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Entry Level Lab Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Lab Assistant information

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$10

$19

$28

How much do entry level lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab assistant in Illinois is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be an entry level lab assistant?

To become an entry-level lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include attention to detail, basic laboratory techniques, and familiarity with safety protocols; some positions may prefer or require post-secondary education or certifications in science or laboratory procedures.

What is an entry level lab assistant?

An Entry Level Lab Assistant supports scientists and researchers by performing basic laboratory tasks, such as preparing samples, organizing lab equipment, and recording data. They follow strict safety protocols and ensure the lab stays clean and organized. This role is ideal for individuals with a background in science who want hands-on experience in a laboratory setting. Depending on the workplace, lab assistants may work in medical, research, or industrial labs. It is a great starting position for those looking to advance in the scientific field.

Is it hard to become an entry level lab assistant?

Becoming an entry level lab assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and basic knowledge of laboratory procedures. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with lab equipment, and sometimes certification in safety protocols; however, the role often provides on-the-job training for new hires.

Can you get an entry level lab assistant job with no experience?

Entry level lab assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as they focus on basic laboratory tasks and training on equipment and procedures. Candidates with strong attention to detail, basic scientific knowledge, and relevant coursework or certifications can often qualify without previous work experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the entry level lab assistant position, and why are they important?

To excel as an Entry Level Lab Assistant, you need basic laboratory skills, familiarity with safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring coursework or experience in biology or chemistry. Experience using laboratory equipment like centrifuges, pipettes, and data entry systems is often valuable. Strong attention to detail, communication, and time management skills help you stand out in the role. These abilities ensure that laboratory procedures are performed accurately, efficiently, and safely, supporting the overall success of scientific projects.

How do you become an entry level lab assistant?

To become an entry level lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require basic knowledge of laboratory procedures or familiarity with lab equipment. Relevant skills include attention to detail, organization, and the ability to follow safety protocols. Some employers may prefer candidates with coursework in science or related fields, and on-the-job training is often provided.

What are some typical daily tasks for an entry level lab assistant?

Entry Level Lab Assistants typically handle tasks such as preparing and labeling samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, recording data, and helping maintain a clean and organized workspace. You may also assist senior lab staff with routine experiments and monitor inventory of supplies. The role often involves following strict safety procedures and ensuring all activities comply with laboratory standards. This hands-on experience provides valuable exposure to lab techniques and a collaborative team environment, making it an excellent starting point for those interested in scientific careers.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab Assistant jobs in Illinois?

For Entry Level Lab Assistant jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab Assistant jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab Assistant jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Lab Assistant job openings:

Entry Level Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Assistant job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,809 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Lab Research Assistant 1 - Orthopedic Surgery

Rush University Medical Center

Chicago, IL

$18.87 - $26.66/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Rush University Medical Center rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 109 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

118th of 1,059 rated hospitals

Job description

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Business Unit: Rush Medical Center

Hospital: Rush University Medical Center

Department: Orthopedic Surgery-Res Adm

Work Type: Full Time (Total FTE between 0. 9 and 1. 0)

Shift: Shift 1

Work Schedule: 8 Hr (8:00:00 AM - 4:00:00 PM)

Rush offers exceptional rewards and benefits learn more at our Rush benefits page (https://www.rush.edu/rush-careers/employee-benefits).

Pay Range: $18.87 - $26.66 per hour
Rush salaries are determined by many factors including, but not limited to, education, job-related experience and skills, as well as internal equity and industry specific market data. The pay range for each role reflects Rush’s anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position. Offers may vary depending on the circumstances of each case.

Summary:
The Lab Research Assistant 1 performs laboratory support tasks and entry-level scientific procedures under direct supervision. The Lab Research Assistant 1 prepares materials, processes samples, records basic data, and maintains clean and organized workspaces. This position is designed to develop foundational laboratory skills while supporting the daily operations of the research team.
Exemplifies the Rush mission, vision and values and acts in accordance with Rush policies and procedures.

Required Job Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
Experience: 1 year of laboratory experience
Experience (in lieu of a degree): 2 years of laboratory experience
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
•Knowledge of both basic and specialized laboratory instruments and software programs
•Proficiency in standard experimental design
•Knowledge and demonstration of good laboratory practice, principles and application
•Attention to detail and accuracy
•Effective oral and written communication
•Strong analytic skills
Preferred Job Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
Experience: 1 Year laboratory experience in an academic, healthcare, or research environment
Physical Demands:
•Requires effective use of fine motor skills for pipetting, microscopy, properly donning and doffing lab PPE, and data entry tasks
•Requires good vision and manual dexterity to accurately handle lab instruments, record data, and operate computerized systems
•Frequently stands or walks during labs and may occasionally lift or carry items (e.g., reagent trays, small sample containers) up to 25 lbs
•Must work safely in environments containing chemicals, biological samples, or equipment with minimal physical strain

Job Responsibilities:
•Perform basic laboratory techniques such as pipetting, weighing, or centrifugation under supervision
•Clean and restock workstations, shared tools, and lab supplies in accordance with safety and contamination prevention procedures
•Operate standard lab equipment (e.g., balances, microscopes, water baths, autoclave sterilizer) after training and document usage
•Observe and practice laboratory safety protocols, including proper PPE use and chemical handling procedures
•Label, store, and log biological specimens (e.g., fluids, tissue, slides, cells) according to assigned protocols
•Assist in receiving shipments, unpacking supplies, and updating inventory logs
•Accurately record preparation steps, procedural notes, or results in laboratory notebooks or data systems as instructed
•May assist with basic training for Lab Technicians
•Attend lab meetings and shadow senior team members to learn lab procedures and study goals
•Ask clarifying questions and seek feedback to improve skills and contribute to team productivity
•Prepare solutions, buffers, and basic reagents by following detailed instructions and measurement guidelines

Rush is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

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