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Lab Assistant 1 Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Culinary Lab Assistant

Joliet, IL · On-site

$15.38 - $17.30/hr

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 ...

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 ...

Our lab assistants support our instructors in running a safe and effective lab. We are currently ... Aug. 10, 2026 - May 20, 2027 Option 1 Mon - Fri / 8:15am - 2:15pm (5.5 hours paid) - With a 30 ...

The Lab Assistant will work closely with engineers to prepare test setups, operate equipment ... Working together to meet your needs is our #1 goal. Pre-Employment Screening: Drug screening and ...

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Lab Assistant 1 information

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How much do lab assistant 1 jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant 1 in Chicago, IL is $20.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by lab assistant 1s and how can they be managed?

Lab Assistant 1s often face challenges such as balancing multiple tasks simultaneously, maintaining accuracy when handling samples, and adhering to strict safety protocols. To manage these challenges, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and follow established procedures closely. Many labs provide on-the-job training and supervision, so don't hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification from senior staff when needed. Over time, developing strong attention to detail and time management skills will help you excel in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab assistant 1, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Assistant 1, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or an associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with common lab equipment, data entry systems, and possibly certifications in laboratory safety or handling hazardous materials is typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and teamwork are important soft skills that help ensure accuracy and efficiency. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining reliable lab operations, supporting scientific research, and ensuring a safe work environment.

How much does a lab assistant 1 get paid?

A Lab Assistant 1 typically earns between $25,000 and $35,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of this range, with opportunities for pay increases with additional skills or certifications in laboratory procedures and equipment.

What is the difference between Lab Assistant 1 vs Lab Assistant 2?

AspectLab Assistant 1Lab Assistant 2
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma; additional certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, hospitals, research facilitiesSimilar environments, often with increased responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, clinics, research labsSame as Lab Assistant 1, often with more complex tasks
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Lab Assistant 1 typically performs basic laboratory tasks under supervision, while Lab Assistant 2 handles more complex procedures and may require additional experience or certifications. The roles are similar in work environment and industry usage, with Lab Assistant 2 often taking on greater responsibilities.

Can you get a lab assistant 1 job with no experience?

Lab Assistant 1 positions often require minimal prior experience and may be suitable for entry-level candidates. Employers typically look for basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols; some roles may provide on-the-job training. Certifications or coursework in relevant sciences can improve chances but are not always mandatory for this role.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant 1?

To qualify as a Lab Assistant 1, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may require basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and the ability to operate laboratory equipment; relevant certifications are not usually mandatory but can be advantageous.

What is a lab assistant 1?

Lab Assistants are professionals who support scientists, researchers, or educators in laboratory settings. Their responsibilities typically include preparing experiments, maintaining lab equipment, recording data, and ensuring the cleanliness and safety of the lab environment. They may also assist in analyzing samples and managing inventory. Lab Assistants play a crucial role in helping research and educational labs run efficiently. Entry-level lab assistants usually have a high school diploma or associate degree, often with coursework in science.
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant 1 job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,417 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Culinary Lab Assistant

Joliet Junior College

Joliet, IL • On-site

$15.38 - $17.30/hr

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday


Joliet Junior College rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

496th of 614 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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