1

Lab Assistant Jobs in Gurnee, IL (NOW HIRING)

Student Aide - Fashion Design

Palatine, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

They will be polite and courteous to students working in the lab and will seek help from FAS Lab Assistant when issues arise. They will take direction well and have a positive attitude. They must be ...

Student Aide - Fashion Design

Palatine, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

They will be polite and courteous to students working in the lab and will seek help from FAS Lab Assistant when issues arise. They will take direction well and have a positive attitude. They must be ...

Responsibilities: * Assist cardiologists in performing diagnostic cardiac catheterizations and ... Lab and interventional radiology as needed. * Closely monitor patients for improvements or ...

We are seeking a Part Time Laboratory Assistant to support our Molecular (PCR) laboratory. The ... This part time role ensures the lab maintains timely processing, testing quality, and scalability ...

Responsibilities: * Assist cardiologists in performing diagnostic cardiac catheterizations and ... Lab and interventional radiology as needed. * Closely monitor patients for improvements or ...

Provide technical support and assist students while performing their laboratory assignments. Minimum Acceptable Qualifications: Education: High School diploma or equivalent required with college ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lab Assistant information

See Gurnee, IL salary details

$9

$19

$28

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Gurnee, IL is $19.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $22.16 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.

Is it hard to become a lab assistant?

Becoming a lab assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with some knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety protocols. Some positions may prefer or require postsecondary education or certifications in relevant fields, and strong attention to detail and organizational skills are important for success in the role.

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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To become a lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require postsecondary education or relevant coursework in science. Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are important. Certifications in safety or specific techniques can enhance job prospects.

What are the duties of a lab assistant?

A lab assistant is responsible for preparing laboratory equipment and samples, maintaining a clean and organized work environment, and assisting scientists or technicians with experiments and data collection. They may also handle inventory management, record keeping, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Proficiency with lab tools and attention to detail are essential for this role.

How much do lab assistants get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the industry and work environment.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing samples, 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.

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.

What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Gurnee, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Gurnee, IL are:
What cities near Gurnee, IL are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Gurnee, IL with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Gurnee, 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 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,421 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Part Time Medical Lab Assistant

Actalent

Port Barrington, IL • On-site

$18/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Job Title: Part-Time Medical Lab Assistant
Job Description
This part-time Medical Lab Assistant role supports a high-volume clinical laboratory that processes at-home testing kits. You work directly with human urine and blood specimens, ensuring accurate receiving, sorting, labeling, and data entry into the laboratory information system. You help prepare and organize samples for testing, assist with strip manufacturing activities, and support the overall workflow of the lab so that patients receive timely and reliable results.
Responsibilities
  • Receive and quarantine all incoming specimen packages in accordance with laboratory procedures.
  • Open, sort, and organize specimens, ensuring each sample is handled safely and appropriately.
  • Check specimens against defined acceptance criteria and identify any issues or discrepancies.
  • Separate and properly code all non-testable specimens, following established protocols.
  • Enter and verify (accession) all specimen information into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) with a high degree of accuracy.
  • Collect, label, and prepare all specimens and kit samples for laboratory technicians.
  • Assist in strip manufacturing duties, including cutting and preparing strips for coating.
  • Cut and coat kit samples as required to support diagnostic testing workflows.
  • Receive and log deliveries of laboratory supplies, ensuring inventory records remain up to date.
  • Assist with manual entry and verification of laboratory results into the appropriate systems.
  • Notify the supervisor promptly of any potential deviations from documented procedures or quality standards.
  • Follow all laboratory safety, specimen handling, and documentation protocols.
  • Perform other laboratory support duties as assigned by laboratory leadership to maintain efficient operations.
Essential Skills
  • Demonstrated comfort handling human specimens, including urine and blood, in a laboratory setting.
  • Strong attention to detail when sorting, labeling, and processing specimens.
  • High level of comfort using computers, software systems, and AI-based platforms for data entry and verification.
  • Accurate data entry skills, including accessioning specimen information into a Laboratory Information System (LIS).
  • Ability to read, write, and speak English to follow procedures and document information clearly.
  • Experience with specimen processing, including sample preparation, inspection, labeling, and collection.
  • Basic laboratory skills such as pipetting and routine sample handling.
  • Minimum of an associate degree in a science-related field (for example, Biology, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline).
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • Background or coursework in laboratory science, chemistry, biology, forensic science, or medical-related fields.
  • Familiarity with diagnostic testing workflows and specimen accessioning processes.
  • Comfort working with AI-based and other modern digital platforms in a laboratory environment.
  • Bachelor's degree in a science field is preferred, as it may enable future growth into more hands-on testing responsibilities based on work ethic, performance, reliability, and laboratory needs.
  • Reliability and consistent attendance to support fixed scheduling requirements.
  • Ability to work effectively within a collaborative, team-oriented laboratory environment.

Work Environment
This role is based in an office building that houses a call center, clinical laboratory, quality department, and clerical operations, providing exposure to multiple aspects of the testing process. You work on a fixed part-time schedule: Sunday through Tuesday from 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with the possibility of extending to Sunday through Thursday if business needs require; the schedule cannot be changed, and initial training is typically about one week on the same hours. The laboratory environment involves routine handling of human specimens with appropriate safety protocols and use of laboratory equipment and information systems. Dress attire includes long pants, a t-shirt, and closed-toe shoes, with lab coats worn when handling specimens. The culture emphasizes a supportive, family-style team environment, with regular staff events, lab week celebrations, dress-down days, talent and fashion shows, contests, and company-provided food for special occasions. Holiday pay and vacation time, including five paid holidays, are part of the overall benefits, and there is potential for growth into more hands-on laboratory work for candidates who demonstrate strong performance and hold relevant degrees.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Hoffman Estates, IL.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $18.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Hoffman Estates,IL.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Aug 4, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Actalent logo

About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

Social media