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Entry Level Lab Tech Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Histo Technologist

Evanston, IL · On-site

$29 - $39.03/hr

Specialty Lab * Schedule: Full Time Nights 1a-9:30a and rotating weekends * Facility: Prime Healthcare St Francis Hospital * Location: Evanston, IL 60201 Responsibilities The Histotechnician is ...

Histo Technologist

Evanston, IL · On-site

$29 - $39.03/hr

Specialty Lab * Schedule: Full Time Nights 1a-9:30a and rotating weekends * Facility: Prime Healthcare St Francis Hospital * Location: Evanston, IL 60201 Responsibilities The Histotechnician is ...

Histo Technologist

Evanston, IL · On-site

$29 - $39.03/hr

Specialty Lab * Schedule: Full Time Nights 1a-9:30a and rotating weekends * Facility: Prime Healthcare St Francis Hospital * Location: Evanston, IL 60201 The Histotechnician is responsible for the ...

Materials Lab Technician

Moline, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

... * Entry level Engineers that are comfortable being hands on, would be a good target. Local ... technologies, materials, and post-processing techniques. * Proficient with Microsoft Office ...

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 ... Our success is driven by investment in advanced technology, industry-leading support, and a ...

The Cardiovascular Invasive Special Procedures Tech provides competent, proficient, technical ... base salary entry level of this position range Experienced RT: Must be a graduate of an ...

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 ... Our success is driven by investment in advanced technology, industry-leading support, and a ...

Laboratory Technicians

Campus, IL · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

... Lab Career Progression Track S00 Track Level S3 - Skilled, S2 - Intermediate, S1 - Entry Level ... drone technology. At a minimum, the successful applicant will be expected to contribute to ...

Laboratory Technicians

Campus, IL · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

... Lab Career Progression Track S00 Track Level S3 - Skilled, S2 - Intermediate, S1 - Entry Level ... drone technology. At a minimum, the successful applicant will be expected to contribute to ...

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Entry Level Lab Tech information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$23

$48

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

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab tech in Illinois is $23.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level lab tech do?

An Entry Level Lab Tech, also known as a laboratory technician, assists scientists and researchers by preparing and processing samples, maintaining lab equipment, and recording data accurately. Their duties often include measuring chemicals, conducting basic experiments, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed at all times. This role is essential for keeping the laboratory running smoothly and supporting more advanced research work. Entry level positions typically require attention to detail, good organizational skills, and at least an associate degree in a science-related field.

What kind of training and mentorship can I expect as an entry level lab tech?

As an entry level lab tech, you can typically expect a combination of hands-on training and supervision from experienced technicians or lab managers. Many labs provide structured onboarding processes, including safety protocols, equipment handling, and standard operating procedures. Mentorship often comes through shadowing senior staff and regular feedback sessions, which help you build confidence in your techniques and understand quality standards. Collaboration with other team members is common, and asking questions is encouraged to ensure accuracy and adherence to lab protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level lab tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Lab Tech, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and a relevant science background, often supported by an associate degree or equivalent coursework. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry software, and proper sample handling is typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help ensure accuracy and teamwork. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining reliable results and supporting smooth lab operations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Lab Tech vs Laboratory Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Lab TechLaboratory Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; certifications varyHigh school diploma; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labsHospitals, clinics, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesPerforming tests, preparing samples, recording dataAssisting with sample preparation, cleaning, and equipment setup

The Entry Level Lab Tech and Laboratory Assistant roles often overlap in work environment and basic responsibilities. However, Entry Level Lab Techs typically perform more technical testing and data analysis, requiring some formal education or certification, whereas Laboratory Assistants focus on supporting tasks and sample handling. Both roles serve essential functions in laboratory settings, with the Lab Tech generally taking on more technical duties.

How to become an entry level lab tech with no experience?

To become an entry-level lab tech with no experience, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and complete relevant coursework in biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, volunteering, or certifications such as OSHA or CLT can improve your chances; familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols is also beneficial.

What is the starting pay for an entry level lab tech?

The starting pay for an entry-level lab technician typically ranges from $12 to $20 per hour, depending on the location, industry, and required certifications. Many entry-level positions also offer benefits such as training in laboratory equipment and safety protocols.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Tech jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Lab Tech jobs in Illinois are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Tech job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,499 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Radiology Technologist Scrub Cath Lab - Memorial (Belleville, IL)

Belleville, IL • On-site

BJC Healthcare
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

$33 - $49.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform diagnostic imaging procedures including Cardiac Catheterizations, Pacemakers, Vascular procedures, and EP procedures.

  • Assist in patient preparation and recovery as needed.

  • Prepare patient and equipment for imaging procedures and perform studies independently or in on-call situations.


BJC Healthcare rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 232 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Additional Information About the Role

BJC HealthCare System is hiring a Full-Time Advanced Modality - Cath Lab/Vascular Radiology Technologist (Imaging) for  Memorial Hospital (Belleville, IL) - Cardiac Cath Lab

Upcoming Grads, New Grads, and experienced welcome to apply!!!

