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Contract Research Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Senior Clinical Research Associate

Chicago, IL

$110K - $138K/yr

Senior Clinical Research Associate - Oncology - Midwest ICON is a global healthcare intelligence ... and contracts negotiations. * Reviews and verifies accuracy of clinical trial data collected ...

ICON

Senior Clinical Research Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$110K - $138K/yr

Senior Clinical Research Associate - Oncology - Midwest ICON is a global healthcare intelligence ... and contracts negotiations. * Reviews and verifies accuracy of clinical trial data collected ...

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All JobsContract Research Associate JobsContract Research Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Contract Research Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$16

$33

$48

How much do contract research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract research associate in Chicago, IL is $33.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.97 and $38.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Contract Research jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Contract Research jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Contract Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Contract Research Associate job openings:

Contract Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Research Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,726 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Temporary Research Assistant- Data Collection

Metro Infectious Disease Consultants

Burr Ridge, IL

$20/hr

Temporary

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Under the supervision of the Director of Research, the Research Assistant provides non-clinical support through data collection for various research projects. The Research assistant will analyze and evaluate clinical data gathered during research while ensuring compliance with protocols and overall clinical objectives. Responsibilities assigned to individuals can and will change at any time at the discretion of management or the supervisor.

This is a TEMPORARY role with a contract length of 90-days.

Schedule: M-F (8:30am-5pm)

Specific Duties:

1)       Enter data proficiently and accurately into a data capture system for sponsors and contract research organizations to monitor.

2)       Provide ready access to all experimental data for the Faculty Researcher and/or supervisor.

3)       Assist Clinical Research Associates that are monitoring each study (on and off-site).

4)       Invoice for payments associated with the clinical trial budget.

5)       Attend project meetings and communicate with fellow staff through email and phone calls.

6)       Responsibilities assigned to individuals can and will change at any time at the discretion of management or the supervisor.

Requirements

Must have a high school diploma. Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution in social sciences or health-related discipline is preferred. Experience in the medical field is preferred but not required. Proficiency in Microsoft products and various electronic medical records systems is preferred.

Benefits

  • $20/hour

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