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Compounding Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Visual Pak Companies

Pre-weigh Associate

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $22/hr

Pre-weigh Associate Participates and supports the compounding activities of the organization by providing pre-weigh actions as outlined by work orders. Direct Reports Individual Contributor Position ...

The Visual Pak Companies

Chemical Operator

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Compounding Associate Compounder possessing a flexible skill set including manufacturing quality batches, providing support for the supervisor functions, and directing other preweighers, preps, and ...

THE VISUAL PAK COMPANIES

Pre-weigh Associate

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $22/hr

Pre-weigh Associate Participates and supports the compounding activities of the organization by providing pre-weigh actions as outlined by work orders. Direct Reports Individual Contributor Position ...

THE VISUAL PAK COMPANIES

Chemical Operator

Waukegan, IL

$20 - $35/hr

Compounding Associate Compounder possessing a flexible skill set including manufacturing quality batches, providing support for the supervisor functions, and directing other preweighers, preps, and ...

THE VISUAL PAK COMPANIES

Compounding prep

Waukegan, IL

$15 - $16.50/hr

Warehouse Associate Warehouse Associates will work on a fast passed and complex filling and packaging assembly line. Your work assignment may change daily to include tasks such as packing line ...

The Visual Pak Companies

Compounding prep

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

Warehouse Associate Warehouse Associates will work on a fast passed and complex filling and packaging assembly line. Your work assignment may change daily to include tasks such as packing line ...

National Veterinary Associates

Veterinarian

Geneva, IL · On-site

Associate Veterinarian Valley Animal Hospital - Geneva, IL Valley Animal Hospital is growing, and ... Expansive in-house pharmacy plus online and compounding options for clients Compensation & Benefits ...

RML Specialty Hospital

Pharmacy Tech

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.36 - $27.11/hr

Banking Alternatives (e.g. HealthCare Associates Credit Union) PTO: Employees can accrue up to 26 ... Compounding hazardous drug stock bottle suspension * Prime IV tubing * Performs non-sterile ...

NVA

Veterinarian

Geneva, IL · On-site

Associate Veterinarian Valley Animal Hospital - Geneva, IL Valley Animal Hospital is growing, and ... Expansive in-house pharmacy plus online and compounding options for clients Compensation & Benefits ...

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Compounding Associate information

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How much do compounding associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for compounding associate in Chicago, IL is $21.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Compounding Associate, you need a solid understanding of pharmaceutical formulations, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with compounding equipment, safety protocols, and software such as inventory or batch record systems is essential. Strong organizational skills, precision, and teamwork are important soft skills that set candidates apart. These competencies ensure the safe, accurate preparation of medications and compliance with regulatory standards in a pharmacy or manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Compounding Associate vs Pharmacy Technician?

AspectCompounding AssociatePharmacy Technician
CertificationsOften requires pharmacy or compounding-specific certificationsCertified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) commonly preferred
Work EnvironmentSpecialized compounding labs or pharmaciesRetail or hospital pharmacy settings
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing customized medications through compoundingDispensing medications, managing prescriptions, customer service

While both roles work within pharmacy settings, a Compounding Associate specializes in preparing customized medications through compounding, requiring specific skills and certifications. A Pharmacy Technician handles broader pharmacy duties, including dispensing and customer interaction. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some common challenges faced by Compounding Associates, and how can they be managed?

Compounding Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to safety and quality protocols, managing time efficiently during batch preparations, and accurately following complex formulations. Working in sterile or controlled environments can also require careful attention to detail and proper use of personal protective equipment. These challenges can be managed through thorough training, clear communication with team members, and routinely reviewing standard operating procedures to ensure compliance and minimize errors.

How much do pharmaceutical compounders make?

Pharmaceutical compounders, or compounding associates, typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certification levels. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, certifications, and working in high-demand environments such as hospitals or compounding pharmacies.

What's the highest paid pharmacy technician?

The highest paid pharmacy technicians typically work in specialized settings such as nuclear pharmacy or in roles requiring advanced certifications, earning salaries above $50,000 annually. Factors like experience, location, and additional certifications can influence salary levels for pharmacy technicians.

What are Compounding Associates?

Compounding Associates are professionals who prepare customized medications by mixing, combining, or altering ingredients according to prescriptions or specifications, typically in a pharmacy or manufacturing environment. They work under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist and ensure that compounded products meet quality and safety standards. Their duties may include measuring ingredients, operating specialized equipment, maintaining clean workspaces, and accurately documenting each batch. Compounding Associates play a critical role in providing patients with medications tailored to their unique needs when commercially available drugs are not suitable.

Can I get a job at a pharmacy with no experience?