 

 $5,000 Sign on Bonus for eligible candidates!!!

 Position Details:

  • Day Shift Hours: 4 days per week @ 10-hour shifts with Rotating days off
  • Paid on Call Compensation — even if you're not called in for evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • Scrub procedures including Cardiac Catheterizations, Pacemakers, Vascular procedures, EP procedures
  • Assist in prep and recovery (as needed)
  • ACLS, BLS needed
  • Cath Lab experience (preferred)
  • Advanced Modality Technologist position

Requirements:

  • Associate's Degree or Trade School equivalency (or higher level of education)
  • Certification as a Registered Technologist in Radiography - R.T.(R)

Experience:

  • Could be a good fit if experience in one of the following areas:  MR, CT, RT, X-ray, Radiology, Medical Imaging, ARRT, BD, CI, N, VI, ASRT, Radiologic, Rad Tech, Student Radiology, Student in clinicals, General Radiology (X-Ray Tech), Entry Level, Radiologic Technologist, Radiographer, Rad Tech, Radiology Tech, Medical Imaging, RT, ARRT, Cardiovascular Technologist, Interventional Radiology Technologist, Cardiac Interventional Technologist, and Cardiac Catheterization Technologist, Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist, Interventional Radiologic Technologist, Cath Lab Technologist, Special Procedures Technologist. OR Technologist / Operating Room Radiology Tech, Imaging Specialist - Operating Room, Interventional Technologist, Surgical Technologist – Imaging, Interventional/Surgical), Radiologic Technologist - Operating Room, Scrub Tech Radiology Technologist, RCIS, CIT, CVL

  Next Steps:

  • If selected to move forward with Interview Process, a Talent Advisor will contact you via email for a screen

Overview

Memorial Hospital Belleville is an acute care hospital offering medical and surgical services plus critical and emergency care including Children’s at Memorial for pediatric emergency care. It provides patients a full complement of diagnostic and treatment services as well as heart and vascular care. Memorial, offering medical and surgical services plus critical care, is an accredited Chest Pain Center with PCI by the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care and is designated as an Acute Stroke Ready Hospital by the Illinois Department of Public Health. In addition, Memorial Belleville recently was accredited by the American College of Radiology as a designated Lung Cancer Screening Center. Since 2008, it has been designated as a Magnet®-recognized organization for nursing excellence by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Memorial Hospital Shiloh, a 94-bed, all-private suite hospital was recognized with Magnet status in 2018 and provides emergency care, labor & delivery, nursery, medical and surgical services plus critical care.

The Cardiac Cath Lab at Memorial Hospital is a diagnostic and therapeutic service department.  Services delivered are based on direct physician orders and available in both the inpatient and outpatient setting.


Preferred Qualifications

Role Purpose

Performs diagnostic imaging procedures in at least one advanced imaging modality (defined as Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Interventional, Mammography, Bone Density, Cardiac Catheterization) on adults and/or pediatric patients for the purpose of diagnosis and/or treatment, and quality control.

Responsibilities

  • Prepares patient and equipment for procedures.
  • Performs studies independently, in on-call situations, portable exams, and other site as required by work area.
  • Minimum Requirements

    Education

  • Associate or Trade School Equi
  • Experience

  • No Experience
  • Supervisor Experience

  • No Experience
  • Licenses & Certifications

  • IEMA - Illinois only, excl MRI
  • RTR,CT,MR,M,BD,CI,VI,RCIS,RCES
  • Preferred Requirements

    Experience

  • <2 years
  • Licenses & Certifications

  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
  • Intravenous Therapy

  • Benefits and Legal Statement

    BJC Total Rewards

    At BJC we’re committed to providing you and your family with benefits and resources to help you manage your physical, emotional, social and financial well-being.

    • Comprehensive medical, dental, vison, life insurance, and legal services available first day of the month after hire date
    • Disability insurance* paid for by BJC
    • Annual 4% BJC Automatic Retirement Contribution
    • 401(k) plan with BJC match
    • Tuition Assistance available on first day
    • BJC Institute for Learning and Development
    • Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
    • Paid Time Off benefit combines vacation, sick days, holidays and personal time
    • Adoption assistance

    To learn more, go to our Benefits Summary.

    *Not all benefits apply to all jobs

    The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this position. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. Equal Opportunity Employer


    What BJC Healthcare employees say

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    Benefits

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    Get the full story on Breakroom


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    About BJC Healthcare

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    BJC Healthcare, situated in Saint Louis, MO, US, is one of the largest healthcare organizations in the United States. Launched in 1993, BJC encompasses 15 hospitals and multiple health service organizations covering the metropolitan St. Louis area, mid-Missouri and Southern Illinois. This healthcare titan's services cover a vast field, from community health and wellness, to pediatric care, to advanced specialty care. BJC is well-known for its two nationally recognized hospitals, Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children's Hospital, both affiliated with Washington University School of Medicine. Its mission revolves around improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves through leadership, education, innovation, and excellence in medicine.

    Industry

    Health care and social assistance

    Company size

    10,000+ Employees

    Headquarters location

    Saint Louis, MO, US