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Lab Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Joliet Junior College

Culinary Lab Assistant

Joliet, IL · On-site

$15.23 - $17.13/hr

Culinary Lab Assistant POSITION TITLE: Culinary Lab Assistant STATUS:Part time DEPARTMENT: Culinary Arts SUB-DIVISION: Career & Technical Education DIVISION: Academic Affairs CLASSIFICATION: Non ...

JJC Enterprises

Culinary Lab Assistant

Joliet, IL

$15.23 - $17.13/hr

Culinary Lab Assistant POSITION TITLE: Culinary Lab Assistant STATUS:Part time DEPARTMENT: Culinary Arts SUB-DIVISION: Career & Technical Education DIVISION: Academic Affairs CLASSIFICATION: Non ...

Actalent

Medical Lab Assistant

Elgin, IL

$18/hr

The lab assistants will be opening and sorting samples, collecting samples, inputting information into lab information system, verifying patient information, additional responsibilities include ...

New

Prime Healthcare

*Lab Assistant

Chicago, IL

$23.36/hr

Clinical Lab • Schedule: Variable- PRN • Facility: St. Mary of Nazareth Hospital • Location: Chicago, IL 60622 The Laboratory Assistant will follow the guidelines set by CLIA. Unlicensed ...

New

Olympia Fields Hospital

Lab Assistant

Olympia Fields, IL · On-site

$18 - $26.07/hr

Lab Shift: Days Facility: Olympia Fields Hospital Location: Olympia Fields, IL Responsibilities The Laboratory Assistant will follow the guidelines set by CLIA. Unlicensed laboratory personnel ...

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All JobsLab Assistant JobsLab Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Lab Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Chicago, IL is $20.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.75 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.

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 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL? For Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,383 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Lab Assistant and tutor, Welding

Lab Assistant and tutor, Welding

Prairie State College

Chicago Heights, IL

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Number H0443P Classification Hourly Position Number Position Title Lab Assistant and tutor, Welding Status of Position Hourly - Academic Year FLSA Non Exempt Position Summary
Prairie State College seeks qualified individual for a lab assistant and tutor starting 2024. Successful candidates will have a desire to engage a diverse student population in various levels of Millwright/Maintenance studies and welding activities. Lab Assistant duties include running and monitoring the Millwright/Machine tool/and welding lab. Assisting students in any task/machine usage, and tutoring responsibilities. Tutoring will be for manufacturing related activities and studies.
Reporting Relationship Essential Responsibilities Other Duties and Responsibilities Minimum Qualifications
Related knowledge in the field of Industrial Manufacturing.
Preferred Qualifications Anticipated Work Hours and Days
Not to exceed 19 hours per week
Salary Benefits Posting Date 05/07/2024 Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants
All applications must be submitted electronically through Prairie State College website.

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