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Entry Level Cra Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Cra information

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$11

$38

$64

How much do entry level cra jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cra in Texas is $38.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.88 and $49.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is CRA an entry level job?

A Clinical Research Associate (CRA) can be an entry-level position, especially for those with a background in life sciences or healthcare. Many companies offer entry-level CRA roles that require basic knowledge of clinical trials, good communication skills, and sometimes a relevant certification or degree. Advancement often involves gaining experience and additional training in clinical research processes.

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

AspectEntry Level CraEntry Level Clinical Research Associate
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in life sciences or related field; some roles may require certificationBachelor's degree in life sciences or related field; certification preferred but not mandatory
Work EnvironmentClinical trial sites, hospitals, research facilitiesMonitoring clinical trials at sites, coordinating with sponsors and investigators
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical companies, CROs, biotech firmsPharmaceutical companies, CROs, research organizations
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Cra vs Entry Level Clinical Research Associate

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in a related field. Entry Level Cra and Entry Level Clinical Research Associate are often used interchangeably, focusing on monitoring clinical trials, ensuring compliance, and supporting research activities within pharmaceutical and biotech industries. The main difference lies in terminology preference, but responsibilities and work environments are very similar.

How to become a CRA without experience?

To become an entry-level Clinical Research Associate (CRA) without experience, focus on gaining knowledge of clinical trial processes through online courses or certifications such as the CCRP. Developing skills in data management, regulatory compliance, and monitoring procedures, along with familiarity with clinical trial software, can improve your chances; some employers may also consider related healthcare or research backgrounds for entry-level roles.

What are Entry Level CRAs?

Entry Level Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) are professionals who help manage and monitor clinical trials to ensure they are conducted according to regulatory guidelines and study protocols. They typically assist with site visits, data verification, and documentation. Entry level CRAs often work under the supervision of more experienced team members while learning the responsibilities of the role. Their work is essential to ensuring the safety of participants and the integrity of clinical trial data.

Is it hard to get a CRA job?

Securing an entry-level Clinical Research Associate (CRA) position can be competitive, often requiring a relevant degree in life sciences or healthcare and some familiarity with clinical trial processes. Candidates typically need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and may benefit from certifications like the CCRP or CRA training programs. Entry-level roles may have less strict requirements, but gaining experience through internships or related positions can improve chances.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Clinical Research Associate (CRA), you generally need a bachelor's degree in life sciences or a related field, strong attention to detail, and foundational knowledge of clinical trial processes. Familiarity with electronic data capture (EDC) systems, Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines, and regulatory documentation is typically required, and GCP certification is often preferred. Excellent organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work independently are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate data collection, regulatory compliance, and successful collaboration with research teams and site staff.

How much does an entry-level CRA make?

An entry-level Clinical Research Associate (CRA) typically earns between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on the location, company, and educational background. Starting salaries may also include benefits such as health insurance and opportunities for professional development in clinical trial monitoring and regulatory compliance.

What Does an Entry-Level CRA Do?

As an entry-level clinical research associate (CRA), you monitor the daily operation of clinical trials and research. Your responsibilities include a mix of administrative duties, such as ordering supplies and coordinating schedules, and research functions, such as collecting data, getting informed consent to investigate human subjects, and ensuring that the set up of the experiment or trial is correct. Clinical research associates may work in teaching hospitals, for pharmaceutical companies, or for other private businesses that focus on clinical trials. As an entry-level CRA, you may have some limited supervisory duties, such as coordinating clinical technicians.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level CRAs and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) often face challenges such as managing multiple study sites, adapting to frequent travel, and staying compliant with complex regulatory requirements. To overcome these hurdles, it's crucial to develop strong organizational skills, seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, and proactively communicate with site staff and project managers. Building a solid understanding of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines and leveraging available training resources can also help new CRAs navigate the learning curve more effectively.
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Infographic showing various Entry Level Cra job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Locum Tenens, 55% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,695 per year, or $38.3 per hour.
Clinical Research Associate I

Clinical Research Associate I

University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 19 days ago


University Of Texas at Austin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

152nd of 611 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Posting Title:

Clinical Research Associate I

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Hiring Department:

Department of Psychiatry

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Position Open To:

All Applicants

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Weekly Scheduled Hours:

40

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FLSA Status:

Exempt from FLSA

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Earliest Start Date:

Jul 20, 2026

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Position Duration:

Expected to Continue Until Aug 31, 2027

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Location:

AUSTIN, TX

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Job Details:

General Notes

Dell Medical School is seeking a Clinical Research Associate I. This is a grant funded position with an end date of 8/31/2027 that is renewable for another year based upon work performance and progress toward research goals.

