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Cell Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Symbotic

Cell Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $19.25/hr

What we need Symbotic is seeking a Cell Operator; you will be responsible for system upkeep and ... Associate degree or equivalent experience or certification in electronics, automotive, automation ...

Symbotic

Cell Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $19.25/hr

What we need Symbotic is seeking a Cell Operator; you will be responsible for system upkeep and ... Associate degree or equivalent experience or certification in electronics, automotive, automation ...

Symbotic

Cell Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $19.25/hr

What we need Symbotic is seeking a Cell Operator; you will be responsible for system upkeep and ... Associate degree or equivalent experience or certification in electronics, automotive, automation ...

Symbotic

Cell Operator

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

What we need Symbotic is seeking a Cell Operator; you will be responsible for system upkeep and ... Associate degree or equivalent experience or certification in electronics, automotive, automation ...

Nemera

Cell Leader (APU 2-B)

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Responsible for Kanban system associate with work cell to insure materials are properly staged. * Perform Scale set-up and operation of scales. * Complete cycle checklist. * Complete LRPs, including ...

Nemera

Cell Leader (APU 3 C)

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Responsible for Kanban system associate with work cell to insure materials are properly staged. * Perform Scale set-up and operation of scales. * Complete cycle checklist. * Complete LRPs, including ...

Nemera

Cell Leader (APU 3 C)

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Responsible for Kanban system associate with work cell to insure materials are properly staged. * Perform Scale set-up and operation of scales. * Complete cycle checklist. * Complete LRPs, including ...

Nemera

Cell Leader (APU 4-C)

Vernon Hills, IL

Responsible for Kanban system associate with work cell to insure materials are properly staged. * Perform Scale set-up and operation of scales. * Complete cycle checklist. * Complete LRPs, including ...

Nemera

Cell Leader (APU 2-B)

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Responsible for Kanban system associate with work cell to insure materials are properly staged. * Perform Scale set-up and operation of scales. * Complete cycle checklist. * Complete LRPs, including ...

Nemera

Cell Leader (APU 4-C)

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Responsible for Kanban system associate with work cell to insure materials are properly staged. * Perform Scale set-up and operation of scales. * Complete cycle checklist. * Complete LRPs, including ...

Nemera

Cell Leader (APU 4-C)

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Responsible for Kanban system associate with work cell to insure materials are properly staged. * Perform Scale set-up and operation of scales. * Complete cycle checklist. * Complete LRPs, including ...

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Cell Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do cell associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for cell associate in Chicago, IL is $16.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cell associate?

Cell Associates are professionals who typically work in manufacturing or laboratory environments, assisting in the production, assembly, or quality control of products, often within a 'cell' or designated work area. Their responsibilities can include operating machinery, inspecting materials, following safety protocols, and maintaining documentation. This role often requires attention to detail, the ability to follow standard operating procedures, and good teamwork skills. Cell Associates play a key part in ensuring that production lines run smoothly and efficiently while maintaining product quality.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a cell associate in a manufacturing environment?

A Cell Associate typically works within a production cell, focusing on assembling, inspecting, and packaging products according to standardized procedures. Daily responsibilities often include setting up workstations, operating machinery, maintaining quality control, and collaborating with team members to achieve production targets. Cell Associates are also expected to follow safety protocols, report equipment issues, and participate in continuous improvement initiatives. The role requires attention to detail, adaptability to changing priorities, and effective communication within a team-oriented environment.

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

To thrive as a Cell Associate, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with production equipment, quality control systems, and safety protocols is typically required, with additional training or certifications in lean manufacturing or Six Sigma being advantageous. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining production efficiency, ensuring product quality, and supporting a safe and collaborative work environment.

What is the difference between Cell Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectCell AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certification in cell culture techniquesHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires technical certification or associate degree
Work EnvironmentBiotech or pharmaceutical labs, focusing on cell culture and sample preparationGeneral laboratory settings, performing tests and sample analysis across various fields
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceutical, research institutionsHealthcare, research, manufacturing, and testing labs

While both roles involve laboratory work, a Cell Associate primarily focuses on cell culture and biological sample preparation within biotech and pharmaceutical settings. A Laboratory Technician has a broader scope, performing various tests and analyses across multiple industries. The roles often require similar certifications but differ in specific technical skills and daily tasks.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Cell Associate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Cell Associate job openings:

Cell Associate jobs near you

Cell Operator

Joliet, IL • On-site

Symbotic
Computer and Computer Peripheral Equipment and Software Wholesalers • 51 - 200 employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

