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Contract Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Initiates and responds to requests for contract research to improve quality, safety, and cost-effectiveness. * Identifies opportunities for improvement and savings, recommends and facilitates action ...

Collaborate with representatives from contract research organizations (CROs) on clinical trial agreements (CTAs) and amendments with clinical trial sites, including development of CTA templates and ...

Contract Manager

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$85K - $114K/yr

Travel : minimal Medpace Overview Medpace is a full-service clinical contract research organization (CRO). We provide Phase I-IV clinical development services to the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and ...

Contracts Manager

Dedham, MA · On-site

$90K/yr

About Us Novotech is a global full-service clinical Contract Research Organization (CRO). At Novotech, ambition meets opportunity. As a globally recognized leader in clinical research and scientific ...

Contract Manager

Cincinnati, OH

$85K - $114K/yr

Travel : minimal Medpace Overview Medpace is a full-service clinical contract research organization (CRO). We provide Phase I-IV clinical development services to the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and ...

Novotech is a global full-service clinical Contract Research Organization (CRO). At Novotech, ambition meets opportunity. As a globally recognized leader in clinical research and scientific advisory ...

Experienced Contract Manager

Irving, TX · On-site

$82K - $110K/yr

Travel : minimal Medpace Overview Medpace is a full-service clinical contract research organization (CRO). We provide Phase I-IV clinical development services to the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and ...

Experienced Contract Manager

Irving, TX

$82K - $110K/yr

Travel : minimal Medpace Overview Medpace is a full-service clinical contract research organization (CRO). We provide Phase I-IV clinical development services to the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Researcher information

See salary details

$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do contract researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, experience in research methodologies, and a relevant academic background such as a degree in science or social sciences. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), literature databases, and ethical compliance certifications is often required. Excellent written communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently or with diverse teams are vital soft skills. These competencies are crucial to delivering high-quality, credible research outcomes that meet client or project objectives.

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

AspectContract ResearcherClinical Research Associate
Required credentialsTypically a degree in life sciences, relevant certificationsDegree in health sciences, certifications like CRA certification
Work environmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizationsMonitoring clinical trials at sites, data review
Employer and industry usagePharmaceutical, biotech, CROsPharmaceutical companies, CROs, hospitals

Both roles involve clinical research but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities. Contract Researchers often focus on specific research projects or experiments, while Clinical Research Associates primarily monitor and manage clinical trial sites. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the clinical research industry.

What are Contract Researchers?

Contract Researchers are professionals hired on a temporary basis to conduct specific research projects for organizations, universities, or companies. They typically work under contracts rather than as permanent staff, focusing on tasks such as data collection, analysis, and reporting. Their work can span a variety of fields, including science, social science, market research, and more. Contract Researchers are valued for their expertise and flexibility, often bringing specialized skills to short-term or project-based assignments.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Researchers and how can they be managed effectively?

Contract Researchers often work on multiple projects for different clients or organizations, which can lead to tight deadlines and shifting priorities. Managing time efficiently and maintaining clear communication with stakeholders is crucial to ensure deliverables meet expectations. Additionally, adapting quickly to new research topics and methodologies is important, as contract work can span various industries or subject areas. Building strong organizational skills and staying proactive about clarifying project scopes can help overcome these challenges.
More about Contract Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Contract Researcher job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Researcher jobs? The most popular types of Researcher jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Researcher jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Researcher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.
Contract Portfolio Manager

Contract Portfolio Manager

CentraCare Health

Saint Cloud, MN • On-site

$71K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


CentraCare rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 156 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

454th of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Embrace the opportunity to become a Contract Portfolio Manager and lead the coordination of medical device contracts for CentraCare Health. Drive strategic sourcing, contract negotiations, and performance monitoring for high-cost, physician-preference items and medical technologies.  Collaborate with stakeholders to evaluate new technologies, optimize product selection, and reduce variation. Grow your career with a leader in healthcare innovation.

Schedule:

  • Full-time 80 hours every 2 weeks
  • Mon-Fri 8a-5p


Pay and Benefits:

  • Starting pay begins at $71,676.80 per year and increases with experience.
  • Salary range:  $71,676.80-$109,699.20 per year
    • Salary range is based on a 1.0 FTE, reduced FTE will result in a prorated offer rate
  • We offer a generous benefits package that includes medical, dental, flexible spending accounts, PTO, 401(k) retirement plan & match, LTD and STD, tuition reimbursement, discounts at local and nationalbusinesses and so much more! 

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree Business management or related field; Master's preferred.
  • A minimum of 10 years of experience in Supply Chain Management may be accepted in lieu of Bachelors degree.
  • 5 years related experience in contracting or value analysis.
  • Data entry aptitude and confidence and interest in computer work are helpful. 

Core Functions:

  • Establish and maintain central database and files of all contracts for assigned contract categories and departments.
  • Monitor all contracts for performance.
  • Regularly review performance with contracted vendors.
  • According to contract expiration date and other pertinent factors, review contracts for performance and renewal potential.
  • Initiates and responds to requests for contract research to improve quality, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
  • Identifies opportunities for improvement and savings, recommends and facilitates action to pursue such opportunities.
  • Interface with clinical and non-clinical stakeholders to determine potential concerns or barriers in review and implementation of contracts and savings opportunities.
  • Prepare progress reports for CentraCare Product Value Analysis Committee (PVAC). Assist in preparation of progress reports for CCH Value Analysis Steering Committee.
  • Collaborate with Contracting and Procurement Department, CCH Value Analysis Clinical Specialist and other appropriate stakeholders to assess product usage patterns, product attributes, coordinate trials, and evaluate trial results.
  • Serve as resource to product-specific subgroups, providing supporting information, samples, or other assistance to facilitate progress to goals.
  • Collaborate with supply chain and other staff at SCH and other CentraCare facilities as necessary to coordinate product conversions.
  • Collaborate with group purchasing organization regarding contracts and other reports as appropriate.
  • Utilize materials management information system (Lawson), e-commerce tools (e.g., Marketplace@Novation), and other automated tools to bring added efficiency and information to supply chain processes.
  • Communicate with vendors as needed to obtain samples, product and pricing information, and problem resolution assistance.
  • Provide direction and guidance to buyers for areas of contracting responsibility.
  • Seek and maintain knowledge of current supply chain concepts and practices.
  • Participate in annual establishment of performance improvement targets.
  • Assist in determining progress measures.
  • Regularly monitor and report progress toward targets to supply chain and stakeholder departments.


CentraCare has made a commitment to diversity in its workforce. All individuals including, but not limited to, individuals with disabilities, are encouraged to apply. CentraCare is an EEO/AA employer. 
 


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About CentraCare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CentraCare has grown to meet the needs of the communities and is now one of the largest health systems in Minnesota. This means we are able to offer the latest advancements in care, technology and treatments close to home. But what makes CentraCare special is not our facilities or technology. It is our people. We live in the communities we serve. We are neighbors, friends and family. And when you need us, we are here for you.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

St. Cloud, MN, US

Year founded

1886