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Associate Scientist Jobs in Wheeling, IL (NOW HIRING)

Purpose AbbVie's Product Development Science & Technology group is seeking an Associate Scientist level Process Chemist to conduct late-stage chemical process development, support projects from late ...

Purpose AbbVie's Product Development Science & Technology group is seeking an Associate Scientist level Process Chemist to conduct late-stage chemical process development, support projects from late ...

Using strong scientific and organizational skills, and hands-on experience with in vitro model development and use, the successful candidate is expected to impact risk assessment for novel ...

Using strong scientific and organizational skills, and hands-on experience with in vitro model development and use, the successful candidate is expected to impact risk assessment for novel ...

Using strong scientific and organizational skills, and hands-on experience with in vitro model development and use, the successful candidate is expected to impact risk assessment for novel ...

As an Associate Data Scientist, you will be a core member of a high-performance team of data engineers and architects focusing on driving technology innovation and continuous improvement. This role ...

As an Associate Data Scientist, you will be a core member of a high-performance team of data engineers and architects focusing on driving technology innovation and continuous improvement. This role ...

Associate Scientist, Data II

North Chicago, IL · On-site

$56K - $57K/yr

As an Associate Data Scientist, you will be a core member of a high-performance team of data engineers and architects focusing on driving technology innovation and continuous improvement. This role ...

AbbVie Information Research is seeking an Associate Data Scientist with focus on Knowledge Graph Engineering to design, build, and maintain the semantic data infrastructure that connects information ...

AbbVie Information Research is seeking an Associate Data Scientist with focus on Knowledge Graph Engineering to design, build, and maintain the semantic data infrastructure that connects information ...

AbbVie Information Research is seeking an Associate Data Scientist with focus on Knowledge Graph Engineering to design, build, and maintain the semantic data infrastructure that connects information ...

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Associate Scientist information

See Wheeling, IL salary details

$19

$37

$59

How much do associate scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate scientist in Wheeling, IL is $37.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.89 and $42.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate scientist do?

An Associate Scientist is a professional who supports research and development projects, typically in fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or environmental science. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and document results under the supervision of senior scientists. Associate Scientists play a key role in advancing scientific knowledge and product development by performing laboratory tasks, maintaining equipment, and following established protocols. Their work contributes to discoveries, quality control, and regulatory compliance within their organization.

What is an associate scientist?

An associate scientist takes on more responsibilities than an assistant scientist, supporting research and each experiment under the lead scientist, often in a laboratory environment. As an associate scientist, there are many industries you can work in, including the research field where the lead scientist oversees your project, and you help author papers. Many pharmaceutical companies hire associate scientists to analyze samples to develop drugs and assist with preclinical and clinical studies. Private companies need you to produce specialty chemicals for their clients. Materials scientists at the associate level conduct research and test the properties of metals, plastics, and other materials for their use in new products and packaging. Some positions have duties that include training other team members and overseeing students and fellows.

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

To thrive as an Associate Scientist, you generally need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant scientific field, along with strong analytical and laboratory skills. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), data analysis software, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills that distinguish top performers. These skills ensure accurate data collection, reliable experimental outcomes, and productive collaboration within research or product development teams.

What are some common challenges an associate scientist might face when transitioning from academia to industry?

Associate Scientists moving from academia to industry often encounter challenges such as adapting to a faster-paced environment and focusing on project-driven outcomes rather than open-ended research. In industry, there is a stronger emphasis on teamwork, meeting strict deadlines, and following standardized protocols. Adjusting to these expectations, learning new technologies, and effectively communicating results to cross-functional teams are key areas where new hires may need support.

What is the difference between Associate Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectAssociate ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field; some roles may require a PhDTypically a Master's or PhD in a related discipline
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industry settingsResearch labs, academic institutions, industry
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, governmentBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, government
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level or mid-level research rolesAdvanced research roles, career progression

Associate Scientists and Research Scientists often work in similar environments within biotech, pharma, or academic sectors. The main difference lies in experience and educational requirements, with Research Scientists typically holding higher degrees and engaging in more independent or advanced research. Both roles are essential for scientific progress, but Research Scientists usually have more responsibility and autonomy in their projects.

