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Associate Degree In Science Jobs in Plainfield, IL

Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology, or another science-related field * Associate degree or relevant laboratory coursework * Previous laboratory ...

The Science Teacher will work with middle school scholars in a small-group setting, leading ... Associate's degree required; bachelor's degree preferred. * Teaching certification is not required ...

Physical Therapist Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$28.75 - $38.25/hr

Graduate of an accredited physical therapy assistant program with either an Associate's degree in science or applied science that is approved by American Physical Therapy Association, Inc. * Current ...

Associate degree in a laboratory science (chemical or biological science) or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution or equivalent laboratory training and experience.

Bachelor's degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM), or a comparable area of study. * 2+ years of professional software development experience with object-oriented ...

We are seeking a Portfolio Strategy Associate to join our team. This role provides targeted ... Bachelor's degree in Science or Business discipline required. * 1-3 years of professional ...

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Associate Degree In Science information

See Plainfield, IL salary details

$18

$35

$55

How much do associate degree in science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate degree in science in Plainfield, IL is $35.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.16 and $39.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can you do with an associate degree in science?

An Associate Degree in Science provides foundational knowledge in scientific fields such as biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics. Graduates can pursue entry-level positions in healthcare, laboratory technology, environmental science, or technical support roles. Many students also use this degree as a stepping stone to transfer into a four-year university to complete a bachelor's degree in science or related fields. The degree offers flexibility, practical skills, and can lead to a variety of career or educational opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in roles requiring an associate degree in science?

To excel in positions requiring an Associate Degree in Science, you need a solid grounding in scientific principles, analytical thinking, and laboratory techniques, typically acquired through coursework in biology, chemistry, or related fields. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and safety protocols is often essential, along with any relevant certifications such as OSHA or lab safety training. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help individuals collaborate effectively and adapt to evolving tasks. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate data collection, safe laboratory practices, and valuable contributions to scientific or technical teams.

What types of entry-level roles are commonly available to candidates with an associate degree in science, and how can they position themselves for advancement?

With an Associate Degree in Science, graduates often find entry-level opportunities as laboratory technicians, research assistants, environmental science aides, or healthcare support staff. To position themselves for advancement, it's helpful to gain hands-on experience, pursue relevant certifications, and network with professionals in their chosen field. Many employers also offer tuition assistance or training programs, allowing employees to further their education or specialize in high-demand areas. Demonstrating initiative and a willingness to learn can lead to supervisory roles or support a transition into a bachelor's degree program for additional career options.

What is the difference between Associate Degree In Science vs Medical Assistant?

AspectAssociate Degree In ScienceMedical Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires 2-year college coursework in sciences and general educationUsually requires a postsecondary certificate or diploma, sometimes an associate degree
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research settings, educational institutionsClinics, hospitals, medical offices
Industry UsageEducational and research sectors, some healthcare rolesDirect patient care, administrative tasks in healthcare
Common Search IntentEducational pathways, career options, prerequisitesJob duties, certification requirements, salary info

The Associate Degree In Science provides a broad foundation in sciences and is often used for further education or research roles. In contrast, a Medical Assistant focuses on supporting healthcare providers with clinical and administrative tasks. While both roles are involved in healthcare, the Associate Degree In Science is more academic and research-oriented, whereas Medical Assistants work directly with patients in clinical settings.

How much can you make with an associate degree in science?

An associate degree in science can lead to entry-level positions such as laboratory technician, research assistant, or medical technician, with salaries typically ranging from $30,000 to $50,000 annually. Salaries vary based on industry, location, experience, and certifications, and some roles may require additional training or licensing.

What cities near Plainfield, IL are hiring for Associate Degree In Science jobs?

Cities near Plainfield, IL with the most Associate Degree In Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Degree In Science job openings in Plainfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,833 per year, or $35 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

The name Sotera Health was inspired by Soteria, the Greek goddess of safety, and reflects the Company's unwavering commitment to its mission, Safeguarding Global Health.

Sotera Health Company is a leading global provider of mission-critical sterilization and lab testing and advisory services for the healthcare industry. With a combined tenure across our businesses of nearly 200 years and our industry recognized scientific and technological expertise, we help to ensure the safety of millions of patients and healthcare practitioners around the world every year.

Across our 64 facilities worldwide, we have over 3,000 employees who are dedicated to safety and quality. We are a trusted partner to more than 5,800 customers in over 50 countries, including more than 40 of the top 50 medical device companies and 9 of the top 10 pharmaceutical companies.

The name Sotera Health was inspired by Soteria, the Greek goddess of safety, and reflects the Company's unwavering commitment to its mission, Safeguarding Global Health.

