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Entry Level Lab Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Provide customer service to clients, patients, and support within the lab. * Other duties as assigned. Experience and Education: * Bachelors Degree Preferred. * Personal computer and data entry ...

Provide customer service to clients, patients, and support within the lab. * Other duties as assigned. Experience and Education: * Bachelors Degree Preferred. * Personal computer and data entry ...

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 ...

Histo Technologist

Evanston, IL · On-site

$29 - $39.03/hr

Specialty Lab * Schedule: Full Time Nights 2a-10:30a and rotating weekends * Facility: Prime Healthcare St Francis Hospital * Location: Evanston, IL 60201 Responsibilities The Histotechnician is ...

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 Tech - Nights

Maywood, IL · On-site

$25 - $39.60/hr

Employment Type: Full time Shift: 12 Hour Night Shift Description: Our Vision As a mission-driven innovative health organization, we will become the national leader in improving the health of our ...

Histo Tech Evenings

Maywood, IL · 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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Lab information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$24

$52

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in Chicago, IL is $24.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $26.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level lab?

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.

Is it hard to get a job in an entry level lab?

Securing an entry level lab position can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a high school diploma or an associate degree, along with basic laboratory skills. Candidates with certifications, familiarity with lab equipment, and strong attention to detail tend to have better chances of employment.

What career paths start in an entry level lab?

Starting in an entry-level lab position can lead to careers such as laboratory technician, research associate, quality control analyst, or laboratory supervisor. These roles often serve as stepping stones to specialized fields like biomedical research, clinical laboratory science, or quality assurance, and may require certifications or further education in science or technology.

How do I start working in an entry level lab?

To start working in an entry level lab, obtain relevant education such as a high school diploma or an associate degree in a science-related field. Gaining basic laboratory skills, familiarity with lab equipment, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training can improve your chances; applying for internships or entry-level positions through job boards is also common.

What are 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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level lab technician?

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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,599 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Histo Technician: 40 Hours Per Week (Midnights)

Alverno Laboratories

Hammond, IN

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Alverno Laboratories rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

102nd of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Central Laboratory- Histology
 
Location: 2434 Interstate Plaza Dr. Hammond, IN46324
 
Shift: Midnight; 10:00 PM - 6:30 AM, Monday - Friday; Weekend and/or Holiday Rotation
 
FTE: 1.0
 
WHY ALVERNO

 We are a highly reliable scientific organization building a culture of service. Our commitment advances the health, wellness and continuity of care in the communities we serve. We are one of the largest integrated laboratory networks serving hospitals in the Midwest region. Our network includes 32 hospitals and multiple physician offices.

WHAT WILL YOU DO.

This individual is responsible for the preparation of gross specimens, embedding tissues, processing tissue specimens, cutting tissues, performing all stains to include immunoperoxidase to provide data in the functioning of tissue and organs, causes and/or progress of disease. Other duties include assisting the Pathologist with grossing of specimens, preparation of microscopic slides, assisting in developing new techniques and teaching.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

Associate degree in a lab science and graduate of an accredited Histology Technician program required.

Meets the alternative education and experience guidelines set forth by the ASCP to become registry eligible for the HT category.


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