1

Research Program Assistant Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Research Program Assistant information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$20.3K

$43.2K

$59.6K

How much do research program assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for research program assistant in Tucson, AZ is $43,228.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,500.00 and $44,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research program assistant?

To thrive as a Research Program Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a background in research or data management, often supported by a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with data entry software, survey tools, and basic statistical programs like SPSS or Excel is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you collaborate effectively with researchers and participants. These skills ensure accurate data collection, smooth project coordination, and successful research outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by research program assistants, and how can they be overcome?

Research Program Assistants often juggle multiple tasks such as data collection, participant coordination, and administrative support, which can make time management a key challenge. Adapting to changing project priorities and maintaining clear communication with researchers, participants, and other team members is essential for success. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to develop strong organizational skills, proactively seek clarification when priorities shift, and regularly check in with supervisors to ensure alignment on project goals and timelines.

What is the difference between Research Program Assistant vs Research Coordinator?

AspectResearch Program AssistantResearch Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a related fieldOften requires a bachelor's or master's degree, with some roles preferring additional certifications
Work EnvironmentSupports research projects, assisting with data collection and administrative tasksManages research projects, overseeing protocols, compliance, and team coordination
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in academic, healthcare, and research institutions for supporting research activitiesCommonly found in research institutions, universities, and healthcare organizations overseeing research operations

The main difference is that Research Program Assistants support research activities through data collection and administrative tasks, while Research Coordinators oversee entire research projects, managing protocols and team coordination. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Research Program Assistant jobs in Tucson, AZ?

For Research Program Assistant jobs in Tucson, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Program Assistant jobs in Tucson, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Program Assistant jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Research Program Assistant jobs?

Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Research Program Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Program Assistant job openings in Tucson, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,228 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Research Program Administrator, Steward Observatory

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


University Of Arizona rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

362nd of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Compliance & Program Administration:

  • Maintain compliance and asset logs, run monthly reports to determine recertification needs, send reminder notifications, and maintain records. This involves using information obtained from the University Edge Learning portal and Financials and performing restricted party screenings.
  • Coordinate and perform day-to-day operational and administrative activities in support of research programs.
  • Assist with completing special projects assigned by the principal investigator and project directors to fulfill research deliverables.

Financial &Procurement Support:

  • Monitoring subaward and vendor payment requests, purchase order requisitions, and project-related financial transactions to ensure they are in accordance with sponsor guidelines and university policies.
  • Order and track research supplies and equipment.
  • Assist with reconciling accounts, identifying and resolving discrepancies, and notifying management of any discrepancies. This entails accessing and running reports in University financial systems and using the information to create reports.

Reporting &Stakeholder Coordination:

  • Assist with preparing and reviewing quarterly and monthly reports and communicating with subaward recipients regarding project invoicing issues. This entails consulting the University's financial systems (e.g., Financials and Analytics) and working with Excel and Smartsheet to develop and maintain reports.
  • Facilitate the organization and documentation of project meetings and collaborative activities, ensuring smooth information exchange and record-keeping between the project sponsor, external collaborators, and research administration.

Proposal andDeliverable Support:

  • Assist with the preparation and data collection for research proposals submissions and maintain submission and deliverables logs.

Knowledge,Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

  • Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multipledeadlines.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and manage sensitiveinformation.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office products.
  • Familiarity with commonly used project management tools,such as Smartsheet or Microsoft Project.

What University Of Arizona employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom