2

Entry Level Cra Pharmaceutical Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Cra Pharmaceutical information

What is the difference between Entry Level Cra Pharmaceutical vs Entry Level Clinical Research Associate Pharmaceutical?

AspectEntry Level Cra PharmaceuticalEntry Level Clinical Research Associate Pharmaceutical
Required CredentialsBachelor's in life sciences, clinical research certification (optional)Bachelor's in life sciences, clinical research certification (preferred)
Work EnvironmentClinical sites, hospitals, research centersMonitoring sites, sponsor offices, CROs
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical companies, CROsPharmaceutical companies, CROs, biotech firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both roles involve supporting clinical trials in the pharmaceutical industry, requiring similar educational backgrounds and certifications. The main difference lies in the job title's emphasis: "Cra" often refers to a broader role in clinical research, while "Clinical Research Associate" specifies the monitoring and site management responsibilities. Both positions are entry-level and serve as stepping stones into the clinical research field within the pharmaceutical industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level CRA (Clinical Research Associate) in the pharmaceutical industry, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level CRA in the pharmaceutical industry, you need a bachelor's degree in life sciences or a related field, strong knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and attention to detail. Familiarity with electronic data capture (EDC) systems, clinical trial management systems (CTMS), and sometimes GCP certification is valuable. Excellent organizational skills, communication, and the ability to work independently are important soft skills for coordinating studies and engaging with site staff. These qualifications ensure regulatory compliance, accurate data collection, and effective collaboration, all critical to the success of clinical trials.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) in the pharmaceutical industry, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level CRAs in the pharmaceutical industry often face challenges such as managing multiple study sites, learning complex regulatory requirements, and adapting quickly to new technologies and protocols. Balancing travel demands with maintaining accurate documentation and effective site communication can also be demanding. To overcome these challenges, new CRAs should seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, stay organized with robust tracking tools, and invest time in continuous learning about Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines and evolving industry standards. Building strong relationships with site staff and frequent communication with the project team can further enhance efficiency and confidence in the role.

What are entry level CRA pharmaceutical jobs?

Entry level CRA (Clinical Research Associate) pharmaceutical jobs involve assisting with the monitoring and management of clinical trials to ensure they are conducted according to regulatory standards and study protocols. People in these roles typically help with site visits, data collection, documentation, and communication between clinical trial sites and the sponsoring pharmaceutical company. These positions are ideal for individuals with a background in life sciences and a strong interest in clinical research who are looking to start their careers in the pharmaceutical industry.
More about Entry Level Cra Pharmaceutical jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Cra Pharmaceutical jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Cra Pharmaceutical job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cra Pharmaceutical jobs? The most popular types of Cra Pharmaceutical jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cra Pharmaceutical job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.
Clinical Research Associate - Cincinnati, OH (Entry-Level)

Clinical Research Associate - Cincinnati, OH (Entry-Level)

Medpace, Inc.

Cincinnati, OH • Hybrid

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Medpace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 57 rated research


Job description

Job Summary

Join our team in Cincinnati, Ohio!

The Clinical Research Associate position at Medpace offers the unique opportunity to have an exciting career in the research of drug and medical device development while making a difference in the lives of those around them. For those with a medical and/or health/life science background who want to explore the research field, travel the US, and be part of a team bringing pharmaceutical and medical devices to market - this could be the right opportunity for you!

Our successful Clinical Research Associates possess various backgrounds in medical and other science-related healthcare fields. Backgrounds of individuals who have succeeded in the CRA role include:

  • Nursing
  • Dietetics
  • Nutrition Science
  • Pharmaceutical/Device Sales Representative
  • Physical and Occupational Therapist
  • Biomedical/Chemical Engineer
  • PhD/Post-Doc
  • Health and Wellness Education Coordinators
  • Clinical Research Coordinators
  • Research Assistants

MEDPACE CRA TRAINING PROGRAM (PACE)

No research experience is needed as Medpace provides comprehensive initial and ongoing training, unmatched by other CROs. Through our PACE Training Program, you will join other Professionals Achieving CRA Excellence:

  • PACE provides the platform to effectively and confidently carry out your duties, enhance your current abilities and ultimately help you become a high-functioning independent Medpace CRA.
  • PACE will prepare you by developing your CRA skills through interactive discussions and hands on job-related exercises and practicums.
  • To supplement your in-house and field-based training you may also participate in other clinical research departmental core rotations, learning other aspects of the drug/device development and approval process. 

WHY BECOME A CRA

This role takes you on a journey through travel and excitement which will allow you to make a difference on a large scale through the enhancement of pharmaceuticals and medical devices. 

The CRA position provides many other distinctive advantages including:

  • Dynamic working environment, with varying responsibilities day-to-day
  • Expansive experience in multiple therapeutic areas
  • Work within a team of therapeutic and regulatory experts
  • Defined CRA promotion and growth ladder with potential for mentoring and management advancements
  • Competitive pay and many additional perks unmatched by other CROs (SEE BELOW).

WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING

  • Competitive travel bonus;
  • Equity/Stock Option Program;
  • Training completion and retention bonus
  • Annual merit increases;
  • 401K matching;
  • The opportunity to work from home;
  • Flexible work hours across days within a week;
  • Retain airline reward miles and hotel reward points;
  • Home office furniture allowance, laptop, mobile phone with hotspot for internet access anywhere;
  • In-house travel agents, reimbursement for airline club, and TSA pre-check;
  • Opportunity for leadership positions - Lead CRA, CRA Manager, Clinical Trial Manager, Training and Development Manager, and many more;
  • CRA training program (PACE);
  • Ongoing therapeutic training by our in-house physicians who are medical and regulatory experts;
  • In-house administrative support for all levels of CRAs; and
  • Opportunities to work with international team of CRAs.
Responsibilities
  • Conduct qualification, initiation, monitoring, and closeout visits at research sites in compliance with the approved protocol;
  • Communication with the medical site staff including coordinators, clinical research physicians, and their site staff;
  • Verify adequate investigator qualifications, training and resources, including facilities, laboratories, equipment, and staff;
  • Medical record and research source documentation verification against case report form data, including informing the site staff of any entry errors, ensuring good documentation practices are being adhered to and communicating  protocol deviations appropriately per SOPs, GCP, and applicable regulatory requirements;
  • On-site and virtual/remote monitoring activities with a risk-based monitoring approach (including centralized data review) through our integrated Clinical Trial Management System to identify site deviations/deficiencies and corrective/preventive actions to bring a site back into compliance and mitigate risks moving forward;
  • Verification that the investigator is enrolling only eligible subjects;
  • Regulatory document review;
  • Medical device and/or investigational product/drug accountability and inventory;
  • Verification and review of adverse events, serious adverse events, concomitant medications and corresponding illnesses to confirm accurate data reporting in accordance with the protocol;
  • Assess the clinical research site's patient recruitment and retention success and offering suggestions for improvement; and
  • Completion of monitoring reports and follow-up letters, which includes providing summaries of the significant findings, deviations, deficiencies, and recommended actions to secure compliance.
Qualifications
  • Must have a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in a health or science related field; Advanced degrees or prior clinical research experience is a plus; In-House CRA position available for those with no or minimal clinical research experience with rapid advancement;
  • Ability to travel 60-70% to locations nationwide is required, or less if remote/virtual visits required;
  • Must maintain a valid driver's license and the ability to drive to monitoring sites;
  • Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office;
  • Strong communication and presentation skills; and
  • Must be detail-oriented and efficient in time management.
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 medical device industries. Our mission is to accelerate the global development of safe and effective medical therapeutics through its scientific and disciplined approach. We leverage local regulatory and therapeutic expertise across all major areas including oncology, cardiology, metabolic disease, endocrinology, central nervous system, anti-viral and anti-infective. Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, employing more than 6,000 people across 40+ countries.

Why Medpace?

People. Purpose. Passion. Make a Difference Tomorrow. Join Us Today.

The work we've done over the past 30+ years has positively impacted the lives of countless patients and families who face hundreds of diseases across all key therapeutic areas. The work we do today will improve the lives of people living with illness and disease in the future.

Cincinnati Perks

  • Cincinnati Campus Overview
  • Flexible work environment
  • Competitive PTO packages, starting at 20+ days
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package
  • Company-sponsored employee appreciation events
  • Employee health and wellness initiatives
  • Community involvement with local nonprofit organizations
  • Discounts on local sports games, fitness gyms and attractions
  • Modern, ecofriendly campus with an on-site fitness center
  • Structured career paths with opportunities for professional growth
  • Discounted tuition for UC online programs

Awards

  • Named a Top Workplace in 2024 by The Cincinnati Enquirer

  • Recognized by Forbes as one of America's Most Successful Midsize Companies in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024
  • Continually recognized with CRO Leadership Awards from Life Science Leader magazine based on expertise, quality, capabilities, reliability, and compatibility

What to Expect Next

A Medpace team member will review your qualifications and, if interested, you will be contacted with details for next steps.

Employment Type: OTHER

Medpace logo

About Medpace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Medpace is a globally recognized clinicial contract research organization (CRO) based in Cincinnati, OH, in the United States. Established in 1992, it operates in the healthcare sector, providing scientifically-driven outsourcing solutions for the development of drugs and medical devices. It offers comprehensive services like full-service clinical development services, regulatory affairs management, clinical pharmacology, data management, statistical analysis, and medical writing. By applying a scientifically-driven, therapeutically-focused, and patient-centric approach, Medpace's mission is to accelerate the global development of safe and effective medical therapies.

Industry

Medical equipment and supplies manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cincinnati, OH, US

Year founded

1992