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Associate Researcher Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Nourish

Research Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

About the Role As our first Research Associate, you will play a foundational role in building the operational infrastructure that makes Nourish's prospective clinical research possible -- owning the ...

Fermilab

Research Associate

Batavia, IL · On-site

$69K - $92K/yr

Under general direction and in consultation with more experienced scientists, the Research Associate, Quantum Division conducts research related to the overall mission of the Laboratory. Research may ...

Sralab

Research Associate II - NE

Chicago, IL

$29.71 - $49.42/hr

Summary The Research Associate II - NE conducts experimental studies in an SRAlab laboratory that requires deep technical expertise in a relevant discipline such as bioengineering, biology, or ...

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All JobsAssociate Researcher JobsAssociate Researcher Jobs in Chicago, IL

Associate Researcher information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$116.5K

$169.5K

How much do associate researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate researcher in Chicago, IL is $116,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $158,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest salary for a research associate?

The highest salaries for research associates can reach around $70,000 to $90,000 annually, typically in specialized fields or with extensive experience and advanced degrees. Salaries vary based on industry, location, and level of expertise, with some senior or industry-specific roles exceeding this range.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Researcher, you need a strong background in scientific methodology, data analysis, and a relevant bachelor's or master's degree in your field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software (like SPSS or R), and research management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication help you collaborate and contribute meaningful insights to research projects. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing valid, reliable results and advancing the goals of research teams.

What does an associate researcher do?

An associate researcher supports research projects by collecting and analyzing data, conducting experiments, and preparing reports. They often work under the supervision of senior researchers and may use tools like statistical software or laboratory equipment to assist in research activities.

What are some common challenges Associate Researchers face when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Associate Researchers often juggle several projects at once, which can be challenging in terms of time management and prioritization. Balancing deadlines, coordinating with various team members, and ensuring high-quality data collection and analysis requires strong organizational skills. Proactive communication with supervisors and collaborators is essential to manage expectations and address any bottlenecks early. Utilizing project management tools and regularly updating progress can help alleviate these challenges and keep research activities on track.

How much is a research associate paid?

Research associates typically earn between $45,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with advanced skills or in specialized fields can earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What are Associate Researchers?

Associate Researchers are professionals who assist in conducting scientific studies, experiments, or investigations in a specific field. They typically work under the supervision of a principal investigator or senior researcher, helping with data collection, analysis, and documentation. Their responsibilities can also include preparing laboratory materials, conducting literature reviews, and ensuring compliance with research protocols. Associate Researchers are often found in academic, government, or private sector research settings and may have a background in science, engineering, or social sciences.

Do I need a PhD to be a research associate?

A research associate position typically does not require a PhD; most roles require at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. However, some research roles or specialized projects may prefer or require a PhD or additional experience. Skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, or specific tools can also be important for the role.

What is the difference between Associate Researcher vs Research Assistant?

AspectAssociate ResearcherResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree, research experienceTypically Bachelor's degree, entry-level
Work EnvironmentIndependent research, data analysis, project managementSupporting research tasks, data collection
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, corporate R&DUniversities, labs, research projects

The main difference between an Associate Researcher and a Research Assistant lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Researchers usually have more research experience, handle independent tasks, and contribute to project design, while Research Assistants support data collection and basic tasks. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but Associate Researchers typically have higher qualifications and more autonomy.

What are the most commonly searched types of Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Associate Researcher jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Associate Researcher job openings:
Associate Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Researcher job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,511 per year, or $56 per hour.

Associate Research Electrical Engineer

Argonne National Laboratory

Lemont, IL

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Argonne National Laboratory is seeking to hire an Associate Research Electrical Engineer in the within the Grid Integration Technology group of the Transportation and Power Systems Division.

The successful candidate will lead and support research and development activities, with a focus on DC power distribution systems, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and grid-interactive energy technologies. The candidate will play a key role in developing, integrating, and evaluating advanced electrical power systems through modeling, laboratory experimentation, hardware integration, and field demonstrations.

Responsibilities include leading technical tasks involving DC electrical distribution architectures, battery energy storage systems, power conversion technologies, and grid-connected energy resources. The candidate will contribute to the design, implementation, and evaluation of advanced electrical infrastructure that improves efficiency, resilience, interoperability, and operational flexibility across a variety of applications, including transportation, buildings, industrial facilities, and data centers.

The successful candidate will serve as a primary technical interface with external partners, including government sponsors, industry collaborators, utilities, and equipment manufacturers-to develop innovative research solutions and ensure successful project execution.

Performance activities include designing and integrating laboratory testbeds; developing electrical system architecture; conducting experimental validation and system performance evaluations; analyzing electrical measurements and operational data; and contributing to project planning, technical documentation, publications, and proposal development. The candidate is expected to identify new research opportunities while supporting the laboratory's strategic initiatives in electrification, energy storage, and resilient power systems.

Position Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field with 5+ years of relevant experience; or Master's degree with 3+ years of relevant experience; or Ph.D. with 1+ years of relevant experience in electric vehicle systems, grid integration, or networked infrastructure.

  • Understanding of electrical power systems, including DC distribution architectures, power conversion equipment, and electrical protection principles.

  • Experience with battery energy storage systems (BESS), including battery technologies, battery management systems (BMS), power conversion systems (PCS), and system integration.

  • Working knowledge of power electronic converters, DC-DC converters, inverters, rectifiers, and associated control strategies.

  • Experience designing, integrating, and troubleshooting laboratory-scale or field-deployed electrical systems.

  • Familiarity with electrical modeling and simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, PSCAD, PLECS, ETAP, OpenDSS, or similar software.

  • Experience with electrical instrumentation and laboratory testing, including oscilloscopes, power analyzers, data acquisition systems, and programmable power supplies.

  • Knowledge of electrical communication protocols commonly used in energy systems (e.g., Modbus, CAN, Ethernet/IP, IEC 61850, DNP3, or OPC UA) is desirable.

  • Understanding grid integration concepts, including distributed energy resources (DERs), microgrids, flexible loads, demand response, or vehicle-grid integration (V2G), is highly desirable.

  • Familiarity with applicable electrical codes, standards, and safety practices related to medium- and low-voltage electrical systems

  • Ability to lead technical tasks and coordinate contributions from multidisciplinary research teams.

  • Experience designing and executing experimental research, analyzing electrical system performance, and documenting technical findings.

  • Ability to contribute to proposal development through technical writing, concept formulation, and identification of emerging research opportunities.

  • Ability to translate complex electrical engineering challenges into practical research solutions.

  • Strong organizational skills to manage multiple concurrent research projects while meeting technical and programmatic milestones.

  • Experience collaborating with government sponsors, utilities, manufacturers, universities, or industry partners.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical results to diverse audiences.

  • Demonstrated initiative, independence, and accountability in managing work streams.

  • Ability to mentor junior staff and contribute to team development.

  • Commitment to safety, security, and quality in all research operations.

  • Ability to model Argonne's Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

  • This position requires an on-site presence at the Argonne campus in Lemont, Illinois.

Job Family

Research Development (RD)

Job Profile

Electrical/Electronics Engineering 2

Worker Type

Regular

Time Type

Full timeThe expected hiring range for this position is $94,486.00 - $147,398.94.

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

Click here to view Argonne employee benefits!

As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.

Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.

All Argonne offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes an assessment of criminal conviction history conducted on an individualized and case-by-case basis. Please be advised that Argonne positions require upon hire (or may require in the future) for the individual be to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.

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