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Associate Degree Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Associate Degree information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do associate degree jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate degree in Springfield, IL is $19.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $20.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Associate Degree vs Medical Assistant?

AspectAssociate DegreeMedical Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically requires 2-year college coursework, including general education and major-specific classesUsually requires a postsecondary certificate or diploma, sometimes an associate degree, with certification preferred
Work EnvironmentVaries widely; can include healthcare, business, technology, depending on majorPrimarily in healthcare settings such as clinics, hospitals, and physicians' offices
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across multiple industries; not specific to healthcarePrimarily employed in healthcare as clinical or administrative support staff

While an Associate Degree offers broader educational options across various fields, a Medical Assistant program focuses specifically on healthcare support roles. Medical Assistants often pursue certification to enhance job prospects, whereas an Associate Degree provides foundational knowledge for diverse careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Degree holder in the workforce, and why are they important?

To thrive with an Associate Degree, you need foundational knowledge in your chosen field, practical problem-solving abilities, and the credential itself. Familiarity with industry-specific software, technical tools, or certifications—such as Microsoft Office for business or CompTIA A+ for IT—can enhance your qualifications. Strong communication, teamwork, and time management skills help you stand out and adapt to diverse workplace environments. These competencies are essential to demonstrate readiness for entry-level roles, support career advancement, and contribute effectively to organizational goals.

What kind of job can an associate degree get?

An associate degree can qualify individuals for entry-level positions in fields such as healthcare, technology, business, and skilled trades. Common jobs include administrative assistant, dental assistant, pharmacy technician, IT support specialist, and customer service representative. These roles often require specific technical skills and may benefit from certifications or on-the-job training.

What are associate degrees?

Associate degrees are undergraduate academic programs that typically take about two years to complete at a community college, technical school, or some universities. They provide foundational knowledge and skills in a specific field, preparing students for entry-level jobs or further education. Many students use an associate degree as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree, while others enter the workforce directly after graduation. Common types include Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), and Associate of Applied Science (AAS).

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

Graduates with an associate degree often find entry-level opportunities in fields such as healthcare (e.g., medical assistant, radiologic technologist), information technology (e.g., support specialist), business administration, and skilled trades. To position themselves for advancement, candidates should gain hands-on experience, seek industry certifications, and actively participate in professional development opportunities. Networking with colleagues, seeking mentorship, and demonstrating a strong work ethic can also help associate degree holders move into supervisory or specialized roles over time.

What associate's degree pays the most?

Associate degree holders in fields such as nursing (e.g., Registered Nurse), dental hygiene, or radiation therapy tend to earn the highest salaries. These roles often require specialized skills and certifications, and salaries can vary based on location and experience.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

High-paying jobs that can reach $4,000 a week without a degree often include roles such as commercial truck drivers, sales managers, real estate brokers, and skilled trades like electricians or plumbers. These positions typically require specialized training, certifications, or experience, and may involve working long hours or in high-demand environments.

What can you do if you have an associate's degree?

An associate's degree qualifies individuals for entry-level positions in fields such as healthcare, technology, business, and skilled trades. Common roles include administrative assistant, dental assistant, IT support specialist, and technician, often requiring technical skills and certifications. It can also serve as a stepping stone to further education or career advancement.
What are popular job titles related to Associate Degree jobs in Springfield, IL? For Associate Degree jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Degree jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Degree jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Associate Degree jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Associate Degree job openings:
Medical Laboratory Tech PRN (Shift Variable)

Medical Laboratory Tech PRN (Shift Variable)

Southern Illinois Healthcare

Springfield, IL • On-site

$28.80 - $44.64/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Southern Illinois Healthcare rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

MLT I Requirements

Position Summary

• Responsible for collecting, processing, and testing patient specimens for the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Principal Accountabilities

  • Standards of Performance: Respect, Integrity, Compassion, Collaboration, Stewardship, Accountability, Quality

Education

  • Associate degree in applied science in Medical Laboratory Technology

Licenses and Certification

  • Eligible to sit for MLT (ASCP) or equivalent.

Experience and Skills

  • Technical Experience: N/A

Physical Activities

  • Intermittent hand manipulation required.
  • Intermittent lifting and carrying of 50 pounds.

Role Specific Responsibilities

  • Perform routine waived, moderately, and high complex testing.
  • Collects, Processes and Receives specimens (including blood, urine, fecal, body fluid) to be analyzed in all departments of the clinical laboratory (listed above).
  • Evaluates and solves problems related to collection and processing of biological specimens of analysis of all age ranges.
  • Prepare samples for testing and send out to reference laboratories
  • Maintain laboratory equipment and stock supplies.
  • Performs complex laboratory procedures; recognizes deviation from expected results; analyzes and corrects problems using scientific principles under direct supervision per CLIA requirements.
  • Analyzes quality control data, makes judgments concerning results and takes appropriate action to maintain accuracy and precision under direct supervision per CLIA requirements.
  • Assist in troubleshooting and instrument maintenance.
  • Participate in training programs.

Wage Range MLT I - $19.02-$28.53

MLT II Requirements

Education

  • Associate degree in applied science in Medical Laboratory Technology

Licenses and Certification

  • MLT (ASCP) or equivalent.

Experience and Skills

  • Technical Experience: N/A

Wage Range MLT II- $23.19-$35.94

MLT III Requirements

Education

  • Associate degree in applied science in Medical Laboratory Technology

Licenses and Certification

  • MLT (ASCP) or equivalent.

Experience and Skills

  • Technical Experience: 3 years in clinical laboratory

MLT III Wage Range - $24.12-$37.39

MLS I Requirements

Education

  • Bachelor's degree (or Associates Degree for grandfathered personnel)

Licenses and Certification

  • N/A

Experience and Skills

  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills
  • Technical Experience: 1 year in a lab setting preferred.

MLS I Wage Range - $22.74-$35.29

MLS II Requirements

Education

  • Bachelor's degree (or associate's degree for grandfathered personnel)

Licenses and Certification

  • MLS (ASCP) or equivalent certification required

Experience and Skills

  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
  • Technical Experience: 1 year in a lab setting required

MLS II Wage Range - $27.69-$42.92

MLS III Requirements

Education

  • Bachelor's degree (or Associates Degree for grandfathered personnel)

Licenses and Certification

  • MLS (ASCP) or equivalent certification required

Experience and Skills

  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
  • Technical Experience: 3 years of clinical laboratory experience.

MLS III Wage Range - $28.80-$44.64

Compensation (Commensurate with experience):

$19.02 - $44.64


What Southern Illinois Healthcare employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Southern Illinois Healthcare logo

About Southern Illinois Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Your Career. Our Company. Together, We Grow. At Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH), we realize that in order to provide our surrounding communities with excellent care, we must begin by providing our employees with that same care and appreciation. We offer rich opportunities to develop and grow professionally, an environment of excellence in patient care, and the awareness that everything we accomplish is a direct outgrowth of the superb efforts and dedication of our employees. As a non-profit system of almost 4000 employees, we have won national acclaim for our cancer, cardiac, stroke, bariatric, breast imaging, and rehabilitation services.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carbondale, IL, US

Year founded

1938