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

Paralegal, Contracts

Deerfield, IL ยท On-site

$34.67 - $51.11/hr

Associate's degree or higher with a paralegal certificate OR a High School Diploma/GED and at least ... with research, contract summaries, and preparation of negotiation materials. * Help maintain and ...

Contracting Solutions Manager

Lake Forest, IL ยท On-site

$88K - $117K/yr

Serve as the definitive escalation authority for Contracting Senior Associates and Specialists ... in contract management/negotiation (biopharma, healthcare, or research-sponsorship context ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Research Associate information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$16

$32

$46

How much do contract research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract research associate in Elgin, IL is $32.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.91 and $36.59 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 cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Contract Research Associate jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Contract Research Associate job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,908 per year, or $32.2 per hour.

RESEARCH ADMINISTRATION SPECIALIST I

Moffitt

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Working at Moffitt is both a career and a mission: to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer.As the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center based in Florida, Moffitt employs some of the best and brightest minds from around the world. Join a dedicated team of nearly 11,000 who are shaping the future we envision. Moffitt has been recognized as a Best and Brightest Company to Work For in the Nation and is continually named one of the Tampa Bay Times' Top Workplaces.

Summary

The Research Administration Specialist I is responsible for delivering a range of administrative specialist support services to the Research Division. Key responsibilities include overseeing day-to-day administrative operations, including learning about basic grant level proposals, administrative duties related to department chairs, department leaders, and department program activities within the division. This position is the first level in the Research Administration career path and is vital for ensuring the efficient operation of the division and maintaining a professional work environment.Job Summary The Research Administration Specialist I is responsible for delivering a range of administrative specialist support services. Key responsibilities include overseeing day-to-day administrative operations, including learning about basic grant level proposals, administrative duties related to department chairs, department leaders, and department program activities within the division. This position is the first level in the Research Administration career path and is vital for ensuring the efficient operation of the division and maintaining a professional work environment. Works under moderate supervision. Education & Experience Requirements High School Diploma/GEDwith minimum 5 years ofadministrative support experience in an office setting. OR Associate's Degree with minimum3 years of administrative support experience in an office setting. OR Bachelor's Degree with minimum 1 year of administrative support experience in an office setting. Moderate knowledge and understanding of Symplr Contracts software and basic understanding of contract processes (for use with material transfer agreements (MTAs), non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), vendors and other frequent contract submissions), are required. Experience in a healthcare, research and/or academic setting is preferred.

Salary Range

Salary ranges posted for this position represent the expected base pay range for the role. Actual compensation may vary based on location and a variety of job-related factors, including experience, skills, education, and internal equity among Team Members in similar positions.


We are committed to maintaining fair and equitable pay practices and regularly review compensation to ensure alignment across our workforce.

Moffitt Career Site

If you have the vision, passion, and dedication to contribute to our mission,then we have a place for you!

1. Equal Employment Opportunity

Moffitt Cancer Center is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, or protected veteran or disabled status. We seek candidates whose skills, and personal and professional experience, have prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence.

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