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Junior Lab Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Joliet Junior College

Culinary Lab Assistant

Joliet, IL · On-site

$15.38 - $17.30/hr

Joliet Junior College is an AA/EO employer and strongly encourages applications from candidates who ... day's lab class. 2. Assist students with menu production and supervise quality of product. 3. ...

JJC Enterprises

Culinary Lab Assistant

Joliet, IL · On-site

$15.38 - $17.30/hr

Joliet Junior College is an AA/EO employer and strongly encourages applications from candidates who ... day's lab class. 2. Assist students with menu production and supervise quality of product. 3. ...

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Junior Lab Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$19.6K

$54K

$90.7K

How much do junior lab assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior lab assistant in Chicago, IL is $54,043.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,100.00 and $59,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a junior lab assistant do?

A Junior Lab Assistant supports scientists and senior lab staff by performing routine laboratory tasks such as preparing samples, organizing equipment, cleaning workspaces, and recording data. They help ensure that experiments run smoothly by maintaining an organized and safe laboratory environment. Junior Lab Assistants may also assist with basic experiments and handle administrative tasks, making them an essential part of the lab team. This role is often entry-level and provides valuable hands-on experience for those interested in scientific research or laboratory work.

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

To thrive as a Junior Lab Assistant, you need a basic understanding of laboratory techniques, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data entry systems, and basic software like Microsoft Excel is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure the accuracy and safety of lab procedures, supporting reliable research and daily operations.

What challenges might a junior lab assistant face when learning to maintain laboratory equipment?

As a Junior Lab Assistant, you may encounter challenges in understanding the proper handling and calibration of complex laboratory equipment, especially when you are new to the environment. Each instrument may have specific maintenance protocols, and mistakes can impact research outcomes. However, most labs provide hands-on training and mentorship from senior staff, so being proactive in asking questions and carefully following standard operating procedures can help you quickly build confidence and competency.

What is the difference between Junior Lab Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectJunior Lab AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationAssociate degree or relevant certification in laboratory sciences
Work EnvironmentEducational, research, or clinical labs; supervised settingClinical, research, or industrial labs; more independent tasks
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research centers, hospitalsHospitals, biotech firms, pharmaceutical companies
Common Search & ComparisonEntry-level, support roles in labsTechnical, more specialized lab work

The main difference between a Junior Lab Assistant and a Laboratory Technician lies in their qualifications and responsibilities. Junior Lab Assistants typically have a high school diploma and perform basic support tasks under supervision, while Laboratory Technicians usually hold an associate degree and handle more technical, independent duties. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings, but Laboratory Technicians often require more specialized training and experience.

Can you get a junior lab assistant job with no experience?

Junior lab assistant positions often require little to no prior experience, making them accessible to entry-level candidates. Employers typically look for basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols; relevant coursework or certifications can also be beneficial. On-the-job training is common, and demonstrating enthusiasm and a willingness to learn can improve chances of hiring without experience.

What are popular job titles related to Junior Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Junior Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Junior Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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

Junior Lab Assistant jobs near you

Culinary Lab Assistant

Joliet Junior College

Joliet, IL • On-site

$15.38 - $17.30/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Joliet Junior College rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

500th of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Title:
Culinary Lab Assistant
Job Description:
POSITION TITLE:Culinary Lab Assistant
STATUS:Part time
DEPARTMENT: Culinary Arts
SUB-DIVISION: Career & Technical Education
DIVISION: Academic Affairs
CLASSIFICATION: Non-exempt
UNION: Non-union
REPORTS TO: Chef Instructor holding lab class on that particular day
PLACEMENT: Support staff, Grade 2
HIRING RANGE: $15.38 - $17.30 hourly
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The student population at the college is diverse in ethnicity, gender, language, age and background. Joliet Junior College is an AA/EO employer and strongly encourages applications from candidates who would enhance the diversity of its staff.
POSITION SUMMARY
Responsible for assisting instructional faculty and students, and provides support in the operation and monitoring of lab processes, equipment and activities in the Culinary Arts Management Program.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Meet with instructor to discuss any special needs for that day's lab class.
2. Assist students with menu production and supervise quality of product.
3. Monitor students to ensure they are following proper recipes, cooking procedures, baking practices, and service skills where appropriate.
4. Continually monitor sanitation and safety practices of students.
5. Inform chef instructor of any misconduct, mishandling or a destruction and/or waste of product by students.
6. Monitor all storage and food production areas to ensure that students put products away and store them properly.
7. Assist students with proper professional knife skills, terminology and techniques.
8. Maintain a positive attitude towards students to foster a learning environment.
9. Assist with Chef for a Day visiting students, recruitment efforts and high school/career fair presentations.
10. Fill in as a teacher assistant when needed.
11. Assist with instruction of daily cooking and food production lessons.
12. Assist with supervision of student workers as necessary.
13. Perform final inspection of individual student work area and dismiss students at the end of each class once all food production and classroom food spaces have been cleaned and sanitized.
14. Ensure operation is in good condition for health department inspections of student food production areas.
15. Work with the instructor to inventory all products and prepare orders for all food and non-food supplies needed for each class.
16. Develop and maintain production sheets for each instructor/class.
17. Perform other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
1. One (1) year of culinary arts lab work completed with a grade of "B" or better.
2. Ability to communicate effectively with students/faculty and foodservice staff.
3. Self-motivated, patient, with common sense and problem-solving ability and a willingness to accept responsibility.
4. Recommendation from chef/lab instructor for position of lab assistant.
5. Must be able to work flexible hours during scheduled lab times.
6. Must possess (or currently in process of earning) a current FSSMC sanitation license for the State of Illinois.
7. Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with other members of the college and community, displaying cultural competence as well as emotional intelligence.
8. Demonstrated commitment to the college's core values of respect and inclusion, sustainability, integrity, collaboration, humor and well-being, innovation and quality.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
1. English and Spanish verbal and written communication proficiency.
2. Demonstrated multicultural competence.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
1. Normal culinary lab physical demands.
2. Must complete physical.
3. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
4. Standard culinary lab equipment.
5. Must be able to stand for extended period of times.
WORKING CONDITIONS
1. Culinary lab environment
BENEFITS
Click Here for benefits; Non-Union Support Staff, Professional, Administrative
Full Time/Part Time:
Part time
Union (If Applicable):
Scheduled Hours:
28

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