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Entry Level Lab Technician Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Deibel Laboratories Inc

Media Technician

Niles, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Our lab location in Niles, IL is hiring a full-time, entry-level Media Tech (40 hours/week). We ... Lab technicians with sample prep as well as other janitorial duties in the lab and office.

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All JobsLab Technician JobsEntry Level Lab Technician JobsEntry Level Lab Technician Jobs in Elgin, IL

Entry Level Lab Technician information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$13

$23

$49

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab technician in Elgin, IL is $23.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.63 and $25.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level lab technician do?

As an entry-level lab technician, you help senior technicians and technologists to test and analyze medical samples, such as blood, urine, or tissue. Typically, a doctor or other healthcare professional takes a medical specimen and sends it to a lab for analysis. When labs complete their tests, they send their reports to the pathology lab, which aids in a doctor’s diagnosis of a patient. In this job, you use specialized equipment, such as cell counters, centrifuges, and powerful microscopes, and log your analysis for technologists.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of basic laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and at least a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data entry systems such as LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is typically required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in supporting scientific investigations and maintaining lab accuracy. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring precise results, regulatory compliance, and efficient lab operations.

What does a typical day look like for an entry level lab technician, and how do they interact with other team members?

As an Entry Level Lab Technician, your daily tasks often include preparing and maintaining laboratory equipment, conducting routine tests or experiments, recording data accurately, and following strict safety protocols. You’ll regularly collaborate with senior technicians, scientists, and lab managers to support ongoing research or quality control projects. Communication is key, as you may need to report findings, troubleshoot equipment issues, or help ensure compliance with lab standards. This role offers valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, making it a strong foundation for career growth in laboratory sciences.

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

AspectEntry Level Lab TechnicianLaboratory Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentLaboratories in healthcare, research, or manufacturing settingsSupport roles in labs, hospitals, or research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in healthcare, biotech, pharmaceuticals, and research industriesCommon in hospitals, clinics, and research institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Lab Technician and a Laboratory Assistant lies in their responsibilities and qualifications. Entry Level Lab Technicians typically perform more technical tasks and may require specific certifications or degrees, while Laboratory Assistants focus on supporting roles and routine tasks. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings across healthcare, research, and industry sectors.

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

To become an entry-level lab technician with no experience, candidates should obtain a relevant associate degree or certification in laboratory sciences or a related field. Gaining basic skills in laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and using common lab equipment can improve employability; some employers also value strong attention to detail and the ability to follow instructions.

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

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.
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Entry Level Lab Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Technician job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,474 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Entry-Level Laboratory Technician - Organic Extractions (Mon - Fri 4:00 PM - 1:00 AM)

Sterling Labs

Des Plaines, IL • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
About Us
Sterling Labs (Environmental Monitoring & Technologies, LLC) is a DoD, NELAP, ANAB, and AIHA-accredited environmental laboratory providing high-integrity analytical data through state-of-the-art technology and validated testing methodologies. For more than 40 years, our work has supported initiatives that protect human health and the environment.
Our success is built on client partnerships and scientific excellence. We collaborate with environmental consultants, engineering firms, and government agencies to deliver reliable, timely analytical results that support regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship. From wastewater testing in the greater Chicago area to nationwide projects with Department of Defense partners, our commitment to quality and innovation continues to drive our growth.
When you join Sterling Labs, you become part of a team of scientists, professionals, and technical specialists who share one purpose:
WE PRESERVE THE PLANET TO PROTECT THE FUTURE
This purpose shapes our culture, drives our decisions, and guides how we serve our clients and support one another. We believe that meaningful progress comes from integrity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improvement-principles that are reflected in our core values.
Our Core Values
  • Integrity in Everything We Do -We act with honesty, transparency, and accountability.
  • Customer Focused - We prioritize our clients' needs and value their feedback.
  • We are never satisfied - We seek better ways to serve our clients and support our employees through innovation and growth.

At Sterling Labs, we know our employees are the foundation of our success. We strive to provide a supportive, inclusive, and growth-oriented workplace where every individual is encouraged to learn, innovate, and advance.
Employee Benefits
Sterling Labs offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and well-being of our full-time employees:
  • Healthcare Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Financial Security: 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, and short- and long-term disability coverage
  • Work-Life Balance: Paid Time Off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays)

Equal Employment Opportunity
Sterling Labs is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, sex, age, disability, marital or family status, pregnancy, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Recruitment Notice
Sterling Labs does not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party agencies. Please do not forward resumes to company email addresses or employees. Sterling Labs is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited submissions.
Position Overview
The Laboratory Technician for Organic Extractions is responsible for performing a range of laboratory tasks including preparation, analysis, and testing of soil and water samples following standard operating procedures (SOPs) and laboratory methods.
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform routine operation, maintenance, calibration, and trouble-shoot laboratory equipment.
  • Prepare samples, dilutions and splits for analysis according to the SOP.
  • Prepare and properly label reagents and standards
  • Complete general laboratory paperwork in logbooks, maintenance books, standard books, bench sheets, etc.
  • Properly dispose of samples according to the SOP.
  • Clean and maintain laboratory equipment in good working order.
  • Communicate to your supervisor about the status of your workload as well as any data quality issues.
  • Assist your supervisor with root cause investigations to determine the source of issues (Corrective Actions Reports) and implement corrective actions needed to resolve those issues.
  • Other duties as determined by the department Team Lead.

General Extractions Duties
  • Prepare, digest, and analyze soil and water samples, ensuring consistency with Sterling Labs' SOPs.
  • Use laboratory scales and manual pipettes for sample weighing and liquid transfer.
  • Read meniscus lines on glassware and perform accurate spiking of samples using wire trawls.
  • Utilize various equipment such as turbovaps, burners, nitrogen evaporation to concentrate and extract samples from soil and water.

Soil (50%)
  • Utilize sonicators for soil extractions for SVOC and TPH
  • Utilize lab microwaves for extracting herbicides, pesticides, and PCBs

Waters (50%)
  • Operate separatory funnel shakers for water sample extraction for further SVOC, TPH, PCBs, Pesticides and Herbicides analysis
  • Operate centrifuges for emulsion separation

Equipment and Instruments Used
Lab Scales, Fume hoods, Centrifuge, Funnel shakers, Wire trawl, Turbovaps, Burners, Nitrogen evaporation, Pipettes
Requirements
Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in environmental science, chemistry, or biology.
  • Ability to learn laboratory information systems (LIMS), databases, and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and form conclusions.
  • Highly organized, with an ability to follow specific rules and patterns for analysis and equipment setup.

Physical Requirements:
  • Prolonged periods of standing while preparing and extracting soil and water samples.
  • Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle pipettes, glassware, balances, wire trawls, and other laboratory instruments with precision.
  • Must be able to lift, carry, and move solvent containers, sample batches, and laboratory equipment weighing up to 30 pounds using proper and safe lifting techniques.
  • Occasional bending, reaching, and stooping to access instruments, perform maintenance, or retrieve supplies.
  • Must be able to visually read meniscus lines, monitor sample color changes, and inspect instrument displays accurately; specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Must be able to work safely around organic solvents, compressed gases, acids, and other hazardous laboratory chemicals while wearing required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, lab coats, and safety glasses.
  • Ability to maintain sustained attention and precision during repetitive or detailed analytical and extraction procedures.
  • Must be able to communicate clearly and professionally with supervisors and coworkers regarding workload, safety, and data accuracy.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Salary Description
$19.00

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