Purpose

The Clinical Research Associate I (CRA I) provides foundational operational support for clinical trials by assisting with routine monitoring activities, data accuracy checks, document preparation, and visit scheduling under close supervision. This entry-level role helps ensure protocol adherence, participant safety verification, and data integrity by supporting site monitoring visits (remote and on-site) performed by senior CRAs or project leadership. Tasks include preparing visit materials, performing supervised chart reviews, assisting with source data verification, updating trackers, and supporting essential document collection. The CRA I typically reports to a Clinical Project Manager or Senior CRA and works closely with Clinical Research Coordinators, regulatory staff, data management teams, investigational pharmacy, and study leadership.

Responsibilities
  • Supports Site Monitoring Activities
    • Assists senior CRAs with preparation for qualification, initiation, monitoring, and closeout visits.
    • Participates in remote/inperson visits in a shadowing or support capacity.
    • Conducts supervised source data review (SDR) and basic source data verification (SDV), prioritizing accuracy.
    • Drafts or updates visit documentation (e.g., follow-up notes) for senior review.
  • Assists with Data Quality & Query Support
    • Conducts chart reviews and basic checks for completeness, accuracy, and consistency under supervision.
    • Tracks and helps resolve queries with site staff per guidance from senior CRAs or data management.
    • Reviews essential data listings to identify missing data or discrepancies for escalation.
  • Supports Essential Document Management (TMF/ISF)
    • Assists in collecting, uploading, organizing, and tracking essential regulatory documents.
    • Conducts supervised ISF/TMF quality checks for version control and completeness.
    • Prepares document packets for monitoring visits and audits for senior review.
  • Aids in Participant Safety & Compliance Verification
    • Performs preliminary checks of consent documentation for version alignment under oversight
    • Reviews AE/SAE listings and documents for completeness and flags issues to senior CRAs.
    • Confirms eligibility criteria alignment during chart review, escalating uncertainties
  • Contributes to Study Start-up & Training Activities
    • Assists with feasibility and site assessment documentation.
    • Prepares training materials and trackers for protocol, GCP, and site-level instructions.
    • Schedules meetings and maintains study training logs.
  • Maintains Study Trackers, Systems & Communication
    • Updates CTMS, EDC task lists, issue logs, and monitoring visit calendars.
    • Prepares routine status updates for senior CRAs or PMs.
    • Communicates site needs, questions, and status updates in a timely manner.
  • Supports Investigational Product (IP) Documentation
    • Prepares IP accountability forms and checklists for monitoring visits.
    • Assists senior CRAs in reviewing pharmacy logs and storage records.
  • Supports Audit & Inspection Readiness
    • Assists with document retrieval and basic preaudit file checks.
    • Participates in CAPA action tracking managed by senior team members.

Other duties as identified by department.

MARGINAL OR PERIODIC FUNCTIONS:

    • Assists with centralized data review activities for riskbased monitoring.
    • Participates in comonitoring visits and retraining activities as assigned.
    • Provides support for SOP updates, toolkit revisions, or CAPA documentation as directed.
    • Coordinates with vendors (IVRS/IWRS, central labs, eCOA) on minor document or data requests.
    • Adheres to internal controls and reporting structure.
    • Performs related duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIESAttention to Detail

