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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Joliet, IL

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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

See Joliet, IL salary details

$10

$19

$28

How much do lab assistant specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in Joliet, IL is $19.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lab specimen processor do?

A lab specimen processor prepares and handles biological samples such as blood, urine, or tissue for testing. They label, sort, and organize specimens, ensure proper storage, and may operate laboratory equipment, following safety and quality protocols to support accurate diagnostic results.

What are some common challenges Lab Assistant Specimen Processors face, and how can they be managed?

Lab Assistant Specimen Processors often encounter challenges such as handling a high volume of specimens during peak hours while maintaining accuracy and adhering to strict protocols. Managing time efficiently, staying organized, and double-checking labels can help minimize errors. Effective communication with laboratory technologists and phlebotomists is also essential for resolving discrepancies quickly. Adapting to new laboratory information systems and staying updated on safety procedures can further support success in this role.

How to become a lab specimen processor?

To become a lab specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have attention to detail and good organizational skills. Some positions require on-the-job training, and familiarity with laboratory equipment or specimen handling procedures is beneficial. Certification is not usually mandatory but can improve job prospects.

What is the difference between Lab Assistant Specimen Processor vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab Assistant Specimen ProcessorLab Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training providedAssociate degree or certification in laboratory sciences
Work EnvironmentProcessing specimens in clinical or hospital labsPerforming tests and analyzing samples in laboratory settings
Employer & IndustryHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsMedical laboratories, research facilities, hospitals

The Lab Assistant Specimen Processor primarily handles specimen preparation and processing, focusing on sample labeling and organization. In contrast, Lab Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis. Both roles are essential in laboratory workflows, but Lab Technicians typically require more advanced education and skills.

What are Lab Assistant Specimen Processors?

Lab Assistant Specimen Processors are healthcare professionals responsible for receiving, labeling, and preparing biological specimens—such as blood, urine, or tissue—for laboratory testing. They play a vital role in ensuring that samples are properly handled and documented to maintain accuracy and prevent contamination. Their duties often include data entry, operating laboratory equipment, and adhering to strict safety and confidentiality protocols. This role is essential for supporting laboratory scientists and ensuring timely and accurate diagnostic testing.

Can I be a lab assistant with no experience?

Lab assistant specimen processor roles often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is typically provided. Basic skills in laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment can be helpful, but many employers hire entry-level candidates and train them for specific tasks.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab assistant specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include attention to detail, basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, and familiarity with laboratory equipment; some positions may require certification or training in laboratory safety and handling specimens.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Assistant Specimen Processor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Assistant Specimen Processor, you need attention to detail, basic laboratory knowledge, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring phlebotomy certification. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode scanners, and safe specimen handling protocols is usually required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help you excel in managing high-volume tasks and ensuring accurate sample processing. These competencies are crucial to maintain specimen integrity, minimize errors, and support efficient laboratory operations.
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Joliet, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Joliet, IL are:
What cities near Joliet, IL are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Joliet, IL with the most Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:
Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings in Joliet, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,759 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Summer Research Assistant - Energy & Environment Lab (2026)

UChicago Energy & Environment Lab

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Summer Research Assistant, Energy & Environment Lab 

Location:Chicago, IL 

Who We Are 

The University of Chicago Energy & Environment Lab (E&E Lab) partners with agencies at the local, state and federal level to identify, rigorously evaluate, and help scale programs and policies that reduce pollution and improve environmental outcomes, while ensuring access to reliable and affordable energy. The E&E Lab uses natural experiments, randomized controlled trials, behavioral economics, and machine learning to help policymakers identify and generate evidence around innovative approaches to their most pressing environmental and energy-related challenges. 

The E&E Lab is part of the University of Chicago's new Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth. The Lab's mission is to partner with government agencies to identify and rigorously evaluate policies with the greatest potential to improve human lives at scale; the Lab's evidence-based approach gives policymakers and practitioners the knowledge they need to effectively achieve the greatest social good per dollar spent. 

Job Summary 

The E&E Lab is seeking Summer Research Assistants (RAs) with strong research, methodological, and programming skills to support large-scale environmental policy research projects. The RAs will work on a portfolio of economics projects, designed to evaluate the impact of promising energy and environmental interventions. Typical research projects involve the analysis of environmental and energy data, utilizing quasi-experimental and experimental methods to provide government partners with guidance on key policy questions. 

Responsibilities: 

  • Coding, review, and cleaning of data. 
  • Data analytics, statistical analysis, and building econometric and/or machine learning models. 
  • Project development and coordination. 
  • Literature reviews. 
  • Presentation of results of analysis (e.g., graphs and tables). 
  • Assisting in writing, formatting, and editing reports and works for publication and for dissemination to partners. 

Job Requirements 

Competencies: 

  • Interest in and aptitude for developing advanced programming and analytic skills. 
  • Experience with at least one statistical analysis language required; R, or Python strongly preferred. 
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to synthesize multiple sources. 
  • Strong initiative and a resourceful approach to problem-solving and learning. 
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team. 
  • High attention to detail and organizational skills. 
  • Knowledge of environment and/or energy policy issues preferred. 

Education: 

  • Significant progress towards an undergraduate or graduate degree in economics, computer science or related discipline. 
  • Coursework in economics, applied math, computer science, statistics. 
  • Research experience in an academic setting preferred. 

Documents Required: 

  • Resume 
  • Cover Letter 
  • Academic transcript(s) 

The internship duration is ten weeks, with a flexible start date. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, with decisions made on a rolling basis. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. 

The E&E Lab main office is in Chicago; some research staff are based in the offices of our federal and state government partners. 

To apply, please complete the form and upload your resume, cover letter, and transcript below. Questions and inquiries about the summer position should be directed to eelabhiring@uchicago.edu. 

All applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. 

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination. 

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form. 

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637. 

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