Thinking about a future in healthcare or research—but not sure where to begin?
At Iowa Diabetes, you don’t need years of experience to make a meaningful impact. As a Clinical Research Assistant (RA), you’ll gain hands-on experience working with patients while contributing to clinical studies that shape the future of diabetes and obesity treatment.
This is more than a job—it’s a starting point. You’ll build real clinical skills, learn how research works in practice, and be part of a team that’s advancing medicine every day.
How We’re Different
Founded in 2007, Iowa Diabetes is a leading diabetes research and care organization in West Des Moines, Iowa, dedicated to improving the lives of adults and children living with diabetes, obesity, and related conditions. Through comprehensive clinical care, patient education, and innovative research, our team has conducted over 250 clinical studies and continues to make a meaningful impact on individual health and the broader community.
At Iowa Diabetes, how we work is just as important as what we do. Our approach is intentional, team-driven, and centered on making a meaningful impact—both for our patients and our employees.
✔ Purpose-driven work: We are committed to advancing diabetes and obesity care through clinical research that improves lives locally and globally.
✔ A culture of growth and support: We invest in our team through training, mentorship, and hands-on learning opportunities, helping you build skills and confidence from day one.
✔ Collaborative team environment: Our clinical and research teams work closely together, creating a supportive setting where communication, respect, and teamwork are the standard.
✔ Patient-centered approach: We work with engaged, motivated patients and prioritize quality interactions over volume-driven care.
✔ Commitment to balance: We offer a structured, predictable schedule that supports consistency and long-term sustainability for our team.
✔ Intentional leadership: Our leadership team is actively involved, approachable, and focused on creating a workplace where people feel valued and empowered.
Role Highlights
- Job Type: Full-time (1.0 FTE)
- Reports to: Research Services Supervisor
- Location: On-site in West Des Moines, Iowa
- Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:30am–4:00pm
What You Bring to the Team
Required qualifications and skills:
- Minimum 1 year of experience in healthcare, clinical, patient-facing, or research settings
- CPR certification (or ability to obtain within 6 months)
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Excellent communication skills and professionalism
- Comfort working full-time on-site in a patient-facing role
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite
Preferred qualifications and skills:
- Experience in clinical research
- CMA/CNA certification
- Knowledge of diabetes, obesity, or metabolic care
How You’ll Make a Difference
- Prepare and manage study visits, including equipment setup, devices, and supplies.
- Support patients during study procedures: vitals, ECGs, point-of-care testing, urinalysis, and other protocol-specific tasks.
- Assist with study documentation, data entry, and maintaining accurate records.
- Manage and track study supplies, including setup, inventory, and proper disposal.
- Collaborate with CRCs, research staff, and external partners to ensure smooth study conduct.
- Provide patient education on diabetes management, devices, and study protocols.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe clinical environment.
- Participate in special projects or tasks as assigned.
Benefits That Support You
- Starting pay: $19–25/hr
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- FSA/HSA options
- Company-paid life insurance, short- and long-term disability
- Identity theft insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Critical illness and accident insurance
- 401(k) / retirement savings options within 3 months
- Generous PTO accrual
Iowa Diabetes is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of any protected status.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $19.00 - $25.00 per hour
Application Question(s):
- Will you now or in the future require a visa sponsorship? This includes visas such as H-1B, F-1 (OPT), TN, L-1, or others. If your answer is yes, please explain.
- Why do you feel you are a good match for the Clinical Research Assistant role with the Iowa Diabetes Care team?
- Prior to joining our team, a pre-employment drugscreen and background check is required. Please type "yes" if you understand.
Experience:
- healthcare, clinical, patient-facing, or research : 1 year (Required)
License/Certification:
Ability to Commute:
- West Des Moines, IA 50266 (Required)
Work Location: In person