    • Produces accurate work; catches errors early; maintains documentation precision.
    • Detects data/document inconsistencies during supervised SDR/SDV.
    • Ensures version control when preparing essential documents.
    • Carefully follows checklists and monitoring task guides.
  • Learning Agility
    • Learns quickly; open to feedback; applies new knowledge rapidly.
    • Incorporates GCP and SOP feedback into work product.
    • Adapts to evolving monitoring tools (EDC, CTMS).
    • Asks clarifying questions early to avoid quality issues.
  • Planning & Organizing
    • Plans tasks effectively; structures work; anticipates workload steps.
    • Prepares monitoring visit files ahead of deadlines.
    • Maintains uptodate trackers for action items and study progress.
    • Prioritizes highrisk data checks when instructed.
  • Problem Solving
    • Uses structured approaches to understand and escalate issues.
    • Identifies root causes behind repeated documentation errors.
    • Distinguishes urgent vs. nonurgent data issues.
    • Brings potential risks to senior staff promptly.
  • Following Instructions / SOP Adherence
    • Strictly adheres to processes; avoids unauthorized deviations.
    • Follows monitoring plans and SOPs exactly as written.
    • Documents tasks only within approved systems.
    • Escalates uncertainty instead of making independent decisions.
  • Interpersonal Savvy
    • Works effectively with site teams, CRAs, and study staff.
    • Communicates respectfully with CRCs and PI staff.
    • Receives feedback professionally.
    • Adapts communication style to various stakeholders.
  • Written Communication
    • Produces clear, concise documentation aligned with GCP expectations.
    • Drafts clear visit notes and status updates.
    • Writes concise query explanations.
    • Ensures accuracy before submitting documentation for review.
Required Qualifications
  • EDUCATION & EXPERIENCEMINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:Requires a Bachelor's Degree in life sciences, nursing, public health or a related field.
    • Basic understanding of GCP/Human Subjects Protection
    • Demonstrated ability to follow SOPs, maintain accuracy, and learn quickly.
    • Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's Degree in life sciences, nursing, public health or a related field with at least 1 year of experience in clinical research support (CTA, CRC assistant, research intern).

* Experience with EDC/CTMS systems

* Familiarity with riskbased monitoring concepts.

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS OR CERTIFICATIONS

REQUIRED:

* None

PREFERRED:

  • GCP training (ICH E6) and institutional human subjects training upon hire.
  • IATA certification if handling/shipping specimens (applies only if assigned).
  • ACRP (CCRA, ACRPCP) or SOCRA CCRP certification (not required at hire).
Salary Range

$40,000 + depending on qualifications

Working Conditions

* Standard office equipment

* Repetitive use of a keyboard

Required Materials
  • Resume/CV
  • 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
  • Letter of interest

Importantfor applicants who are NOT current university employees or contingent workers:You will be prompted to submit your resume the first time you apply, then you will be provided an option to upload a new Resume for subsequent applications. Any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) will be uploaded in the Application Questions section; you will be able to multi-select additional files. Before submitting your online job application, ensure thatALLRequired Materials have been uploaded. Once your job application has been submitted, you cannot make changes.

Important for Current university employees and contingent workers:As a current university employee or contingent worker, you MUST apply within Workday by searching for Find UT Jobs. If you are a current University employee, log-in to Workday, navigate to your Worker Profile, click the Career link in the left hand navigation menu and then update the sections in your Professional Profile before you apply. This information will be pulled in to your application. The application is one page and you will be prompted to upload your resume. In addition, you must respond to the application questionspresented to upload any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) that were noted above.

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Employment Eligibility:

Regular staff who have been employed in their current position for the last six continuous months are eligible for openings being recruited for through University-Wide or Open Recruiting, to include both promotional opportunities and lateral transfers. Staff who are promotion/transfer eligible may apply for positions without supervisor approval.

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Retirement Plan Eligibility:

The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length.

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Background Checks:

A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

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Equal Opportunity Employer:

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer,complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

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Pay Transparency:

The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information.

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Employment Eligibility Verification:

If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form. You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at the university.

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E-Verify:

The University of Texas at Austin use E-Verify to check the work authorization of all new hires effective May 2015. The university's company ID number for purposes of E-Verify is 854197. For more information about E-Verify, please see the following:

  • E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) [PDF]
  • Right to Work Poster (English) [PDF]
  • Right to Work Poster (Spanish) [PDF]

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Compliance:

Employees may be required to report violations of law under Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). If this position is identified a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act), you will be notified and provided resources for reporting. Responsible employees under Title IX are defined and outlined in HOP-3031.

The Clery Act requires all prospective employees be notified of the availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety report. You may access the most recent report here or obtain a copy at University Compliance Services, 1616 Guadalupe Street, UTA 2.206, Austin, Texas 78701.


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