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Food Lab Assistant Jobs in Mount Prospect, IL (NOW HIRING)

Certified Group

Micro Lab Assistant

Aurora, IL

Job Summary The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing, and organizing media and reagents essential to analytical and microbiological testing of food ...

Certified Group

Micro Lab Assistant

Aurora, IL

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North ... Job Summary The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing ...

Certified Group

Micro Lab Assistant

Aurora, IL · On-site

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North ... Job Summary The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing ...

Carbery Group

Lab Technician (Contract)

Wauconda, IL · On-site

$22/hr

With deep expertise across food, beverage, and nutrition, our teams develop high-quality taste ... procedures. Assist with sensory testing by organizing and preparing samples for taste panels.

Carbery Group

Lab Technician (Contract)

Wauconda, IL · On-site

$22/hr

With deep expertise across food, beverage, and nutrition, our teams develop high-quality taste ... • Assist with sensory testing by organizing and preparing samples for taste panels. • Perform ...

Simple Mills

R&D/QA Lab Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

Company Description Simple Mills is on a mission to transform the way food is made, creating ... Requirements Role Description The R&D/QA Lab Technician will be a critical role in Chicago. In this ...

Simple Mills

R&D/QA Lab Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

Technical Testing & Lab Support * Assist in the planning and execution of benchtop testing as assigned by the Food Scientists and Managers * Prepare, test, and evaluate food and ingredient samples ...

Certified Group

Chemistry Lab Tech II

Aurora, IL

$18.75 - $25/hr

JOB SUMMARY Assist in the chemical testing of food products, ingredients, and other matrices with ... Maintain lab workspaces in a clean and organized manner at all times * Assisting with managing ...

Winland Foods, Inc.

Food Technician

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

Communicate findings, observations, and challenges to project leads * Assist with preparation and ... Keep the lab clean, organized, and GMP-compliant * Complete assigned project tasks within ...

Winlandfoods

Food Technician

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

Communicate findings, observations, and challenges to project leads * Assist with preparation and ... Keep the lab clean, organized, and GMP-compliant * Complete assigned project tasks within ...

Certified Group

Chemistry Lab Tech II

Aurora, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

JOB SUMMARY Assist in the chemical testing of food products, ingredients, and other matrices with ... Maintain lab workspaces in a clean and organized manner at all times * Assisting with managing ...

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All JobsFood Lab JobsFood Lab Assistant JobsFood Lab Assistant Jobs in Mount Prospect, IL

Food Lab Assistant information

See Mount Prospect, IL salary details

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How much do food lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for food lab assistant in Mount Prospect, IL is $20.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $22.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

Food lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions prefer or require postsecondary education in food science, microbiology, or related fields. Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols are important. Certifications in food safety or sanitation can be advantageous but are not always mandatory.

What are some common challenges a Food Lab Assistant might face during routine testing and how can they be addressed?

Food Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict quality control standards while handling multiple samples and adhering to tight deadlines. Another common issue is managing cross-contamination risks, which requires careful attention to lab protocols and cleanliness. Effective communication with team members and supervisors is also crucial, especially when clarifying test procedures or reporting unusual findings. Staying organized, following standard operating procedures, and seeking guidance when uncertainties arise can help overcome these challenges and ensure accurate results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Lab Assistant, you need a background in food science or a related field, with knowledge of laboratory safety and basic analytical techniques. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, food testing methods, and data management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work well in a team are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure accurate testing, compliance with safety standards, and efficient support of food quality and research operations.

What are Food Lab Assistants?

Food Lab Assistants are professionals who support food scientists and technologists in research and quality control laboratories. They help prepare samples, conduct experiments, maintain laboratory equipment, and record data related to food safety, nutrition, and product development. Their work is essential in ensuring food products meet safety standards and regulatory requirements. Food Lab Assistants often work in food manufacturing companies, research institutions, or government agencies.

Is it easy to get a job with a food science degree?

Food Lab Assistants with a food science degree often find entry-level positions available, especially in food manufacturing, quality control, or research settings. Having relevant skills such as laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and certifications like HACCP can improve job prospects, but competition varies by location and industry demand.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A Food Lab Assistant supports food testing and quality control processes by preparing samples, operating laboratory equipment, and recording data. They ensure safety protocols are followed and may assist with experiments or inspections to ensure food products meet standards.

What degree do I need to be a lab assistant?

For a Food Lab Assistant position, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Some roles may prefer or require post-secondary education such as an associate's degree or coursework in food science, microbiology, or related fields. Relevant skills include attention to detail and familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols.
What are popular job titles related to Food Lab Assistant jobs in Mount Prospect, IL? For Food Lab Assistant jobs in Mount Prospect, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Lab Assistant jobs in Mount Prospect, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Food Lab Assistant jobs in Mount Prospect, IL are:
What cities near Mount Prospect, IL are hiring for Food Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Mount Prospect, IL with the most Food Lab Assistant job openings:
Food Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Lab Assistant job openings in Mount Prospect, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,839 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Lab Assistant

Matrix Sciences International Inc

Mount Prospect, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 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, data management, sensory and agricultural services that support our customers’ confidence in bringing safe, quality food to market.

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:

The Lab Assistant performs laboratory support responsibilities in a fast-paced production environment, preparation of microbiological samples & media, cleaning, waste disposal, and basic maintenance functions.

What you’ll do:

  • Sterilize and dispose biohazardous waste according to established procedures.
  • Prepare media and reagents to support microbiology testing, ensuring products are documented, aliquoted, labelled and quality control specifications are met.
  • Perform and document routine laboratory maintenance tasks such as sample archiving, basic equipment monitoring, waste disposal and cleaning (laboratory and labware).
  • Assist Lab Techs in sample preparation and weighing of test items, as required.
  • Adhere to lab safety procedures and reporting standards.
  • Follow written Standard Operating Procedures and Work Instructions.
  • As needed, perform shipping/receiving duties and keep external/customer facing areas clear.
  • Other duties may be assigned to assist with the operations of the lab.
  • The candidate for this role will be able to work flexible hours and willing to work overtime.

What you have:

  • High School Diploma, or equivalent.
  • Demonstrates ability to work with a team.
  • Able to multitask.
  • Positive outlook with the ability to adapt to a changing environment.

What we offer:

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

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.


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