I have been a CCRC for 8 years, working all aspects of the site side and for the last two years working fully remote as a coordinator for several sites at once. I am finally ready to make the transition to a CRA, which I’ve wanted to do since about 2 years into my career. I’ve been applying for the last year, but little to no bites yet. I heard that it is easier to get an entry level CRA position if you have experience as a CTA first. This is referring to a Clinical Trial Associate, not a Clinical Trial Assistant, right? I feel like the assistant is definitely a step down. The clinical trial associate position seems like less work than what I’m doing now and for more pay, so I’m willing to go that route first. I just want to make sure that when someone says CTA, I know what they mean.

Side question: What would be another good stepping stone job on my way to becoming a CRA? I’m looking at positions 80K annually, fully remote(with or without travel up to 60%), and I’m based in California.