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Design Lab Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

VIVA USA INC

Mechanical Design Engineer

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Works with senior engineering personnel, mechanical engineers, lab engineers, technical writer ... May visit suppliers to assist in resolving their production problems. Generates development and ...

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All JobsDesign Lab JobsDesign Lab Assistant JobsDesign Lab Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Design Lab Assistant information

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How much do design lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for design lab assistant in Chicago, IL is $20.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Design Lab Assistant vs Design Intern?

AspectDesign Lab AssistantDesign Intern
CredentialsRelevant coursework, basic design skillsEnrolled in design or related degree program
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, studios, collaborative spacesDesign firms, studios, educational settings
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, research labs, design companiesDesign agencies, corporate teams, startups
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding support roles in design labsGaining internship opportunities in design

Design Lab Assistants typically support design projects with basic skills and work in educational or research environments, while Design Interns are students gaining hands-on experience in professional design settings. Both roles involve collaboration and learning but differ mainly in experience level and purpose.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Design Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design Lab Assistant, you need foundational knowledge of design principles, familiarity with lab protocols, and typically a degree or coursework in design or a related field. Proficiency with design software (such as Adobe Creative Suite or CAD programs), 3D printers, and other fabrication tools is often required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you manage projects and collaborate with team members. These skills and qualities are essential for supporting creative processes, ensuring safety, and maintaining efficient lab operations.

What are Design Lab Assistants?

Design Lab Assistants are support staff who help maintain and manage operations in design laboratories, such as those found in schools, universities, or creative studios. They assist students, faculty, or professionals by preparing materials, setting up equipment, ensuring lab safety, and sometimes providing technical guidance on design software or tools. Their role is essential for keeping the lab organized and facilitating a productive environment for creative work. Depending on the institution, they may also help with troubleshooting equipment and supporting design projects.

What are some common challenges faced by Design Lab Assistants, and how can they be successfully managed?

Design Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple projects with tight deadlines, maintaining organized workspaces, and troubleshooting equipment issues. Successfully managing these challenges involves developing strong time-management skills, staying proactive with regular equipment maintenance, and communicating clearly with team members and supervisors about project priorities. Embracing a collaborative attitude and being open to feedback can also help Design Lab Assistants adapt quickly and contribute effectively to the creative process.
What are popular job titles related to Design Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL? For Design Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Design Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Design Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Design Lab Assistant job openings:
Design Lab Assistant jobs near you
Research Technologist 2

Research Technologist 2

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • On-site

$11/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Northwestern University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

181st of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department: MCC Chem & Biol Engg
Salary/Grade: NEX/11
The expected salary for this position is between $21.13 - $23.18 per hour, in alignment with departmental equity and market data.
Job Summary:
The Research Technologist 2 supports the function of undergraduate-level teaching labs in Chemical & Biological Engineering & Biomedical Engineering by (1) conducting experimental research lab work and assisting in the design of one or more specific phase(s) of entire project(s), (2) aiding students as they conduct experimental research in the teaching lab space, and (3) maintaining a safe laboratory environment.
To that end, the Research Technologist will repair and maintain equipment in undergraduate teaching lab; assist with ordering and tracking of chemicals and supplies, hazardous waste management and disposal; assist in the development and construction of new and/or improved experiments; assist students (under the supervision of a faculty member) in laboratory classes as needed, including operating lab equipment, and assist in the maintenance of biological materials and animal preparations. They may complete mathematical calculations or computer tasks to assist students in judging the validity of their data. The Research Technologist should run the teaching lab by following appropriate protocols, policies, procedures, regulations, Good Clinical and Good Laboratory Practices.
This is a one-year term position subject to renewal, dependent on performance and available funding
Specific Responsibilities:
Molecular Biology:
  • DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression Southern, Northern, Western blotting
  • PCR, RT-PCR
  • Plasmid preparation
  • Cloning, mapping and sequencing of DNA
  • Recombinant virus production and purification
Cellular Biology:
  • Cell culture, cell isolation
  • Functional studies
  • Transfection
Histology:
  • Tissue fixation/processing: embedding, preparation of blocks and sectioning, staining
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Microscopy
Immunology:
  • Flow cytometry
  • ELISA, Elispot assay
  • Cytokine assay
  • Antibody production and purification
Animal:
  • Husbandry
  • Breeding and screening transgenic mice
  • Dissections
  • Blood collection
  • Surgical procedures
  • Database management of colony
Administration
  • Maintains detailed records of results which may include collecting, extracting & entering data.
  • Manipulates, interprets &/or presents results.
  • Prepares charts & graphs for presentations & publications.
  • Performs scientific literature searches in support of research.
  • Completes portions of grant applications, manuscripts & publications.
Finance
  • Tracks & summarizes lab supply expenses.
  • Verifies accuracy of invoices.
  • Orders &/or maintains inventory of reagent, mice &/or lab supplies.
Supervises
  • Trains students.
Miscellaneous
Performs other duties as assigned.
Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)
  • Knowledge of electronics, machinery, piping/tubing, and experimental data acquisition systems.
  • Experience with biological experiments, ideally including in vivo animal experiments.
  • Familiarity with gas chromatography and/or high-performance liquid chromatography would be desirable.
Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.
Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.
Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more
Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement . Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process .
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