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Entry Level Lab Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Histo Tech Evenings

Maywood, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $39.60/hr

Employment Type: Full time Shift: Evening Shift Description: Our Vision As a mission-driven innovative health organization, we will become the national leader in improving the health of our ...

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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Lisle, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Seeking to hire an entry-level engineer for a contract-to-hire opportunity to support our client ... Maintain lab equipment and ensure a clean, safe working environment in compliance with safety ...

Employment Type: Full time Shift: Evening Shift Description: Our Vision As a mission-driven innovative health organization, we will become the national leader in improving the health of our ...

Part Time Histo Tech Shift: 6:00am to 2:30pm Mon, Thu, Fri OR 9:30am to 2:00pm Mon-Fri Compensation: $26.00-$40.00 The estimated range is the budgeted amount for this position. Final offers are based ...

Lab Technician I

Niles, IL ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Our lab location in Niles, IL is hiring full-time Food Laboratory Technicians. (40 hours/week plus ... * Entry Level Position: We Are Happy to Train * Must have an interest in learning basic knowledge ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Lab information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$23

$48

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 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.

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 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 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 cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 2% Nights. 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.
Lab Technician

Lab Technician

Matrix Sciences International Inc

Mount Prospect, IL โ€ข On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Are you looking to progress in your career with a fast-growing food safety company? Are you a hardworking, collaborative team member ready to hit the ground running and get the job done? Then we are looking for you!

What we do:

Matrix Sciences International Inc. provides a uniquely comprehensive scope of laboratory, advisory, research, agriculture and data management services that support our customersโ€™ confidence in bringing safe, quality food to market.

The Matrix Sciences Risk Management Solutions ensures client satisfaction and overall organizational food safety and quality, with food supply chain, farming, processing, or distribution.

Why it matters:

This work allows clients to identify potential contamination before it impacts their products and helps them feel confident that their products meet their quality standards and are safe for consumption in the market.

Role Summary:

Performs routine microbiological testing of food and environmental samples for under aseptic conditions for qualitative and quantitative parameters, focusing on sample preparation and plating responsibilities.

What you'll do:

  • Perform sample set up, dilutions and plating activities on food and environmental samples following aseptic techniques and standard operating procedures.
  • Perform equipment monitoring and verification on basic laboratory items such as balances, fridges, incubators, pipettes, etc.
  • Identify, communicate and document non-conformities related to daily activities.
  • Support routine laboratory operations through tasks such as sample archiving, media preparation, cleaning and waste disposal.
  • Ensure accurate and complete traceability and documentation of testing activities performed.
  • Ensure samples are processed efficiently to meet client expectations for turnaround time.
  • Support assigned staff with investigations and implementation of corrective actions performing activities as directed.
  • Identify and assist with implementation of process improvements
  • For responsibilities within area of responsibility, provide training for other laboratory staff.
  • Adhere to lab safety procedures and reporting standards.
  • Follow written Standard Operating Procedures and Work Instructions.
  • Other duties may be assigned to assist with the operations of the lab.
  • General Responsibilities
  • Supports and complies with all Company policies, Quality Systems and Health & Safety programs
  • Keeps work area clean, neat and organized
  • Maintains training records and relevant qualifications
  • Provides general lab support

Competencies

  • Communication Proficiency.
  • Computer and MS Office Suite Navigational Skills.
  • Basic math skills (calculator).
  • Reliability.
  • Attention to Detail.
  • Flexibility.
  • Confidentiality.
  • Organized.

What you have:

  • Minimum Associates Degree in Sciences or at least two (2) years working in a commercial lab environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to work with a team.
  • Positive outlook with the ability to adapt to a multi-tasking and fast changing environment.
  • This is an entry level role with a schedule from Monday through Friday 8am -5pm.

What we offer:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401(k)
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Accident & Critical Illness
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Time-Off
  • LifeLock Protection
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Work Location:

  • Mount Prospect, IL

EEO Statement

Matrix Sciences International Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Matrix Sciences is committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity for all applicants and employees. We treat all employees and applicants in conformance with both the spirit and letter of federal, state, and local employment discrimination laws, regulations, and Executive Orders. The Company makes all employment decisions without regard to a person's race, color, religion, gender (including gender identity or expression), national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, medical condition, marital status, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, uniform services membership status or any other characteristic protected by law. Discrimination, retaliation or harassment based upon any of these factors is wholly inconsistent with how we do business and will not be tolerated.