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Lab Assistant Jobs in Chester, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sparta Community Hospital

LABORATORY ASSISTANT

Sparta, IL · On-site

$17 - $20.40/hr

Position Summary - Laboratory - Lab Assistant - PRN Sparta Community Hospital is in search of a Laboratory Assistant who is dedicated to providing exceptional patient care on a PRN (as needed) basis.

Mercy

Certified Medical Assistant

Perryville, MO · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Medical Assistant Location: Mercy Hospital Perry, Perryville, MO Mercy Primary Care Clinic Status: Full-Time - 40 hours per week Shift: Monday - Friday Qualifications: Education: High school diploma ...

Mercy

Certified Medical Assistant

Perryville, MO

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Medical Assistant Location: Mercy Hospital Perry, Perryville, MO Mercy Primary Care Clinic Status: Full-Time - 40 hours per week Shift: Monday - Friday Qualifications: Education: High school diploma ...

Mercy

Certified Medical Assistant

Perryville, MO

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Medical Assistant Location: Mercy Hospital Perry, Perryville, MO Mercy Primary Care Clinic Status: Full-Time - 40 hours per week Shift: Monday - Friday Qualifications: Education: High school diploma ...

Mercy

Certified Medical Assistant

Perryville, MO · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Medical Assistant Location: Mercy Hospital Perry, Perryville, MO Mercy Primary Care Clinic Status: Full-Time - 40 hours per week Shift: Monday - Friday Qualifications: Education: High school diploma ...

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All JobsLab JobsLab Assistant JobsLab Assistant Jobs in Chester, IL

Lab Assistant information

See Chester, IL salary details

$8

$17

$25

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Chester, IL is $17.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks under tight deadlines, maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, and ensuring the accuracy of data collection. To manage these effectively, it's important to stay organized, communicate proactively with supervisors and colleagues, and remain attentive to details when handling samples or preparing equipment. Many labs offer training on safety and procedures, so taking advantage of these resources can help new hires adapt quickly and perform confidently in their roles.

What are lab assistants?

Lab assistants are professionals who support scientists, researchers, or instructors by preparing laboratory equipment, conducting routine experiments, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment. They may also be responsible for recording data, managing supplies, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. Lab assistants work in various settings, including educational institutions, research facilities, hospitals, and private laboratories.

What Is a Lab Assistant?

As a laboratory assistant or lab technician, you are responsible for helping scientists conduct experiments in a laboratory environment. You may be asked to prepare, clean, and maintain lab equipment and log readings and results. Your responsibilities may also include performing basic analyses of samples and recording results accurately. Your responsibilities will vary based on the type of lab you work in, but compliance with protocols and commitment to safety and accuracy are critical in any lab.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced lab assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

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

To thrive as a Lab Assistant, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and often an associate degree or relevant coursework in science. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), standard lab equipment, and proper sample handling techniques is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate results, maintain lab safety standards, and support smooth laboratory operations.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

Lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or certifications in laboratory procedures or safety. Relevant skills include attention to detail, basic knowledge of laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols. Some roles may also require familiarity with specific tools or software used in labs.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing experiments, maintaining equipment, recording data, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often work under supervision, use tools like microscopes and lab instruments, and may need basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety standards.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers or Principal Investigators tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Positions requiring advanced degrees, specialized skills, or extensive experience generally offer higher pay compared to entry-level lab assistant roles.

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

AspectLab AssistantMedical Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, healthcare facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with sample collection, prepare specimens, maintain lab equipmentPerform complex tests, analyze samples, report results
Industry UsageCommonly used in healthcare and research settingsPrimarily in medical diagnostics and healthcare

While both roles support laboratory operations, Medical Laboratory Technicians perform more advanced testing and require specialized education. Lab Assistants typically handle basic tasks and support lab staff, making them entry-level positions in healthcare labs.

More about Lab Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Chester, IL? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Chester, IL are:
What cities near Chester, IL are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Chester, IL with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Chester, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,365 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
LABORATORY ASSISTANT

LABORATORY ASSISTANT

Sparta Community Hospital

Sparta, IL • On-site

$17 - $20.40/hr

Other

PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Laboratory Assistant

Laboratory

PRN: As Needed. Primarily day shift, rotating weekends, and can be occasional evening shift.


Position Summary – Laboratory – Lab Assistant – PRN

Sparta Community Hospital is in search of a Laboratory Assistant who is dedicated to providing exceptional patient care on a PRN (as needed) basis.

At Sparta Community Hospital, our clinical team makes a significant impact on the individuals in the communities served. By choosing to work with us, you have the chance to provide essential medical services to those who may not have easy access to them otherwise.

The Laboratory Team at Sparta Community Hospital plays a crucial role by conducting diagnostic tests to support healthcare providers in diagnosing and monitoring patient conditions. The Laboratory Assistants are responsible for accurately collecting samples from patients for various medical testing and procedures.

The clinical staff at Sparta Community Hospital build strong relationships with patients and their families. Our team is not just healthcare providers, but also trusted confidants and sources of support.

In addition to our exceptional patient care, we also prioritize continuous improvement and innovation. We invest in the latest medical technologies, ensuring that our providers have access to the tools they need to deliver the best possible outcomes.

At Sparta Community Hospital, we consider our employees to be our most valuable asset. As we aim to establish a strong PRN pool, we provide numerous advantages for those working PRN at Sparta Community Hospital. These benefits include, but are not limited to:

  • COMPETETIVE HOURLY WAGE based on experience and availability.
  • SHIFT DIFFERENTIALS. PRN employees qualify for shift differentials on top of their base rate!
  • EARNED PTO FOR EVERY HOUR WORKED! We acknowledge that you earn your time off! We do not segregate PTO into "separate buckets" that create use it or lose it situations.
  • PTO PAY OUT AT THE END OF THE YEAR. Whether you take a payout at the end of the year or take the time off for yourself - your time is your time.
  • EDUCATION. Looking to advance your career? Sparta Community offers various opportunities for loan and tuition assistance.
  • FLEXIBLE SCHEDULES that allow you to balance your personal and professional responsibilities.

PRN EMPLOYEES ARE REQUIRED TO WORK AT LEAST ONE SHIFT EVERY THREE MONTHS TO RETAIN THEIR EMPLOYMENT STATUS.