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Food Lab Assistant Jobs in Niles, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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.

Job Title: R&D Lab Technician - Food and Beverage Join our dynamic R&D team as a Lab Technician ... Ensure compliance with GMP and food safety standards. * Assist with pilot plant trials, production ...

Job Title: R&D Lab Technician - Food and Beverage Join our dynamic R&D team as a Lab Technician ... Ensure compliance with GMP and food safety standards. * Assist with pilot plant trials, production ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Food Lab Assistant information

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How much do food lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for food lab assistant in Niles, IL is $20.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $22.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food lab assistant?

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.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a food lab assistant?

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 challenges might a food lab assistant 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.

How do you become a food lab assistant?

To become a food lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience or training in food science, microbiology, or related fields. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory safety procedures, and familiarity with testing equipment. Some positions may require certification or coursework in food safety or quality assurance.

Is it hard to become a food lab assistant?

Becoming a food lab assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and some knowledge of food safety and laboratory procedures. The role often involves attention to detail, basic lab skills, and sometimes certifications like ServSafe, but it generally does not require extensive experience or advanced education.

What qualifications do I need to be a food lab assistant?

To become a food lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include attention to detail, basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation, and familiarity with laboratory equipment; some positions may require prior experience or certification in food safety or related fields.

What job categories do people searching Food Lab Assistant jobs in Niles, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Lab Assistant jobs in Niles, IL are:

What cities near Niles, IL are hiring for Food Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Niles, IL with the most Food Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Lab Assistant job openings in Niles, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,916 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Lab Assistant

Matrix Sciences International Inc

Mount Prospect, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 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.


Tuesday - Saturday 9:00AM - 5:30PM