APEX Clinical Research Associate (CRA) - October 2026 Cohort

We are seeking candidates with up to 2 years of experience in Clinical Research and preferred therapeutic area experience in Oncology, Cell & Gene Therapy, Ophthalmology, or Dermatology. Applicants must reside in the West or Central Regions of the US (California, Washington, Idaho, Michigan, Texas, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, or Illinois). The October cohort starts on October 12, 2026, and selected candidates must attend in-person training in Raleigh, NC, the week of November 9, 2026.

About the role

The Accelerated Program of Education, Exposure, and Experience for Clinical Research Associates (APEX CRA) provides foundational clinical research training, including project and system experience. APEX CRAs perform billable project tasks to support CRAs and Clinical Operations Leads (COLs) in three developmental areas: Project Support, Initiation CRA support, and Site Facing support. Participants must complete the ACRP Entry Level Knowledge Assessment (CRKA) and receive a 1-year membership to the ACRP.

Over four months, APEX CRAs work closely with CRAs to gain exposure to the CRA role and its responsibilities. They apply in-class concepts by working with clinical systems such as Clinical Trial Management Systems (CTMS), Electronic Data Capture, Safety Information Systems, and TMF platforms. Instructor-led trainings are supplemented with ongoing coaching from Line Managers and COLs. APEX CRAs also accompany CRAs for observational and co-monitoring support during on-site or remote visits, combining learning with workload support.

Upon completion, APEX CRAs are well-positioned to function independently as CRAs and begin successful monitoring. The CRA role at Parexel goes beyond typical clinical monitoring, focusing on building and maintaining site relationships, resolving site issues, and managing site quality from identification through close-out.

Responsibilities

• Support CRAs and Clinical Operations Leads (COLs) in Project Support, Initiation CRA support, and Site Facing support.
• Complete the ACRP Entry Level Knowledge Assessment (CRKA).
• Work with clinical systems, including CTMS, Electronic Data Capture, Safety Information Systems, and TMF platforms.
• Accompany CRAs for observational and co-monitoring support during on-site or remote visits.
• Manage site relationships, address and resolve site issues, and ensure site success.
• Oversee site quality and delivery from site identification through close-out.

Requirements

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in life sciences, data sciences, pharmacy, or other health-related disciplines.
• Up to 24 months of experience in clinical research.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills within a matrixed team.
• Ability to work in a self-driven capacity with a sense of urgency and limited oversight.
• Client-focused approach with flexibility for assignments and new learning.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, evaluate unpredictable scenarios, and meet project timelines while applying protocol understanding.
• Honest and ethical work approach to promote life-changing treatments for patients.
• Strong computer skills with aptitude to learn new systems quickly.
• Ability to travel 80% of the time, including at least five visits per month and 7 days on-site, which may require weekly overnight travel and some weekend travel.
• Must be able to legally work in the US without sponsorship now or in the future.

Spanish or French language capability is considered beneficial.

Benefits

• Opportunities for career growth into senior CRA roles, line management, Quality, Project Leadership, or other positions.
• Regular performance discussions and evaluations to support career development.
• Collaborative work environment with open discussions and shared expertise.
• Paid time off, 401k match, life insurance, health insurance, and other benefits in accordance with applicable plans.

Pay

The potential base pay range for this role is $60,000–$70,000. The actual salary offered may vary based on skills, education, training, experience, professional achievement, and location. Some roles may also be eligible for additional incentives, bonuses, and other benefits.

Schedule

• Candidates must be available to start on October 12, 2026.
• In-person training in Raleigh, NC, the week of November 9, 2026, is required if hired.
• During the first six months, travel will be limited but will increase as development continues.
• Travel expectations include at least five visits per month and 7 days on-site, with potential for weekly overnight travel and some weekend travel.