contingent upon the continued receipt of these grant funds and ...

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Contract Research Assistant information

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How much do contract research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract research assistant in the United States is $21.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.48 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.
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Contract Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,571 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Research Assistant I

Certified Group

Aurora, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Certified Group is committed to partnering with customers to deliver innovative scientific solutions and expertise - So The World Can Trust In What It Consumes™. Our network of 30+ North American and European laboratories serves the food & beverage, dietary supplements, cosmetics, OTC, tobacco/nicotine, cannabis, and hemp industries.
Our Brands
Certified Group is comprised of a set of specialized brands that collectively deliver laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services across highly regulated industries:
  • Certified Laboratories - Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily supporting food, beverage, cosmetics, OTC, and dietary supplement industries.
  • Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food industry.
  • Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp, and next-generation products, with deep expertise in analytical chemistry and toxicology.
  • EAS Consulting Group - A regulatory consulting firm offering expert guidance, training, and auditing support across FDA, USDA, and other regulated sectors, powered by a large network of independent advisors.
  • FSNS Certification & Audit - Provides accredited third-party auditing and certification services, including food safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs.

Job Summary: The Research Assistant conducts testing procedures for project-based studies, such as shelf-life studies, inoculated challenge studies, process validation studies, etc., as described in client proposal agreements.
Essential Function:
  • Conducts all testing procedures in accordance with standard operating procedure and quality guidelines.
  • Accurately generates and transcribes pertinent data.
  • Interacts well with other department members to successfully accomplish department objectives.
  • Manages time and resources to maximize operational efficiency.
  • Can be relied upon to accurately execute scheduled tasks and assignments.

Position Objectives:
  • Execute all pertinent scheduled preparation and testing procedures as described in project proposals.
  • Maintain meticulous records of procedures performed related to contract research studies.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in all testing procedures as assigned, including recording and maintaining accurate and timely results based on the analyses performed.
  • Complete training assignments as directed.
  • Learn new techniques and technologies as appropriate.
  • Identify and communicate anomalous results and/or incongruent data sets with Department Manager/Supervisor.
  • Perform appropriate quality control tasks pertinent to the department including proper documentation and record keeping, in compliance with accreditation bodies.
  • Perform maintenance of laboratory equipment and instruments, including inspection, calibration, cleaning & sanitization, as directed.
  • Participate in special projects as assigned by the Department Manager/Supervisor.
  • Provide support or assistance within the department as directed, and work effectively with other departments.
  • Maintain a clean and sanitized laboratory work environment.

Position Requirements:
  • BS., preferably in Biology/Microbiology and appropriate industry specific experience.
  • 0-2 years relevant laboratory experience or food production/testing environment experience.
  • Competence with effectively delivering and receiving oral or written communication.
  • Basic computer skills required.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office Suite applications.
  • LIMS experience preferable.
  • Manual dexterity.
  • Ability to distinguish colors, preferred.
  • Ability to stand for prolonged periods.
  • Ability to lift 25 lbs.

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The compensation details provided below reflect the expected pay range for this role, based on the selected compensation structure and applicable guidelines. Actual pay within this range may vary depending on factors such as experience, skills, qualifications, and geographic location. Additional components of total rewards-such as bonuses, benefits, or incentives-may also apply where applicable.
Salary Range for Pay Transparency
$20-$20 USD
By applying, you acknowledge that Certified Group will process your personal information for recruitment and hiring purposes in accordance with our Applicant Privacy Policy. California residents may review additional information about how we collect and use personal information, including retention and rights, in our California Notice at Collection. To view our Privacy Policy, click the link here: Certified Group Privacy Policy
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law.

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