ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Instrument Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Brindley Engineering

Instrument Engineer

Lisle, IL

$70K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The instrumentation engineer will assist in generating instrumentation project deliverables for new or updated process instrumentation under the supervision of a senior-level instrument engineer.

Brindley Engineering

Instrument Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The instrumentation engineer will assist in generating instrumentation project deliverables for new or updated process instrumentation under the supervision of a senior-level instrument engineer.

Brindley Engineering

Instrument Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

The instrumentation engineer will assist in generating instrumentation project deliverables for new or updated process instrumentation under the supervision of a senior-level instrument engineer.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsInstrument JobsInstrument Assistant JobsInstrument Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Instrument Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$19

$29

How much do instrument assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument assistant in Chicago, IL is $19.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $21.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Instrument Assistant vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectInstrument AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingPost-secondary education; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, outpatient surgical centersHospitals, surgical centers, outpatient clinics
Job RoleAssists with instrument setup, sterilization, and passing instruments during surgeryPrepares operating rooms, sterilizes equipment, hands instruments to surgeons

While both roles support surgical teams, Instrument Assistants primarily focus on instrument handling and sterilization, often with less formal education. Surgical Technologists have more comprehensive training and certification, performing broader perioperative tasks. Both are essential in surgical settings, but Surgical Technologists typically have more responsibilities and formal credentials.

What does an instrument assistant do?

Instrument Assistants are responsible for preparing, sterilizing, and organizing surgical instruments before procedures. On a daily basis, they ensure all tools are accounted for and in proper working order, assist with instrument setup in operating rooms, and work closely with surgical teams to anticipate needs during procedures. They also help with inventory management, restocking supplies, and maintaining documentation for quality assurance. Teamwork and attention to detail are crucial, as their role directly supports patient safety and surgical efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an instrument assistant?

To thrive as an Instrument Assistant, you need a solid understanding of instrument sterilization, maintenance, and handling procedures, typically supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certification in sterile processing. Familiarity with autoclaves, instrument tracking systems, and infection control protocols is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong organizational skills are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure surgical instruments are properly prepared, reducing infection risks and supporting efficient healthcare operations.

What is an instrument assistant?

Instrument Assistants are professionals who support the setup, maintenance, and operation of scientific or technical instruments, often in laboratories, medical facilities, or industrial environments. Their responsibilities may include calibrating equipment, preparing instruments for procedures, assisting senior technicians or scientists, and ensuring that all tools are functioning properly. They play a key role in maintaining the accuracy and efficiency of operations by troubleshooting minor issues and adhering to safety protocols. Instrument Assistants typically work under the supervision of more experienced staff and may also be involved in record-keeping and inventory management.

What are the most commonly searched types of Instrument jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Instrument Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Instrument Assistant job openings:

Instrument Assistant jobs near you

Chambers & Instrument Repair Tech

Surgical Instrument Service Company

Glendale Heights, IL

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description

The primary role of the Chambers & Instrument Repair Tech is traveling to customer facilities to perform preventative maintenance cleaning and restoration of sterile processing department (SPD) equipment, including steam sterilizers, washer disinfectors, ultrasonic cleaners, sinks, and related equipment. This position serves as a key representative of the company by delivering high-quality service, maintaining strong customer relationships, and ensuring all work is completed safely and professionally.


When not traveling, the technician will report to the Instrument Repair Lab and assist with basic stainless steel surgical instrument repairs and other production-related duties to support operational needs.


Requirements

Essential Duties and Responsibilities


Chamber Cleaning (Primary Responsibility)

  • Travel throughout the United States to customer facilities as scheduled.
  • Perform deep cleaning of steam sterilizers, washer disinfectors, ultrasonic cleaners, sinks, loader carts, and other SPD equipment according to company SOPs.
  • Safely use specialized cleaning chemicals, tools, and equipment.
  • Complete required service reports, checklists, photographs, and documentation.
  • Maintain company tools and inventory.
  • Communicate professionally with hospital staff and management during all service visits.
  • Follow all customer safety requirements, infection prevention protocols, and credentialing standards.
  • Represent the company in a professional manner at all customer locations.
  • Travel may include overnight stays and weekends.

Laboratory Responsibilities (When Not Traveling)

  • Perform basic stainless steel surgical instrument repairs.
  • Basic insulation and powder coating of laparoscopic instruments.
  • Straighten, align, and adjust surgical instruments.
  • Remove and replace powder coat on instruments
  • Laser marking projects that may arise.
  • Polish and refinish stainless steel instruments.
  • Assist with inspection, packaging, and shipping activities.
  • Maintain an organized and clean work area.
  • Support production goals while maintaining company quality standards.

Travel Requirements

  • Approximately 40-50% overnight travel, depending on business needs.
  • Ability to travel by automobile and commercial airline.
  • Flexibility to adjust schedules based on customer demand.


Apply