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Research Study Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Clinical Research Assistant

Fresno, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.48/hr

Archives research study records at study closure. * Scheduling & Inventory Management : Schedule monitoring and vendor visits and manage study kit inventory. * Prescreening Activities: Assist with ...

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Research Study Assistant information

See California salary details

$8

$21

$31

How much do research study assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for research study assistant in California is $21.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a research study assistant get paid?

Research study assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the research. Some positions may offer additional benefits or stipends, especially in academic or clinical settings.

Is it hard to get a job as a research study assistant?

Securing a position as a research study assistant typically requires relevant education, such as a bachelor's degree in a related field, and sometimes prior experience or familiarity with research tools like data analysis software. Competition can vary depending on the institution and location, but strong organizational skills and attention to detail are often valued by employers.

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

To thrive as a Research Study Assistant, you need a solid understanding of research methods, data collection, and basic statistical analysis, often supported by a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with data management software (such as REDCap or SPSS) and compliance with research ethics certifications are typical requirements. Attention to detail, strong organizational abilities, and effective communication skills are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate data handling, adherence to protocols, and successful collaboration with research teams.

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

AspectResearch Study AssistantResearch Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a related fieldOften requires a bachelor's degree; some roles prefer or require additional certifications
Work EnvironmentAssists with data collection, participant recruitment, and administrative tasks in research settingsOversees study protocols, manages staff, and ensures compliance in research projects
Employer & IndustryHospitals, universities, research institutesHospitals, research organizations, academic institutions

The main difference is that Research Study Assistants support data collection and administrative tasks, while Research Coordinators manage study operations and oversee research projects. Both roles are essential in research settings but differ in responsibilities and level of oversight.

What is a research study assistant?

Research Study Assistants are professionals who support the design, implementation, and management of research studies, often in academic, medical, or scientific settings. Their responsibilities typically include recruiting participants, collecting and organizing data, maintaining study records, and ensuring compliance with research protocols. They work closely with principal investigators and other research staff to ensure studies run smoothly and efficiently. Research Study Assistants play a crucial role in maintaining data integrity and supporting the overall success of research projects.

What are some typical challenges research study assistants face when coordinating participant recruitment and data collection?

Research Study Assistants often encounter challenges such as recruiting enough qualified participants within tight timelines and maintaining participant engagement throughout the study. Managing scheduling conflicts, ensuring informed consent, and adhering to strict data collection protocols are also common hurdles. Successful assistants are proactive in communication, detail-oriented, and adept at troubleshooting unexpected issues that may arise during recruitment or data gathering. Building rapport with participants and collaborating closely with the research team helps address these challenges effectively.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Study jobs in California? The most popular types of Research Study jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Research Study Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Research Study Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Study Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,974 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Research Assistant, Part-Time/Bilingual (Jenkins, B)

Chapman University

Orange, CA • On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago


Chapman University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

260th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Information
Position Title Research Assistant, Part-Time/Bilingual (Jenkins, B) Position Type Limited-Term (Renewable) Job Number SA83124 Full or Part Time part-time 0-19 hours weekly Fair Labor Standard Act Classification Non-Exempt Anticipated Pay Range $18.00 - $23.00 Pay Range Information
Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
The Part-Time Bilingual Research Assistant (Spanish/English) supports an NIH-funded pediatric asthma research study by assisting with participant recruitment, screening, enrollment, and ongoing study coordination. Working closely with adolescents, caregivers, healthcare providers, and research staff, the Research Assistant reviews medical records, conducts eligibility screenings, obtains informed consent and assent, schedules study visits, maintains research databases, and ensures the accurate and confidential management of study data. This role requires excellent communication, organization, and attention to detail while supporting the successful implementation of clinical research activities.
This position involves working with families receiving care through the Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) and provides valuable experience in clinical research, participant recruitment, data management, and working with pediatric populations. This position is 10 hours per week. The candidate will mainly work 2-3 nights (in the 5-8pm range) and 1 weekend day for 2-3 hours (either Saturday in the 10am-5pm range or Sunday in the 12noon-5pm range). We are flexible with the schedule in that the candidate can shift their nights and/or weekend times around when needed.
Responsibilities
  • Review electronic medical records to identify potentially eligible adolescent patients with asthma
  • Contact caregivers by telephone to introduce the study and assess interest in participation
  • Explain study procedures to caregivers and adolescent participants
  • Obtain informed consent from caregivers and assent from adolescents
  • Schedule study visits and coordinate participant enrollment in the study
  • Assist with additional research activities as needed
  • Meet with research team members
Required Qualifications
  • 1-2 years of prior research experience, including knowledge of research methods and terminology
  • Conversational fluency in both English and Spanish (candidates need not know medical terminology as we teach this once hired)
  • Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills
  • Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail 
  • Ability to communicate professionally and compassionately with families
  • Comfortable speaking with participants by telephone in Spanish
  • Ability to work independently while managing multiple tasks
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word)
Desired Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree and/or equivalent combination of education and work experience in psychology, health sciences, biology, or related field
  • Experience working in clinical research, healthcare, or with pediatric populations
  • Experience interacting with research participants
  • Experience with REDCap, electronic medical records, or research databases
Special Instructions to Applicants
At Chapman University, we believe collaboration thrives through in-person engagement. This position is fully on campus, and employees work alongside colleagues, faculty, students, and staff each day to support our vibrant university community.
Chapman University is an equal opportunity employer that provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of their protected characteristics.  All qualified applicants and employees are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.
Applicants for Staff and Administrator positions must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. 
The offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion and outcomes of a criminal background screening and returning to the Office of Human Resources a signed original acceptance of the Chapman University Agreement to Arbitrate.
Minimum Number of References 1 Maximum Number of References 3

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