Public Health

Clinical Data Manager

SOC 15-2051.02 · ESCO 2522 · OSCA 224932

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Role snapshot

Overview

Designs and maintains databases that capture clinical trial data, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance. Writes data validation rules, resolves discrepancies with research sites, and prepares datasets for statistical analysis. This role is crucial for ensuring the integrity and reliability of clinical research findings.

Ensures the accuracy and integrity of clinical trial data, which is fundamental for regulatory submissions, drug approval, and ultimately, patient safety and public health. Contributes directly to the advancement of medical science.

On the job

  • Develop and implement clinical trial databases and data entry screens using Electronic Data Capture (EDC) systems.
  • Write and execute comprehensive data validation plans and discrepancy management procedures.
  • Perform meticulous quality control checks on clinical data and resolve data discrepancies in collaboration with research sites.
  • Generate data management reports, listings, and prepare clean, analysis-ready datasets for statistical analysis.
  • Ensure all data management activities comply with regulatory requirements, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Clinical Data Manager at work

Tools & technology

Medidata RaveOracle ClinicalSQLSASMicrosoft ExcelClinical Trial Management Systems (CTMS)

Average salary

$95K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$75K Bottom 10%
$120K Top 10%

Job outlook

Growing

Job growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.

Education & training

A bachelor's degree in a scientific, health, or computer science field is typically required, often with specific training or certification in clinical data management.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Clinical Data Manager
Lead Clinical Data Manager
Data Management Project Manager

CURRENT ROLE

Clinical Data Manager

Public Health

ADJACENT MOVES

Clinical Informatics Specialist
Biostatistician
Clinical Data Coordinator
Data Entry Specialist Clinical
Clinical Research Associate

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

C

conventional · CIE

Individuals who thrive on precision, systematic problem-solving, and managing complex information with a high degree of accuracy are well-suited for this role. It combines investigative analysis with structured, conventional processes.

Personality characteristics

Conscientious

Highly organized, meticulous, and disciplined in ensuring data accuracy and adherence to strict regulatory guidelines.

Analytical

Enjoys investigating complex data patterns, identifying discrepancies, and solving intricate data-related problems.

Collaborative

Works effectively with cross-functional teams, including clinical operations and biostatistics, to achieve data quality goals.

Detail-Oriented

Possesses a keen eye for detail, which is critical for identifying subtle discrepancies and ensuring the integrity of clinical trial data.

Resilient

Maintains composure and focus under pressure in a demanding, highly regulated environment, handling data challenges calmly.

Best for

  • People who are highly organized, detail-oriented, and enjoy working with data systems to ensure accuracy and compliance.
  • Professionals who want to contribute to medical research by safeguarding the quality and integrity of clinical trial information.

Watch out for

  • The work is highly regulated and requires strict adherence to protocols, which may not suit those who prefer less structure.
  • Resolving data discrepancies often involves extensive communication and follow-up, requiring patience and persistence.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Clinical Data Manager — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Team Stand-up & Project Prioritization
Clinical Database Design & Amendment Implementation
Data Validation Rule Development & Testing
Tue
Review & Resolve Data Discrepancies with Sites
Meeting with Clinical Operations Team
Perform Data Quality Control Checks
Wed
Data Cleaning & Reconciliation Activities
Vendor Meeting (EDC System Support)
Prepare Data Management Plan Documentation
Thu
Generate and Review Data Management Reports
Meeting with Biostatisticians for Dataset Handover
Prepare Analysis-Ready Datasets (SAS/SQL scripting)
Fri
Review and Update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Ad-hoc Data Queries & Support
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

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