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Biologist Entry Level Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Using an entry level of skill, completes the following activities: * Molecular Biology and Biochemistry: * DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification & expression * Southern, Northern, Western ...

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Biologist Entry Level information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$38.1K

$92.1K

$142.2K

How much do biologist entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for biologist entry level in Chicago, IL is $92,099.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,300.00 and $124,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry-level biologist do?

An entry-level biologist typically assists with scientific research by collecting and analyzing data, conducting experiments, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They may work in fields such as ecology, microbiology, genetics, or environmental science. Their duties often include fieldwork, sample collection, data entry, and supporting senior scientists in ongoing projects. Entry-level biologists play a crucial role in advancing scientific understanding while gaining valuable hands-on experience.

What does an entry-level biologist do?

As an entry-level biologist, your duties and responsibilities vary depending on the setting in which you work. In a research setting, you study plants, animals, or other organisms to gain an understanding of their characteristics and how they interact with their habitats. You perform laboratory work, primarily if you study organisms at a microscopic level. Entry-level biology professionals also work in the field, especially when studying large-scale, or macroscopic, issues such as the environment. Some biologists work in research and development for companies, while others work for regulators and government agencies.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry-level biologist expect in their first year on the job?

As an entry-level biologist, you can expect to participate in a mix of laboratory work, data collection, and field studies depending on the organization. Typical responsibilities often include assisting with experiments, recording and analyzing results, maintaining lab equipment, and supporting senior scientists with ongoing research projects. Collaboration is common, as you'll work closely with other biologists, lab technicians, and sometimes professionals from related disciplines. Early projects are usually designed to help you build technical skills and gain familiarity with standard protocols, providing a strong foundation for career growth within the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry-level biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry-Level Biologist, you need a solid understanding of biological concepts, laboratory techniques, and a bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data analysis software such as Excel or R, and safety protocols is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate effectively and interpret scientific data. These abilities are essential for ensuring accurate research results and contributing to scientific projects in a team environment.

What is the difference between Biologist Entry Level vs Environmental Scientist Entry Level?

AspectBiologist Entry LevelEnvironmental Scientist Entry Level
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Biology or related fieldBachelor's in Environmental Science, Biology, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, field sitesFieldwork, laboratories, government agencies
Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech companies, academiaGovernment agencies, consulting firms, environmental organizations

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in a related field and involve fieldwork and research. While biologists focus more on biological research and lab work, environmental scientists often emphasize environmental impact assessments and policy-related tasks. The roles overlap in skills and work environments, but their specific focus areas differ slightly, making them common comparison choices for entry-level positions in biological and environmental fields.

What are the most commonly searched types of Biologist jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Biologist jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Biologist Entry Level jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Biologist Entry Level jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Biologist Entry Level jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Biologist Entry Level jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Biologist Entry Level jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Biologist Entry Level job openings:

Infographic showing various Biologist Entry Level job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,099 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

Research Biologics Technologist 1

Sralab

Chicago, IL • On-site

$17.05 - $29.62/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

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Job description

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is the global leader in physical medicine and rehabilitation for adults and children with the most severe, complex conditions. By joining our team, you'll be part of our life-changing mission and vision. You'll contribute to an innovative, multifaceted culture that is second to none - one that embraces collaboration, excellence, discovery and compassion. You'll play a role in something that's never been done before as we integrate science and clinical care to help patients achieve better, faster outcomes - as we Advance Human Ability, together.

Job Description Summary

The Research Biologics Technologist 1 will work in a team structure to support the development and implementation of the lab.
The Research Biologics Technologist 1 will consistently demonstrate support of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab statement of Vision, Mission and Core Values by striving for excellence, contributing to the team efforts and showing respect and compassion for patients and their families, fellow employees, and all others with whom there is contact at or in the interest of the institute.
The Research Biologics Technologist 1 will demonstrate Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Core Attributes: Communication, Accountability, Flexibility/Adaptability, Judgment/Problem Solving, Customer Service and Core Values (Hope, Compassion, Discovery, Collaboration, and Commitment to Excellence) while fulfilling job duties.

Job Description

Principal Responsibilities

Technical:

  • Follows pre-defined protocols, policies, procedure, regulations, Good Clinical & Good Laboratory Practices & conducts standard & repetitive experiments & completes basic trouble-shooting techniques.

  • Sets-up & operates & maintains standard lab equipment.

Administrative:

  • Records test results & may maintain databases and perform some basic statistical analyses.

  • Completes standard & routine clerical duties such as copying, filing, data entry, word processing, etc.

  • Maintains inventory of reagents, mice & lab supplies.

Skills:

Using an entry level of skill, completes the following activities:

  • Molecular Biology and Biochemistry:

    • DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification & expression

    • Southern, Northern, Western blotting

    • PCR, RT-PCR,

    • Plasmid preparation

    • Cloning, mapping & sequencing of DNA, single nucleotide polymorphisms detection

    • Recombinant virus production & purification

    • ELISA assays

    • HPLC

    • Mitochondria functional analysis (Oroboros)

  • Cellular Biology:

    • Cell isolation, cell culture and co-culture

    • Organoids culture

    • Functional studies

    • Transfection and transduction

    • Flow cytometry

  • Histology and Immunohistochemistry:

    • Tissue fixation/processing: embedding, preparation of blocks & sectioning, staining.

    • Immunohistochemistry

    • Microscopy

    • Tissue quantification

  • Animal:

    • Husbandry

    • Breeding & screening transgenic mice

    • Dissections

    • Blood collection

    • Surgical procedures

    • Database management of colony

    • Physical and cognitive functional assays

  • Organ and Tissue Physiology:

    • Making physiological solutions

    • Tissue Dissection

    • In vitro physiological assays

    • Electronic Equipment Calibration and Use

Completes other duties as assigned.

Reporting Relationships

Reports directly to the assigned Principal Investigator

Qualifications & Abilities Required

  • High School diploma or equivalent and some basic science courses is required. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

  • Strong interpersonal and organizational skills needed to participate as a creative member of a research team.

  • Ability to exchange ideas and to work closely with clinicians, physical and occupational therapists, patients and professional organizations.

  • Ability to timely plan and to coordinate project completions.

Working Conditions

  • Laboratory-based position with substantial time spent conducting experiments at the bench.

  • Office setting for data analysis, writing, and administrative tasks.

  • Need for protective gear, such as lab coats, gloves, and safety glasses, depending on the experimental procedures and hazards involved.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

Pay and Benefits*:

Pay Range:

$17.05 - $29.62

Benefits:

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab offers a comprehensive benefits program that is competitive with our industry peers in our geographic locations:https://www.sralab.org/benefits

*Benefits and benefits' eligibility can vary by position. Actual compensation will be determined by equity and qualifications of the role.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunity without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, order of protection status, unfavorable discharge from military service, or any other characteristics protected by law.

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Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an Affirmative Action Employer as required by law.