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Entry Level Lab Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Class C

Champaign, IL · On-site

$22.73/hr

... - Assist with project testing including samples from Champaign projects, R&D and other locations ... Poor lab technique and errors can result in substantial product loss with a high financial impact ...

Histo Technologist

Evanston, IL · On-site

$29 - $39.03/hr

Specialty Lab * Schedule: Full Time Nights 1a-9:30a and rotating weekends * Facility: Prime Health ... Assist with immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining and related procedures as applicable 4) Ensure ...

Histo Technologist

Evanston, IL · On-site

$29 - $39.03/hr

Specialty Lab * Schedule: Full Time Nights 1a-9:30a and rotating weekends * Facility: Prime Health ... Assist with immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining and related procedures as applicable 4) Ensure ...

Histo Technologist

Evanston, IL · On-site

$29 - $39.03/hr

Specialty Lab * Schedule: Full Time Nights 1a-9:30a and rotating weekends * Facility: Prime Health ... Assist with immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining and related procedures as applicable 4) Ensure ...

Seasonal Lab Technician

Champaign, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

On-Site Experience Level: Entry Level Job Type: Seasonal Waypoint Analytical has been a trusted ... Document activities and report results accurately and concisely. * Assist group leaders and ...

Seasonal Lab Technician, Night Shift

Champaign, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

On-Site Experience Level: Entry Level Job Type: Seasonal Waypoint Analytical has been a trusted ... Document activities and report results accurately and concisely. * Assist group leaders and ...

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Entry Level Lab Assistant information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$19

$28

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

As of Sep 10, 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 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.

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 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.

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

Entry level lab assistant positions often do not require prior experience, but they typically seek candidates with basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and sometimes relevant coursework or certifications. Employers may provide on-the-job training to new hires, making it possible to start without previous lab experience.

How do I become an entry level lab assistant?

To become an entry level lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may benefit from coursework in science or biology. Relevant skills include attention to detail, basic laboratory techniques, and familiarity with lab equipment; some positions may require certification or training provided on the job.

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. The difficulty varies depending on the specific employer and required qualifications, but it is generally accessible for candidates with a basic science background.

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 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:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Assistant job openings in Illinois as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,809 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Part-time Lab Assistant - Nursing Education

Belleville, IL • On-site

Southwestern Illinois College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

$20.37/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Southwestern Illinois College rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

ANNOUNCEMENT
Southwestern Illinois College is accepting applications for a part-time, non-union position of Lab Assistant in the Nursing Education program.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
In accordance with the Mission and Values of Southwestern Illinois College, this position is responsible for assisting students in developing competency in entry level skills required of a graduate Registered Nurse. They support the assessment of student learning and report student progress to program coordinator and/or faculty. The Lab Assistant provides open lab practice, instructional assistance, and remediation for occupational and academic skills. The individual will provide tutorial, remediation, and supplementary assistance.
QUALIFICATIONS
1. Bachelor of Science in Nursing and licensed in the State of Illinois.
2. Clinical practice in nursing for a minimum of one (1) year or equivalent experience. Clinical teaching experience preferred.
3. Strong communication, organization, interpersonal, and counseling skills.
4. Knowledge of the use of information technology.
5. Displays good interpersonal skills with students both individually and in groups.
SALARY
$20.37 per hour, up to 9 hours per week.
BENEFITS & PERKS
Benefit availability and eligibility may vary from the summary listed below. Please visit www.swic.edu for more information.
  • Retirement savings plan through State Universities Retirement System of Illinois and voluntary 403(b) and 457(b) savings plan
  • Eligibility for medical coverage as outlined in the Affordable Care Act
  • Employee Assistance Program, employee discounts, gym access, additional voluntary benefits and more!
WORK LOCATION
Belleville Campus with duties district-wide.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
This position will remain open until filled.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Required application materials, such as resume, cover letter and references, should be attached to your application. Other required application materials i.e., transcripts, etc., should be attached after your application has been submitted. Go to your My Job Applications page from the careers home page of your account.
Southwestern Illinois College
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