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Contract Research Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Research Associate Kelly ® Science & Clinical is seeking a Research Associate for a contract position at a cutting-edge client in Pasadena, CA . If you're passionate about bringing the latest ...

Research Associate

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$35 - $48/hr

Research Associate Kelly ® Science & Clinical is seeking a Research Associate for a contract position at a cutting-edge client in Pasadena, CA . If you're passionate about bringing the latest ...

Research Associate Kelly ® Science & Clinical is seeking a Research Associate for a contract position at a cutting-edge client in Pasadena, CA . If you're passionate about bringing the latest ...

Research Associate Kelly ® Science & Clinical is seeking a Research Associate for a contract-to-hire position at a cutting-edge client in Thousand Oaks. If you're passionate about bringing the ...

Research Associate Kelly ® Science & Clinical is seeking a Research Associate for a contract-to-hire position at a cutting-edge client in Thousand Oaks. If you're passionate about bringing the ...

Pharmcology Associate

San Diego, CA

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

We are seeking a highly motivated contract Research Associate with strong interpersonal communication skills to conduct in vivo studies in mice at our In Vivo oncology Pharmacology group in a large ...

Research Associate

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Research Associate Kelly ® Science & Clinical is seeking a Research Associate for a 9-month contract position at a biotech company in Pleasanton, CA . If you're passionate about bringing the latest ...

Research Associate

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Research Associate Kelly ® Science & Clinical is seeking a Research Associate for a 6-month contract position at a biotech company in Pleasanton, CA . If you're passionate about bringing the latest ...

... Research Associate to join an innovative biotechnology company developing next-generation ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of San Diego, CA. Pay and Benefits The ...

Clinical Research Associate

Irvine, CA · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

The Clinical Research Associate (CRA) will support Clinical Operations in planning, coordinating ... Track and manage trial documentation, including but not limited to site contracts, investigator ...

Clinical Research Associate

Irvine, CA · Remote

$120K - $135K/yr

The Clinical Research Associate (CRA) will support Clinical Operations in planning, coordinating ... Track and manage trial documentation, including but not limited to site contracts, investigator ...

Showing results 41-60

Contract Research Associate information

See California salary details

$16

$32

$46

How much do contract research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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 cities in California are hiring for Contract Research Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Contract Research Associate job openings:
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

Integrated Resources INC

Foster City, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Description

Job Description:

  • The Pathology Biomarkers group requests consideration to hire a contractor who would have experience in immunohistochemistry and tissue processing.
  • This person would have formalized training and work experience in a laboratory setting.
  • We wish to have a flexible individual to cover a number of tasks not limited to routine histology techniques such as preparation and sectioning of Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded tissues and to develop and/or execute slide based assays such as immunohistochemistry.
  • The desired candidate would additionally display proficient in sample and data management skills, and familiarity with statistical programs (e.g. GraphPad Prism, JMP).
  • The candidate must also be able to work independently and communicate with third party contract research laboratories and be confidant in liaising directly with scientists from multiple disciplines.
Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.


Integrated Resources logo

About Integrated Resources

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Integrated Resources Inc (IRI), based in Edison, NJ, US, is an esteemed player in the staffing solutions industry with a credible presence on their official website irionline.com. Notably, IRI provides a range of professional staffing services including contract, contract-to-hire, and direct hire solutions to a wide spectrum of industries such as healthcare, life sciences, manufacturing, financial, insurance, and others. Since its inception, IRI has been committed to delivering top-talent and optimum solutions to meet its clients' diverse needs.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Edison, NJ, US

Year founded

1996