Entry Level Ivf Lab Embryologist Jobs in Illinois

Be a part of a world-class academic healthcare system at UChicago Medicine as an Embryologist supporting our Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility (REI) team at our South Loop location. This position is a 100% onsite opportunity. You will need to be based in the greater Chicagoland area.

The Embryologist is responsible for performing advanced assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures with precision, maintaining optimal laboratory conditions, and ensuring the highest quality outcomes for patients. This role requires strong technical expertise, independent decision-making, and adherence to strict ethical and regulatory standards. Under general supervision, physicians are provided with high-quality support to meet the patient's clinical care needs. Responsible for participating in the daily operation and routine maintenance of the IVF lab.

Essential Job Functions:

• Perform all routine embryology services, including oocyte identification, assessment and denudation, conventional IVF, ICSI, embryo culture, grading and selection, assisted hatching, embryo biopsy, cryopreservation of embryos, oocytes and sperm (vitrification/warming), sperm preparation for IVF and IUI procedures, embryo transfer dish preparation and coordination with clinical team.
• Perform all routine andrology services including semen analysis, cryopreservation of sperm and warming sperm preparation for IVF and IUI procedures.
• Perform daily quality control and calibration of lab equipment and monitor and maintain culture systems, incubators, and environmental conditions.
• Main meticulous records of all procedures and laboratory activities; participate in troubleshooting, protocol development and process improvement.
• Comply with all regulatory requirements (CLIA, CAP, FDA, SART) and internal SOP's.
• Provide mentorship and training to junior embryology staff.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Reproductive Sciences, or related field required (Master's degree preferred).
• Minimum 2-5 years of hands-on clinical embryology experience in a clinical IVF laboratory.
• Desire to eventually certify by the American Board of Bioanalysis in Embryology preferred.
• Proficient in micromanipulation techniques (ICSI, biopsy).
• Strong problem solving skills, manual dexterity, and precision in handling specimens.
• Commitment to patient-centered care, ethical practice, and patient confidentiality.
• Understanding and commitment to the mission, vision and values of the organization.
• Awareness of changing trends in IVF laboratory practice and ability to adapt.
• Knowledge and skills to provide patient care appropriate to an infertility diagnosis.
• Ability to function effectively in stressful situations.
• Excellent communication, documentation and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work under supervision following current policies and procedures.
• Detail orientated and meticulous.
• Ability to work early mornings, late afternoons, weekends, and holidays to accommodate patient treatment cycles and on-call rotations, willingness to adjust schedules as needed, and availability to answer alarm system, if necessary, during downtime.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and handle sensitive biological specimens.
• Clinical laboratory with possible exposure to communicable diseases, blood or body fluids.

Position Details:

• Job Type/FTE: Full-Time (1.0 FTE)
• Shift: M-F with 2 weekends/month; during cycle weeks daily schedule is 6:30-3 and off cycle weeks 7-3:30
• Work Location: Onsite - South Loop
• Unit/Department: OBGYN Offsite Clinic
• CBA Code: Non-Union