Compounding Associate positions at pharmacies often require some knowledge of pharmacy operations and compounding techniques, but many entry-level roles are available to candidates without prior experience. Employers may provide on-the-job training and may require certification or coursework in pharmacy technology or compounding. Having attention to detail, good communication skills, and the ability to follow safety protocols are important for success in this role.

What is the highest paid job in pharmacy?

In pharmacy, the highest paid roles are often pharmacy managers, clinical pharmacy directors, or specialized consultants, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and leadership skills within healthcare or pharmaceutical settings.
What are the most commonly searched types of Compounding jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Compounding jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Compounding Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Compounding Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,648 per year, or $21.5 per hour.
Compounding Associate

Compounding Associate

The Visual Pak Companies

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Join the PAK
The Visual Pak Companies are aligned with many of the largest consumer product companies in the household, personal care, automotive and food product industries.
30 years of consistent growth with no end in sight is a testament to our best in class workforce as the foundation for our collective success. The Visual Pak is looking for innovative and dedicated achievers who are encouraged to keep a healthy work/life balance to join our team.
Compounding Associate
Compounder possessing a flexible skill set including manufacturing quality batches, providing support for the supervisor functions, and directing other preweighers, preps, and janitors.
Direct Reports
Individual contributor
Position Responsibilities-Tasks-Deliverables
An individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each essential duty listed below. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
All duties as assigned and the following specific activities.
  • Follow Hazardous Material and Handling Procedures and go through Initial and Annual Training.
  • Able to perform the fundamental skills of blending and transferring heated batches in multi-phased tanks in accordance with manufacturing instructions, SOPs, and GMPs.
  • Demonstrated ability to blend both heated and cooled batches, as well as emulsified batches.
  • Performs related duties and projects as assigned by management.
  • Works directly with the Compounding Coordinator to establish and implement all directives in a positive and professional manner for compounding and production.
  • Safely loads and unloads tankers, totes, and drums to holding tanks for production.
  • Observes pressure gauges and flow meters, and adjusts valves to regulate speed of pumps and control pressure and rate of flow of materials.
  • Maintains pumps and lines by replacing filters and gaskets, tightening connections, and adjusting pumps.
  • Assists in weighing out specified types and quantities of raw materials using manual scales, according to formulas.
  • Collects samples of rinse water and material for lab analysis.
  • Records product temperature, quantities and/or levels in storage tanks.
  • Utilizes strong attention to detail when conducting inventory of raw materials and storage tanks.
  • Maintains cleanliness and sanitation of all mixing and storage tanks in accordance with all company SOP's.
  • Demonstrates efficient time management skills to complete required batch documentation records on time.
  • Follows 5S and safety policies and procedures.
  • Help train new compounding associates.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
  • Number of blends transferred per shift
  • Length of time for cleaning and sanitizing tanks
  • Blends transferred on time for production

Benefits:
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life & AD&D Insurance
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) match
  • Pet Insurance
  • Paid time-off
  • Paid holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Dependent Care Subsidy
  • Childcare Resources
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Disability Insurance
  • Employee Discounts

Knowledge-Skills-Abilities
Education:
  • High School Diploma or GED- required
  • Associate degree in relevant topic-preferred

Experience:
  • 3 - 5 years' experience blending and mixing raw materials in a manufacturing setting.
  • Ability to comprehend GMPs, SOPs and identify compliance and non-compliance with same.
  • Basic mathematical skills, and experience with metric system.
  • Basic knowledge of operating air pumps, electric pumps, and mills
  • Prior experience operating a forklift in a manufacturing setting

Technology/Software:
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel
  • Experience with an ERP system in a manufacturing environment a plus

Communication:
  • Solid English reading/comprehension skills required to understand detailed SOP, formula and Manufacturing Instructions.

Physical Capabilities
  • Must be able to adapt to temperature and environmental extremes such as hot to cold, dust dirt and chemicals.
  • Must be able to pass respirator fit test per OSHA guidelines.

Strength (lifting, dexterity, repetitive motion):
  • Able to lift 50 lbs.

Movement (standing, stopping, sitting, crouching, crawling):
  • May be required to work in full-body protective wear for sustained periods while handling hazardous materials.
  • Ability to maintain a high level of physical activity.

Hearing: Must be able to hear and understand work direction in a loud, distracting environment
Vision: Must be able to judge distance, identify details, and view computer screen regularly
MISCELLANEOUS
Travel: N/A
Vehicle (own): N/A
Tools (own): N/A
Technology (own): N/A
Visual Pak Companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Visual Pak does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, gender (orientation or identification), sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other basis covered by federal, state, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, skills, individual performance, and business needs.
Visual Pak logo

About Visual Pak

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics packaging film and sheet (including laminated) manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Waukegan, IL, US

Year founded

1982

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