Sotera Health Company is a leading global provider of mission-critical sterilization and lab testing and advisory services for the healthcare industry. With a combined tenure across our businesses of nearly 200 years and our industry recognized scientific and technological expertise, we help to ensure the safety of millions of patients and healthcare practitioners around the world every year.

Across our 64 facilities worldwide, we have over 3,000 employees who are dedicated to safety and quality. We are a trusted partner to more than 5,800 customers in over 50 countries, including more than 40 of the top 50 medical device companies and 9 of the top 10 pharmaceutical companies.

Build Your Career in Laboratory Science

Are you interested in starting or growing a career in laboratory science, biotechnology, medical devices, or life sciences?

We are looking for motivated, detail-oriented individuals to join our laboratory team as a Laboratory Analyst. This is a great opportunity for recent graduates, early-career professionals, and individuals with a strong interest in science who want to gain hands-on experience in a regulated laboratory environment.

Prior professional laboratory experience is not required for all opportunities. We provide structured training to help you learn our procedures, quality standards, documentation practices, and testing processes.

As a Laboratory Analyst, you will contribute to testing that supports the safety and quality of medical devices and other healthcare products used around the world.

What You'll Do

As a Laboratory Analyst, you will receive training and work alongside experienced laboratory professionals. Depending on your assigned laboratory area, you may:

  • Perform laboratory testing according to established procedures and approved protocols

  • Support GLP, GMP, and/or other regulated testing activities

  • Prepare samples, materials, supplies, and media needed for testing

  • Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and other controlled laboratory instructions

  • Accurately document testing activities and results in real time

  • Maintain sample identification and traceability throughout the testing process

  • Identify and communicate unexpected results, deviations, or testing issues

  • Assist with controlled documents and laboratory records

  • Collaborate with Study Directors and other laboratory team members

  • Maintain an organized, safe, and quality-focused work environment

  • Participate in training and continuous improvement activities

What We're Looking For
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent

  • Are interested in science, laboratory work, healthcare, biotechnology, or medical devices

  • Can carefully follow written procedures and detailed instructions

  • Take pride in accuracy and attention to detail

  • Are comfortable performing structured or repetitive tasks while maintaining consistent quality

  • Are organized and able to complete work within established timelines

  • Have basic computer and math skills

  • Communicate effectively and work well as part of a team

  • Are comfortable asking questions and learning new processes

  • Demonstrate reliability, initiative, honesty, and integrity

Preferred, But Not Required
  • Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology, or another science-related field

  • Associate degree or relevant laboratory coursework

  • Previous laboratory, manufacturing, quality, healthcare, or other regulated-industry experience

  • Two years of qualified laboratory experience

We encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every preferred qualification. We are interested in candidates who are dependable, curious, detail-oriented, and motivated to learn.

What You'll Learn

This role offers the opportunity to build valuable experience in areas such as:

  • Hands-on laboratory testing

  • Good Laboratory Practice (GLP)

  • Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)

  • Good Documentation Practice (GDP)

  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

  • Quality systems and regulatory compliance

  • Sample traceability and data integrity

  • Problem-solving in a regulated laboratory environment

  • Cross-functional teamwork within the life sciences industry

Pay:

The hourly pay range for this position is $18.03 to $25.96. The starting rate for a successful candidate will be determined based on job-related qualifications, skills, experience, education, certifications, internal equity, and market conditions. While the full range reflects the potential earning opportunity for the role, new hires are typically placed within a portion of the range that is appropriate for their qualifications and experience.

Why Join Us?

With us your work contributes to a larger purpose: supporting the safety and quality of healthcare products used by patients around the world.

Whether you are beginning your career or looking to build additional laboratory experience, you will have the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, develop technical and regulatory skills, and explore career paths within a global life sciences organization.

If you are curious, dependable, detail-oriented, and ready to learn, we encourage you to apply.

Sotera Health goes to market through its three best-in-class businesses - Sterigenics, Nordion and Nelson Labs. Sterigenics is a leading global provider of outsourced terminal sterilization and irradiation services for the medical device, pharmaceutical, food safety and advanced applications markets. Nordion is the leading global provider of Co-60 and gamma irradiators, which are key components to the gamma sterilization process. Nelson Labs is a global leader in outsourced microbiological and analytical chemistry testing and advisory services for the medical device and pharmaceutical industries.

Sotera Health goes to market through its three best-in-class businesses - Sterigenics, Nordion and Nelson Labs. Sterigenics is a leading global provider of outsourced terminal sterilization and irradiation services for the medical device, pharmaceutical, food safety and advanced applications markets. Nordion is the leading global provider of Co-60 and gamma irradiators, which are key components to the gamma sterilization process. Nelson Labs is a global leader in outsourced microbiological and analytical chemistry testing and advisory services for the medical device and pharmaceutical industries.