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Animal Lab Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Certified Group

Lab Analyst

Aurora, IL · On-site

... safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs. Job Summary: Perform analytical and microbiological ... * Assist in quality duties to by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms ...

Certified Group

Lab Analyst

Aurora, IL

... safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs. Job Summary: Perform analytical and microbiological ... * Assist in quality duties to by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms ...

Harper College

Student Aide - Biology

Palatine, IL · On-site

Overview General Function: * washing laboratory dishes * assist with lab set up changes * assist with animal care (Russian Tortoise, Box Turtle , Axolotl, Goldfish, Leopard Gecko, Crested Geckos and ...

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Animal Lab Assistant information

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How much do animal lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal lab assistant in Chicago, IL is $20.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animal lab assistant?

Animal Lab Assistants are professionals who support scientific research by caring for laboratory animals and maintaining their living environments. They are responsible for feeding, cleaning, monitoring animal health, and assisting researchers with experiments. Their work ensures that animals are treated ethically and that experiments are conducted in a safe, controlled environment. Animal Lab Assistants may also help with maintaining records and administering medications as directed by veterinarians or researchers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal lab assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Lab Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of animal care, handling procedures, and basic laboratory techniques, often supported by a relevant certification or associate degree in animal science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data recording systems, and compliance regulations such as IACUC protocols is typically expected. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work collaboratively are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the well-being of laboratory animals, the accuracy of research data, and adherence to ethical and safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by animal lab assistants, and how can they be managed?

Animal Lab Assistants often face challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to protocols, handling animals with care under potentially stressful conditions, and managing time efficiently between various tasks like feeding, cleaning, and record-keeping. To manage these challenges, it's helpful to develop strong organizational skills, stay up to date on animal care guidelines, and communicate effectively with research staff and veterinarians. Regular training and working closely within the team can also help ensure both animal welfare and research integrity are maintained.

What is the difference between Animal Lab Assistant vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAnimal Lab AssistantVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate's degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentResearch laboratories, animal care facilitiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, pharmaceutical companiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Animal Lab Assistants primarily support research labs and animal care in laboratory settings, often with minimal formal credentials. Veterinary Technicians work in veterinary clinics or hospitals, requiring specialized education and certification. While both roles involve animal care, Veterinary Technicians typically have more advanced training and perform clinical procedures, whereas Animal Lab Assistants focus on supporting research activities.

What are popular job titles related to Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Animal Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Animal Lab Assistant job openings:

Animal Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Lab Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,383 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Lab Analyst

Certified Group

Aurora, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Certified Group is committed to partnering with customers to deliver innovative scientific solutions and expertise - So The World Can Trust In What It Consumes™. Our network of 30+ North American and European laboratories serves the food & beverage, dietary supplements, cosmetics, OTC, tobacco/nicotine, cannabis, and hemp industries.
Our Brands
Certified Group is comprised of a set of specialized brands that collectively deliver laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services across highly regulated industries:
  • Certified Laboratories - Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily supporting food, beverage, cosmetics, OTC, and dietary supplement industries.
  • Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food industry.
  • Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp, and next-generation products, with deep expertise in analytical chemistry and toxicology.
  • EAS Consulting Group - A regulatory consulting firm offering expert guidance, training, and auditing support across FDA, USDA, and other regulated sectors, powered by a large network of independent advisors.
  • FSNS Certification & Audit - Provides accredited third-party auditing and certification services, including food safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs.

Job Summary:
Perform analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmentals. The position performs the application and evaluation of approved microbiological techniques and methodologies.
Responsibilities:
  • Accurately perform and read test results and notify Laboratory Management of deviations
  • Prepare and analyze samples for indicator organisms, pathogens, and chemistries
  • Apply aseptic/microbiological techniques in daily workload
  • Report inventory and expendable supplies/materials needed for testing requirements
  • Provide routine preventive maintenance by daily cleaning, sanitizing, trash disposal, and equipment quality control
  • Assist in quality duties to by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms, running media controls, etc.
  • Pursue an assigned series of processes, procedures, or techniques in accordance with FSNS policies/procedures and customer requirements
  • Maintain a high degree of technical competence by reading scientific journals, attending professional workshops, and being aware of food industry issues and trends
  • Perform all activities in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient manner
  • Share information in an open and timely manner
  • Assisting with managing priorities and schedule such that individual goals as well as team goals are achieved with encouraged participation in the Food Safety Net Services Team
  • Responsible for the safety of oneself and others working within their area

Education & Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or related science field
  • 2 or more years of experience in a commercial food-testing or analytical laboratory
  • Or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Working knowledge of aseptic sampling technique, automated lab equipment, and acceptable methods and procedures
  • Familiarity with GLP, OSHA guidelines, FDA, BAM, APHA, ISO, and USP methods and procedures
  • Broad knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures of a food testing laboratory
  • Ability to travel when necessary

Physical Demands/Work Environment:
  • Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse and to handle other communications/computer components
  • Potential exposure to odors, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and microbiological pathogens
  • Noise level varies from quiet to loud
  • Temperature varies from hot to cold
  • Interactive and fast-paced team oriented tasks
  • Overnight Travel is required at the discretion of management
  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
  • Color vision and depth perception

By applying, you acknowledge that Certified Group will process your personal information for recruitment and hiring purposes in accordance with our Applicant Privacy Policy. California residents may review additional information about how we collect and use personal information, including retention and rights, in our California Notice at Collection. To view our Privacy Policy, click the link here: Certified Group Privacy Policy
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law.

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