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Entry Level Research Assistant Jobs in California

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Entry Level Research Assistant information

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$24.7K

$47.2K

$67.6K

How much do entry level research assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level research assistant in California is $47,205.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $51,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level research assistant do?

An Entry Level Research Assistant supports researchers by collecting data, conducting literature reviews, and assisting with experiments or surveys. They may also help analyze findings, maintain research records, and prepare reports or presentations. This role is common in academic, medical, or corporate research settings and provides valuable experience for those pursuing a research career. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of research methods are essential for success in this position.

What are typical daily responsibilities for an entry level research assistant?

As an Entry Level Research Assistant, your daily tasks often include collecting and organizing data, maintaining accurate research records, conducting literature reviews, and assisting with the preparation of reports or presentations. You may also help set up experiments, coordinate participant interviews or surveys, and ensure all research protocols are followed. Collaboration is common—expect to work closely with senior researchers, project managers, and other assistants. This hands-on role is an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience in the research field and develop valuable technical and analytical skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an entry level research assistant position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Research Assistant, you need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, keen analytical and organizational skills, and a basic understanding of research methods. Familiarity with data analysis software like SPSS or Excel, as well as experience handling databases or survey tools, is commonly required. Attention to detail, effective time management, and strong teamwork and communication skills help you excel in the position. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate data collection, reliable results, and productive collaboration with research teams.

How hard is it to get a job as an entry level research assistant?

Securing an entry level research assistant position typically requires a relevant bachelor's degree, strong organizational skills, and familiarity with research methods or data analysis tools. Competition can vary depending on the field and location, but internships or related coursework can improve chances of hiring.

Is an entry level research assistant a good first job?

An entry level research assistant position can be a good first job for individuals interested in gaining experience in research, data collection, and analysis. It often provides foundational skills, exposure to academic or industry environments, and may require basic knowledge of tools like Excel or statistical software. This role can help build a professional network and clarify career interests in research or related fields.

What qualifications are needed to be an entry level research assistant?

Entry level research assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions preferring or requiring a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, social science, or humanities. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with data collection tools or software are also important qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Research Assistant jobs in California?

For Entry Level Research Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Research Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,205 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Assistant Clinical Research Coordinator

University of California San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$28.50 - $38/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description


Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI), incumbent will perform entry level duties related to support and coordination of clinical research studies evaluating evidence-based interventions for traditionally underserved populations worldwide.
The incumbent will help prepare protocols for the study; help design flow sheets, data forms and source documents; gather data regarding clinical trial subjects; may apply understanding of inclusion/exclusion eligibility criteria for protocols; help recruit, enroll, register, schedule and retain study subjects; assist research personnel to keep subjects on study schedules; complete study forms to submit to sponsors and/or appropriate agencies; collect, enter and clean data into study databases, maintaining data quality; assist with data analysis; assist with preparation of reports and tables; attend team meetings; assist with management of study website; and perform other duties as assigned.
This is an opportunity to be a key member of an international clinical intervention research team, learn about the implementation and evaluation of a school-based mental health intervention for youth with inattention and disruptive behavior, collaborate (virtually) with researchers and community members in Mexico, and coordinate a National Institute of Health (NIH)-funded global health clinical research protocol.
Responsibilities
of time (Nothing less than 5%)
Essential Function (Yes/No)
Key Responsibilities
(To be completed by Supervisor)
10%
YES
Provide administrative project support to STRIVElab projects including:
  • Scheduling project and collaborator meetings.
  • Disseminating project-related materials to project team staff.
  • Updating the lab website

90%
YES
Provide clinical research support to STRIVElab projects including:
  • Completing study documentation including IRB reports, funder reports, and presentation, manuscript, and grant preparation.
  • Data entry, database management, data transfer processes.
  • Assisting with recruitment, enrollment, consent, and retention of participants.
  • Completing screening interviews with parents and teachers of students with attention and behavior concerns.
  • Updating clinical materials, including manuals, handouts and videos.
  • Supporting delivery of school-based behavioral health interventions being evaluated.
  • Building and maintaining partnerships with school stakeholders.

100%
(To update total %, enter the amount of time in whole numbers (without the % symbol - e.g., 15, 20) then highlight the total sum (e.g., 1%) at the bottom of the column and press F9. The total sum should add up to 100%.)
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • HS graduation and sufficient experience and demonstrated skills to successfully perform the assigned duties and responsibilities.
  • Fluency in Spanish
  • Attention to detail; strong interpersonal skills; excellent, effective verbal and written communication skills to coordinate with subjects, team members, other departments and outside institutions; and the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment while working with a diverse subject population.
  • Ability to work well independently, complete projects in a timely manner, and prioritize multiple projects to ensure the completion of essential tasks by deadlines.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills.
  • Excellent quantitative skills.
  • Proficiency in basic computer skills including word processing, spreadsheets, calendaring (including google calendars and outlook), cloud storage (REDCap, Qualtrics), and other online tasks

Preferred Qualifications
  • One or more years of research experience working on clinical trials
  • Experience with recruiting and/or managing study participants
  • Clear understanding of maintaining the security and confidentiality of participant data
  • Fluency in the usage of Committee of Human Research (CHR) online iMEDris system for submission, renewal, and modification of protocols through this system.
  • Understanding of patient population to create rapport and a relationship, while also giving insight to what is realistic and appropriate for patient participation.
  • Certification by the Society of Clinical Research Associates or the Association of Clinical Research Professionals
  • BS in Psychology or Education preferred.
  • Experience with electronic medical records.
  • Knowledge of UCSF and departmental policies for dealing with reimbursement, guidelines for research, confidentiality and HIPPA regulations, following the UCSF mission statement and purpose for research, and a clear understanding of policies and procedures on patient safety and confidentiality (electronic and hard copy medical records, patient charts, communication, etc.); knowledge of medical terminology, research policies and guidelines, guidelines for packing/shipping infectious substances, database building/analysis, and data management within some of the following: Access, Stata, SASS/ SPSS, and Teleform programming platforms.
  • Experience applying the following regulations and guidelines:
    Good Clinical Practice Guidelines
    Health Information and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
    The Protection of Human Research Subjects
    CHR regulations for recruitment and consent of research subjects
    Effective Cash Handling Procedures

About Us
About UCSF
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences. We bring together the world's leading experts in nearly every area of health. We are home to five Nobel laureates who have advanced the understanding of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, aging and stem cells.
Pride Values
UCSF is a diverse community made of people with many skills and talents. We seek candidates whose work experience or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence - also known as our PRIDE values.
In addition to our PRIDE values, UCSF is committed to equity - both in how we deliver care as well as our workforce. We are committed to building a broadly diverse community, nurturing a culture that is welcoming and supportive, and engaging diverse ideas for the provision of culturally competent education, discovery, and patient care. Additional information about UCSF is available here.
Join us to find a rewarding career contributing to improving healthcare worldwide.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
Salary Information
The final salary and offer components are subject to additional approvals based on UC policy.
Your placement within the salary range is dependent on a number of factors including your work experience and internal equity within this position classification at UCSF. For positions that are represented by a labor union, placement within the salary range will be guided by the rules in the collective bargaining agreement.
To learn more about the benefits of working at UCSF, including total compensation, please visit: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html

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