Is an associate scientist entry level?

An associate scientist position is often considered an entry-level or early-career role in research and development, typically requiring a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. It involves performing experiments, data analysis, and supporting scientific projects, with opportunities for skill development and advancement. However, some organizations may require prior experience or specific certifications depending on the complexity of the work.

What degree do you need to be an associate scientist?

An associate scientist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with laboratory skills and experience with scientific tools and techniques.

What are popular job titles related to Associate Scientist jobs in Wheeling, IL?

For Associate Scientist jobs in Wheeling, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Wheeling, IL are hiring for Associate Scientist jobs?

Cities near Wheeling, IL with the most Associate Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Scientist job openings in Wheeling, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,367 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Associate Scientist, Chemistry

North Chicago, IL • On-site


AbbVie
Scientific Research and Development Services • 10K+ employees

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 102 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 86 rated pharmaceutical

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Company Description

About AbbVie
AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas including immunology, oncology and neuroscience - and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Job Description

Purpose
AbbVie's Product Development Science & Technology group is seeking an Associate Scientist level Process Chemist to conduct late-stage chemical process development, support projects from late clinical development through commercialization and throughout the product lifecycle.  The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated scientist, with a proven track record of accomplishment in the field of organic synthesis, to work in a multi-functional team environment.

  • The candidate will be responsible for developing organic chemistry processes and executing on scale to provide practical access to potential therapies, which may include small molecules and/or antibody drug conjugates.
  • The candidate will support the development and oversight of process chemistry and manufacturing controls at commercial sites.
  • The position involves multi-disciplinary interactions with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional collaborators involved in bringing therapies to market. 

Responsibilities

  • Perform independent experimentation to generate reliable and consistent data.
  • Use data analysis to guide future work.
  • Troubleshoot experiments and instrumentation.
  • Learn and understand new experimental techniques.
  • Ability to impact projects through lab and manufacturing plant-based activities.
  • Provide support to manufacturing facilities during commercial production
  • Present technical topics to cross-functional stakeholders
  • Understand and adhere to corporate standards regarding code of conduct, safety, appropriate handling of materials, controlled drug and radioactive compounds, GxP compliance, and animal care where applicable.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree, or equivalent education, with typically 3 or more years' experience or Master's Degree or equivalent education (no additional experience).
  • A range of functional expertise in modern synthetic organic chemistry, compound purification, spectral analysis and interpretation.
  • An ability to problem solve using lab and literature-based resources.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Key Leadership Competencies:

  • Builds strong relationships with peers and cross functionally with partners outside of team to enable higher performance.
  • Learns fast, understands key objectives, and can change course quickly where indicated.
  • Raises the bar and is never satisfied with the status quo.
  • Creates a learning environment, open to suggestions and experimentation for improvement.
  • Embraces the ideas of others, nurtures innovation, and manages the transition from innovation to implementation.
  • Adheres to corporate standards regarding code of conduct, safety, quality, and appropriate handling of materials.
Additional Information

Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law: 

  • The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this role at the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on many factors including geographic location, and we may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range. This range may be modified in the future. 
  • We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.
  • This job is eligible to participate in our short-term incentive programs. 

Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable. The amount and availability of  any bonus, commission, incentive, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole and absolute discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Company's sole and absolute discretion, consistent with applicable law. 

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. 

US & Puerto Rico only - to learn more, visit https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/equal-employment-opportunity-employer.html

US & Puerto Rico applicants seeking a reasonable accommodation, click here to learn more:

https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/reasonable-accommodations.html


AbbVie logo

About AbbVie

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas: immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, virology, women's health, and gastroenterology, in addition to products and services across its Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

North Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

2013


What AbbVie employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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