185th of 246 rated software companies

Good employer

Respectful managers

Uninterrupted breaks

Learn more about Symboticexternal

$17.50 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Who we are
With its A.I.-powered robotic technology platform, Symbotic is changing the way consumer goods move through the supply chain. Intelligent software orchestrates advanced robots in a high-density, end-to-end system - reinventing warehouse automation for increased efficiency, speed and flexibility.
What we need
Symbotic is seeking a Cell Operator; you will be responsible for system upkeep and operations of automated adapters used to interface with the Symbotic structure. You will be responsible for assisting with system readiness to achieve performance targets as defined by leadership. You will also be responsible for utilizing Human/Machine Interface terminals to effectively operate equipment.
What we do
The Cell Operator is part of the Customer Operations organization which is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of Symbotic's robotic material handling system. The Customer Operations organization drives operational excellence by engaging and partnering with our onsite customers to drive best-in-class quality, safety and system performance.
What you'll do
  • Perform pre-production checks on automated adapters ensuring equipment is in 'ready to run' state.

  • Process and monitor the flow of the automated storage and retrieval system, through means of the adapters, including manual inbound, automatic inbound, automatic outbound, to achieve maximum throughput and cases per hour.

  • Prepare pallets for induction into the Symbotic storage and retrieval system.

  • Assess cause of system stoppage and return to service using Human/Machine Interface (HMI) and manual intervention.

  • Communicate and escalate all issues impacting production immediately to operational leadership.

  • Contribute to overall system uptime through system preservation, robot recovery, suspect removal, and bot health actions.

  • Perform periodic system inspections including cleaning, lubrication, tolerance checking, component validation.

  • Report all out of spec conditions and perform root cause corrective action and maintain continuous operation of system components.

  • Monitor and utilize common radio etiquette while obtaining instructions from leadership and operational leads.

  • Perform rover bot upkeep to include, but not limited to, replacing wheels, cleaning, ESD brushes, sensors, etc.

  • Responsible for automated robotic vehicle recovery in the Symbotic Matrix select system to include working in restrictive environments.

  • Other duties as assigned by leadership.

What you'll need
  • Associate degree or equivalent experience or certification in electronics, automotive, automation, manufacturing or equivalent field preferred.

  • A minimum of 1 year of experience with mechanical automation systems, educational or training equivalent.

  • Be proficient in performing all System Inspection functions including cleaning, lubrication, tolerance checking, current measurements, and checking electrical systems.

  • Ability to prioritize work to gain maximum uptime and throughput from an automated cell.

  • Demonstrates commitment and ability to work safely.

  • Ability to work independently of supervisor following procedures and manuals.

  • Ability to multi-task and perform multiple job functions at once.

Our Environment
  • There will be steep stairs to climb into the structure.

  • You will regularly be near railings that are high off the ground.

  • Subject to environmental conditions, protection from weather conditions but not necessarily temperature changes. Must be capable of working in temperatures ranging from 105° to 32° Fahrenheit.

  • If the site location is in construction, you will be required to wear proper PPE (hard hat, safety vest, steel toes, eyeglasses, ear protection, fall protection (e.g., safety harness).

  • Frequent ability to safely and efficiently lift items weighing up to 50lbs and move items weighing up to 80lbs.

  • Stand/walk for up to 10-12 hours and is frequently required to walk and reach with hands and arms.

  • The employee is routinely required to work at heights of up to 45 feet and within restrictive areas of 24 inches. to stand; climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.

  • Must be capable of occasional and/or continuous feeling, seeing, hearing, bending, twisting, stooping, pushing, pulling, balancing, gripping, climbing, crawling, sitting, handling objects, and repetitive movement using both hands and feet. Must comply with all safety requirements and protocols, including without limitation Lock out tag out safety protocols and fall protection safety protocols.

#LI-Onsite
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About Symbotic
Symbotic is an automation technology leader reimagining the supply chain with its end-to-end, AI-powered robotic and software platform. Symbotic reinvents the warehouse as a strategic asset for the world's largest retail, wholesale, and food & beverage companies. Applying next-gen technology, high-density storage and machine learning to solve today's complex distribution challenges, Symbotic enables companies to move goods with unmatched speed, agility, accuracy and efficiency. As the backbone of commerce the Symbotic platform transforms the flow of goods and the economics of supply chain for its customers. For more information, visit www.symbotic.com.
We are a community of innovators, collaborators and pioneers who embrace our differences, because we know unique perspectives make us stronger and smarter. Every perspective matters. We depend on the collective voices of our employees, customers and community to help guide us as we build a better place to work - for you and the world. That's why we're proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
We do not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or genetic information.
The base range for this position in the posted location is $22.00 - $22.00 however, base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The compensation package includes medical, dental, vision, disability, 401K, PTO and/or other benefits.

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