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Lead Clinical Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PSI CRO

Lead Clinical Research Associate

As a Lead Clinical Research Associate, you'll provide leadership, oversight, and mentorship across regional clinical trials while partnering closely with Project Managers, Regional Project Leads ...

PSI CRO

Lead Clinical Research Associate

As a Lead Clinical Research Associate, you'll provide leadership, oversight, and mentorship across regional clinical trials while partnering closely with Project Managers, Regional Project Leads ...

PSI CRO

As a Lead Clinical Research Associate, you'll provide leadership, oversight, and mentorship across regional clinical trials while partnering closely with Project Managers, Regional Project Leads ...

Celerion

Lead, Clinical Research Associate - US

Celerion, a leader in clinical research, is seeking a full-time Lead, Clinical Research Associate to oversee monitoring and site management activities for clinical trials, clinical investigations and ...

Celerion

Lead, Clinical Research Associate - US

Celerion, a leader in clinical research, is seeking a full-time Lead, Clinical Research Associate to oversee monitoring and site management activities for clinical trials, clinical investigations and ...

Cardiovascular Associates of America

FL · On-site

Lead Clinical Research Coordinator Must live in Lake Nona area or willing to relocate Job Type ... Cardiovascular Associates of America (CVAUSA) is a rapidly growing leader in cardiovascular care ...

CVAUSA

Lead Clinical Research Coordinator Must live in Lake Nona area or willing to relocate Job Type ... Cardiovascular Associates of America (CVAUSA) is a rapidly growing leader in cardiovascular care ...

ScholarshipsAds Inc.

Clinical Research Associate (CRA) Location: Redwood City, CA Length: 6 Month Contract Were seeking a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) with strong clinical monitoring experience to support a growing ...

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Lead Clinical Research Associate information

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$36K

$81.2K

$156K

How much do lead clinical research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead clinical research associate in the United States is $81,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $90,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead clinical research associate?

A Lead Clinical Research Associate (Lead CRA) is a senior-level professional responsible for overseeing and coordinating the activities of clinical research associates (CRAs) during clinical trials. They ensure that clinical studies are conducted in compliance with regulatory requirements, study protocols, and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines. Lead CRAs often act as a liaison between the sponsor, study sites, and internal teams, providing training, guidance, and support to junior CRAs. They may also be involved in monitoring trial progress, resolving issues at study sites, and ensuring data quality and integrity throughout the clinical trial process.

How does a lead clinical research associate typically collaborate with study teams and site staff during a clinical trial?

A Lead Clinical Research Associate (Lead CRA) plays a pivotal role in coordinating communication between the sponsor, clinical trial sites, and internal study teams. They oversee and mentor CRAs, resolve site issues, and ensure compliance with protocols and regulations. Regularly, Lead CRAs participate in team meetings, provide guidance to site staff, and help troubleshoot operational challenges, ensuring smooth study progress and data integrity. This collaborative approach is essential for addressing site concerns swiftly and maintaining high-quality trial standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead clinical research associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Clinical Research Associate, you need expertise in clinical trial management, regulatory compliance, and protocol development, typically supported by a life sciences degree and experience in clinical research. Familiarity with clinical trial management systems (CTMS), electronic data capture (EDC) tools, and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) certification is vital. Strong leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure that clinical trials are conducted efficiently, ethically, and in compliance with all regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Lead Clinical Research Associate vs Clinical Research Associate?

AspectLead Clinical Research AssociateClinical Research Associate
CredentialsBachelor's degree, often with experience; certifications like CCRP or RACBachelor's degree; certifications like CCRP or RAC
Work EnvironmentLeads study teams, manages site activities, oversees multiple sitesMonitors clinical sites, ensures protocol compliance, reports data
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical companies, CROs, biotech firmsPharmaceutical companies, CROs, biotech firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in clinical trialsEntry to mid-level monitoring roles

The Lead Clinical Research Associate typically oversees multiple sites, manages study teams, and ensures protocol adherence, whereas the Clinical Research Associate focuses on monitoring individual sites and collecting data. Both roles require similar credentials and are used across the same industries, but the lead position involves more leadership responsibilities.

What cities are hiring for Lead Clinical Research Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Lead Clinical Research Associate job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Lead Clinical Research jobs?

The most popular types of Lead Clinical Research jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Lead Clinical Research Associate jobs?

The top employers for Lead Clinical Research Associate jobs are:

What states have the most Lead Clinical Research Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lead Clinical Research Associate jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Lead Clinical Research Associate jobs?

For Lead Clinical Research Associate jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lead Clinical Research Associate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,196 per year, or $39 per hour.

Lead Clinical Research Associate

Raritan, NJ • On-site

Global Channel Management, Inc.
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Global Channel Management, Inc.external

$45/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Global Channel Management is a technology company that specializes in various types of recruiting and staff augmentation.  Our account managers and recruiters have over a decade of experience in various verticals. GCM understands the challenges companies face when it comes to the skills and experience needed to fill the void of the day to day function.  Organizations need to reduce training and labor costs but at same requiring the best "talent " for the job. 


Qualifications

Lead Clinical Research Associate needs:


  • BS/BA, MS is desirable 
  • 5+ years of site management of which a minimum of 2 years field monitoring experience 
  • Knowledge of applicable standards and regulations for clinical trial
  • Experience in Cardiovascular Therapeutic area
  • IVD Stud Experience
  • Medidata RAVE system 

Lead Clinical Research Associate duties:


  • Under
    supervision of Clinical Project Lead, oversees performance of assigned
    field monitors and site activities in accordance with the Monitoring
    Plan, Protocol, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), ICH guidelines and federal
    regulations.
  • The LCRA acts as a primary liaison between Field
    Based CRAs and the Clinical Project Lead (CPL). Additional
    responsibilities include:
  • Implementation of enrollment and recruitment strategies 
  • Assistance in vendors' selection processes
Additional Information

$45/hr

12 months

Global Channel Management logo

About Global Channel Management

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Global Channel Management is a technology company that specializes in various types of recruiting and staff augmentation. Global Channel Management understands the challenges companies face when it comes to the skills and experience needed to fill the void of the day to day function. Organizations need to reduce training and labor costs but at the same time requiring the best talent for the job. GCM's Ownership and Management teams have extensive Staffing, Recruiting, HR and Executive Leadership knowledge, Experience and Expertise. Our Understanding and Commitment to our Client's Satisfaction are key reasons GCM has been successful in establishing long term relationships.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Austell, GA, US

Social media

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