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Contract Research Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Certified Group

Research Associate

Turlock, CA · On-site

In addition, the Research Associate supports the work of other contract research laboratory personnel. The Research Associate also has elevated responsibility with regard to performing laboratory ...

Certified Group

Research Associate

Turlock, CA

Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp ... In addition, the Research Associate supports the work of other contract research laboratory ...

Certified Group

Research Associate

Turlock, CA · On-site

Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp ... In addition, the Research Associate supports the work of other contract research laboratory ...

The Steely Group

Sr. Research Associate

Novato, CA · On-site

$45 - $51/hr

The Bioanalytical Development group seeks a highly motivated Senior Research Associate II to ... Support technology transfer of assays to internal groups and contract research organizations (CROs)

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$46

How much do contract research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract research associate in California is $32.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.87 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Contract Research Associate, you need a solid background in life sciences or a related field, attention to detail, and experience with clinical research processes. Familiarity with regulatory systems like FDA guidelines, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), data management tools, and electronic data capture (EDC) systems is typically required. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work independently or in teams help set candidates apart. These competencies ensure that clinical trials are conducted accurately, compliantly, and efficiently, supporting successful research outcomes.

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

AspectContract Research AssociateClinical Research Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree, often in life sciences; certifications like CCRP beneficialBachelor's degree in health sciences or related field; certifications like CCRP or CCRC advantageous
Work EnvironmentTypically in pharmaceutical or biotech companies, contract research organizations (CROs)Usually in hospitals, clinics, or research sites
Employer & IndustryPharmaceutical companies, CROs, biotech firmsHospitals, academic medical centers, research institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles support clinical trials, a Contract Research Associate primarily works for pharmaceutical or biotech companies managing trial processes remotely or at sites, often on a contractual basis. A Clinical Research Coordinator typically works directly at research sites, coordinating patient visits and data collection. Both roles require similar credentials and certifications, but their work environments and employer types differ.

What are some typical challenges faced by contract research associates when managing multiple studies simultaneously?

Contract Research Associates often juggle several clinical trials at once, which can pose challenges in time management and prioritization. Balancing the requirements of different sponsors, adhering to varying protocols, and ensuring accurate documentation for each study demand strong organizational skills. Additionally, staying up to date with regulatory changes and effective communication with site staff are crucial to avoid delays and ensure compliance. Developing efficient workflows and leveraging project management tools can help address these challenges.

What is a contract research associate?

A Contract Research Associate (CRA) is a professional who is typically hired on a contractual basis to support and manage clinical trials or research projects. Their primary responsibilities include monitoring research sites, ensuring compliance with protocols and regulations, collecting and verifying data, and maintaining proper documentation. CRAs play a critical role in ensuring the integrity and safety of clinical studies, often working for pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations (CROs), or academic institutions. The contract nature of the role means that assignments are usually project-based and may vary in duration and scope.
What are the most commonly searched types of Contract Research jobs in California? The most popular types of Contract Research jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Research Associate jobs in California? For Contract Research Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Research Associate jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Research Associate jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Contract Research Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Contract Research Associate job openings:
Contract Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Research Associate job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,799 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Research Associate

Certified Group

Turlock, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The Research Associate 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. In addition, the Research Associate supports the work of other contract research laboratory personnel. The Research Associate also has elevated responsibility with regard to performing laboratory work that requires a higher level of technical expertise, including being a resource for operation of specialized instrumentation and for performing methods that are technically challenging. 

 ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Conducts all testing procedures in accordance with standard operating procedure and quality guidelines.
  • Accurately generates and transcribes pertinent data.
  • Interacts well with and serves as a training and troubleshooting resource to other department members.
  • Manages time and resources of their work and assists others in maximizing overall operational efficiency.
  • Can be relied upon to accurately execute scheduled tasks and assignments independently.
  • Proactively seeks ways to improve processes and better utilize departmental resources.
  • Acts as a resource for operation of specialized instrumentation and for obtaining thorough training on such instrumentation from the manufacturer.
  • 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.
  • Learn new techniques and technologies as needed to complete project assignments.
  • 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


MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • B.S., preferably in Biology/Microbiology, and appropriate industry specific experience.
  • 2-5 years relevant laboratory experience or food production/testing environment experience.
  • Good conceptual basis in microbiology with proven ability to perform basic and advanced microbiology and molecular techniques.
  • Competence with effectively delivering and receiving oral or written communication.
  • Familiarity with FDA BAM, USDA MLG, CMMEF, APHA, and AOAC methodology.
  • Basic computer skills required.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office Suite applications, proficient with MS Excel.
  • LIMS experience preferable.
  • Manual dexterity.
  • Ability to distinguish colors, preferred.
  • Ability to stand for prolonged periods

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse and to handle other communications/computer components
  • Potential exposure to odors, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and microbiological pathogens
  • Noise level varies from quiet to loud
  • Temperature varies from hot to cold
  • Color vision and depth perception
  • Interactive and fast-paced team oriented tasks
  • Overnight Travel may be required at the discretion of management
  • Regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm

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