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Lab Assistant I Jobs in Mokena, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Assistant I information

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$10

$19

$29

How much do lab assistant i jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant i in Mokena, IL is $19.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $22.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Lab Assistant I?

Lab Assistant I positions are entry-level roles in laboratory settings, where individuals assist scientists, researchers, or medical professionals with basic lab tasks. These duties may include preparing and cleaning equipment, collecting and labeling samples, conducting routine tests, and maintaining records. Lab Assistants I play a crucial role in ensuring labs run smoothly by supporting daily operations and adhering to safety protocols. This job is often a starting point for those interested in scientific or medical laboratory careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Assistant I?

To thrive as a Lab Assistant I, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, basic scientific concepts, and often an associate degree or relevant coursework in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry systems, and safety protocols such as OSHA regulations is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this position. These abilities ensure accurate results, maintain a safe work environment, and support efficient laboratory operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Assistant I professionals in maintaining laboratory safety and organization?

Lab Assistant I professionals often face challenges in ensuring that laboratory safety protocols are strictly followed while managing multiple tasks, such as preparing samples, cleaning equipment, and maintaining inventory. It can be demanding to keep workspaces organized and hazard-free, especially during busy periods or when handling hazardous materials. Effective communication with lab supervisors and other team members is vital to address safety concerns promptly and ensure smooth operations. Staying updated on safety guidelines and consistently practicing good laboratory habits helps overcome these challenges.

What is the difference between Lab Assistant I vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab Assistant ILab Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree or certification in laboratory sciences
Work EnvironmentEntry-level labs, basic sample preparationMore complex testing, equipment operation
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, clinics, research labsResearch institutions, diagnostic labs
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level rolesMore advanced responsibilities

Lab Assistant I typically performs basic lab tasks with minimal credentials, while Lab Technicians handle more complex testing requiring specialized training or certification. The roles are used across similar settings, but Lab Technicians usually have more responsibilities and qualifications.

Is being a lab assistant I worth it?

Lab Assistant I positions typically involve basic laboratory tasks such as preparing samples, maintaining equipment, and recording data. The role can provide valuable entry-level experience in scientific or medical settings and may lead to advancement with additional skills or certifications.

What cities near Mokena, IL are hiring for Lab Assistant I jobs?

Cities near Mokena, IL with the most Lab Assistant I job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant I job openings in Mokena, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,432 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Assistant II - PRN

Houston Methodist

Willowbrook, IL • On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Processes, organizes, labels, and transports specimens for laboratory testing.

  • Performs advanced functions such as phlebotomy and/or section-specific specialty tasks.

  • Handles Laboratory Information System functions, including data input and extraction, and performs clerical tasks such as answering phones and filing documents.


Houston Methodist rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 301 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

This PRN position will work all shifts (day, evening & night) during varied weekdays and weekends based on varying needs of the Laboratory.
The Medical Laboratory Assistant II has responsibility for the processing, organizing, labeling, and transporting of specimens for laboratory testing. As an experienced and fully competent laboratory assistant, performs advanced functions such as phlebotomy and/or section-specific specialty tasks and serves as a role model and preceptor for other staff. Duties include the input and extraction of data from the Laboratory Information System as well as clerical tasks such as answering phones and filing documents.FLSA STATUS
Non-exempt
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
  • High School diploma or equivalent education (examples include: GED, verification of homeschool equivalency, partial or full completion of post-secondary education, etc.)

EXPERIENCE
  • Minimum of 3 years of related experience required

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS
RequiredPreferred
  • Relevant certification (e.g., phlebotomy, medical laboratory assistant)

SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going evaluations consisting of one or more of the following: skills, competency assessments and/or performance reviews
  • Exhibits strong interpersonal and team player skills with all levels of the healthcare team and assures delivery of excellent customer service to all patients, visitors, physicians and co-workers
  • Strong organizational skills to handle a heavy workload and maintain accuracy
  • Demonstrates a working knowledge of specimen requirements for testing, processing, and proper waste disposing
  • Possesses basic computer knowledge; operates multiple computer systems to include Hospital / Laboratory Information Systems and Office software to maintain patient and testing records and other related documents
  • Independently adapts to multiple ongoing priorities including organizing work flow
  • Demonstrates independent judgment and discretion to recognize problems, identify causes and take corrective action
  • Strong training, leadership, and mentoring skills
  • Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security
  • Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team focused work unit that actively helps one other to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the patient care team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent patient care information and data in a comprehensive manner.
  • Serves as a preceptor to less experienced and/or new staff and students by utilizing skills and knowledge to help train and educate others.

SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Prepares specimens for courier pick up and delivery to referral lab as necessary. Communicates with other laboratory personnel when specimens need to be transported to other areas.
  • Performs various Laboratory Information System functions. Files requisitions, reports and other pathology materials appropriately. Answers the telephone and refers requests for the delivery of results to physician offices appropriately.
  • Independently handles resolution of complex problems and issues and notifies management of issue and resolution. Serves as escalation support for less experienced staff.
  • Organizes workload, sets priorities, and troubleshoots workflow issues. Utilizes all available work time by assisting others and performing additional tasks.

QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Receives, triages, orders, labels and transports specimens for laboratory testing. Processes specimens, aliquots, and/or slides/blocks according to procedure for samples tested in the laboratory as well as samples forwarded to referral laboratories. Handles STAT samples expeditiously. Assists pathologist and/or other laboratory personnel with specimen grossing as needed.
  • Recognizes problems (such as mislabels, incorrect tube type, etc.), identifies causes, and takes corrective action to solve basic problems.
  • Operates automated instrumentation as applicable at entity following all safety measures. Performs and documents any processing equipment maintenance.
  • Performs one or more of the following advanced functions:
    • Pre-Analytic: In an outpatient and inpatient setting, performs phlebotomy and other specialized specimen collection procedures for patients; maintains competency of techniques and principles required to perform quality phlebotomy services
    • Specialty Areas (i.e., Anatomical Pathology, Microbiology, Molecular, etc.): Performs advanced functions such as assisting with frozen sections, special stain procedures, cytology processing, fine needle aspirations (FNAs), and other section specific specialty tasks as per section scope.
  • Maintains a safe environment within the Laboratory, following all policies and procedures for safety, hazardous materials, security and emergency preparedness.

FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Adjusts work schedule to accommodate departmental/organizational needs. Appropriately utilizes the time recording system.
  • Uses department resources/equipment/supplies properly and efficiently.

GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Guides and mentors section employees and students to help build confidence in skills, knowledge and abilities.
  • Participates in departmental projects activities, and seeks continuing education opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development.

SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
    WORK ATTIRE
    • Uniform:
    • Scrubs:
    • Business professional:
    • Other (department approved):

    ON-CALL*
    *Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. Disaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below.
    • On Call*

    TRAVEL**
    **Travel specifications may vary by department**
    • May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area
    • May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area

Work Shift:
3 - Night (United States of America)
Job Category:
Non-clinicalHouston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital is a Magnet-recognized, not-for-profit, faith-based hospital that serves the growing Northwest Houston community. We are committed to providing quality, cost-effective health care in a compassionate environment for a full range of services, including emergency care, cardiology, orthopedics and sports medicine, comprehensive women's services, neurology and neurosurgery, oncology, and primary and general medicine.
Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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