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Entry Level Lab Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Pacelabs

Entry-Level Lab Technician 1

Lombard, IL · On-site

$18/hr

This is a full-time, onsite, Lab Tech 1 position located in Lombard, IL,Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Compensation: $18.00 per hour The salary for this position reflects a variety of ...

Pace

Entry-Level Lab Technician 1

Lombard, IL · On-site

$18/hr

This is a full-time, onsite, Lab Tech 1 position located in Lombard, IL, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Compensation: $18.00 per hour The salary for this position reflects a variety of ...

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All JobsLab JobsEntry Level Lab JobsEntry Level Lab Jobs in Illinois

Entry Level Lab information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$23

$48

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab 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.

Will AI replace lab technician?

AI technology is increasingly used to assist lab technicians by automating routine tasks such as data analysis and sample processing. However, lab technicians are essential for overseeing experiments, maintaining equipment, and applying critical thinking, making complete replacement unlikely in the near future.

What is an entry level lab job?

An entry level lab job typically refers to a position in a laboratory setting that requires minimal prior experience or specialized education beyond a high school diploma or associate degree. Employees in these roles assist with basic laboratory tasks such as preparing samples, performing routine tests, maintaining equipment, and recording data under the supervision of more experienced staff. These positions are often a starting point for a career in science, healthcare, or research, providing valuable hands-on experience and exposure to laboratory protocols and safety procedures.

What is the lowest salary for a lab tech?

The lowest salary for an entry-level lab technician typically starts around $30,000 to $35,000 per year, depending on location and employer. Salaries can increase with experience, certifications, and specialized skills such as proficiency with laboratory equipment or data analysis tools.

What jobs let you work in a lab?

Entry-level lab jobs include laboratory technician, research assistant, and lab aide. These roles typically require basic knowledge of lab equipment, safety procedures, and sometimes a relevant certification or degree in science or a related field. They involve tasks such as sample preparation, data recording, and assisting with experiments in scientific or medical laboratories.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level lab technicians, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level lab technicians often face challenges such as adjusting to strict safety protocols, managing multiple tasks efficiently, and becoming familiar with laboratory equipment and procedures. To overcome these hurdles, it's important to actively participate in training sessions, ask questions when unsure, and maintain a well-organized workspace. Building strong communication with senior technicians and supervisors can also help in gaining confidence and improving technical skills over time.

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 basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and typically an associate degree or relevant certification in a scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry systems, and software like LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills are vital for ensuring accurate results, maintaining safety standards, and supporting efficient laboratory operations.

What qualification do I need to work in a lab?

Entry level lab positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring or requiring post-secondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in a relevant field like biology, chemistry, or health sciences. Basic skills in laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are also important; certifications like OSHA safety training can be beneficial.

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

AspectEntry Level LabLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degreeAssociate's degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentEducational, research, or clinical labsMedical, industrial, or research labs
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research facilitiesHospitals, biotech companies, industrial labs
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Lab vs Laboratory Technician

Entry Level Lab roles typically require basic education and involve assisting in lab tasks within educational or research settings. Laboratory Technicians often have similar credentials but may perform more specialized or technical duties in medical or industrial labs. Both roles serve as foundational positions in laboratory environments, with Laboratory Technicians generally having more hands-on responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab jobs in Illinois? For Entry Level Lab jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:
Entry Level Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,499 per year, or $23.3 per hour.
Entry-Level Lab Technician 1

Entry-Level Lab Technician 1

Pace Analytical Services

Lombard, IL

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Shift:

Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Are you ready to work making the world a safer, healthier place? Join our mission to continuously move science forward; to innovate and advance all aspects of our business to improve the health and safety of our communities and lives.

This is a full-time, onsite, Lab Tech 1 position located in Lombard, IL, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Compensation: $18.00 per hour

The salary for this position reflects a variety of factors. Compensation will be determined based on the candidate’s geographic location, relevant experience, education, skills, and alignment with internal equity. Market conditions, budgetary considerations, and organizational compensation guidelines may also influence the final offer. 

Make an Impact. Build a Career.

At Pace®, everything we do is built upon an unwavering commitment to making the world a safer, healthier place. Since 1978, we’ve continued developing innovative practices that drive sustainability and empower our partners with accurate quality data at every critical moment and milestone.

That's why we need you -- your curiosity, your talents, and your drive -- to help us advance this important work, and your career.

We’re seeking curious, motivated individuals who are passionate about protecting our environment and the communities we serve. If you’re looking to develop your skills, contribute to meaningful scientific work, and build a long-term career in environmental science, Pace® could be the perfect place for you.

Find Your Place at Pace®

Join us as a Lab Technician, where you'll put your love of science to work in the sample preparation department of our environmental testing laboratory. You'll receive all the training you need to successfully take on your new role and grow an exciting laboratory sciences career at Pace®.

What You’ll Do

• Support all laboratory sample-related activities, including preservation, preparation, processing, and maintenance.
• Maintain and update appropriate documentation and databases.
• Participate in training on fundamental lab support policies, programs, and practices.

What You’ll Bring

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to work in a lab or office setting, remain standing for long periods while conducting tests, work around strong smells, and wear personal protective equipment while handling samples (lab coat, safety glasses, gloves — all provided by Pace®).
• Experience in a laboratory or environmental testing setting is preferred but not required.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


Mobility to work in a lab and office setting, use standard office and lab equipment and stamina to sit for extended periods of time; exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull or move objects; vision to read printed materials and computer screens; and hearing and speech to communicate in person or over the telephone.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed in a lab and office setting. Work is subject to chemicals, fumes, gases, noxious odors, and related items in a lab and sample setting.

Find Your Place at Pace - We need you - your curiosity, your talents, and your drive - to help us advance this important work.

Benefits
When you join Pace®, you commit to work that makes a positive impact on our communities and our world. We commit to supporting you with benefits and perks that make a positive impact on your life. Full-time roles are eligible for our comprehensive benefits program which includes competitive salaries, medical, dental vision, 401K retirement savings plan (100% vested immediately in the employer match), life, disability and voluntary benefits, paid time off for holiday, sick and vacation days, HSA, wellness program, flexible spending accounts, tuition reimbursement, Employee Assistance program, parental leave, optional legal coverage and ID theft.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Pace® provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, creed, color, religion, genetics, protected veteran status, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

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