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Lab Assistant Jobs in Gurnee, IL (NOW HIRING)

Harper College

Lab Assistant - HVAC/R

Palatine, IL · On-site

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

NorthShore

Laboratory Assistant II

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$19.31 - $28/hr

Laboratory Assistant II * Location: Northwest Community Hospital * Part time or Full time: ... Monitoring and placing supply orders for replenishing laboratory supplies from performing lab to ...

CEDENT

Laboratory Assistant

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

The Laboratory Assistant is responsible for assisting the client laboratories by support of daily laboratory work in the general and molecular laboratories, and analytics product development. Certain ...

GI Alliance

Grossing Technician (31364)

Waukegan, IL · On-site

Responsibilities/Duties/Functions/Tasks Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. • Provide back up for Lab Assistant duties ...

GI Alliance

Grossing Technician (31364)

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$33 - $38/hr

Responsibilities/Duties/Functions/Tasks Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. • Provide back up for Lab Assistant duties ...

Intellectt INC

Lab/ Production Technician

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Sets up and tears down test equipment for testing per test protocols. · Documentation: Assist in ... Activities may include lab cleanup, labeling product, organizing/optimizing lab casework ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Gurnee, IL salary details

$9

$19

$28

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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.

More about Lab Assistant jobs
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:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
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.

Lab Assistant - HVAC/R

Harper College

Palatine, IL • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Harper College rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 615 rated colleges and universities

Job description

General Function:

Performs routine preventative maintenance, repairs on laboratory systems, equipment and testing instruments as scheduled and as required. Ensure that the training systems, equipment, tools and testing instruments are in safe operating condition. Provide technical support and assist students while performing their laboratory assignments.

Minimum Acceptable Qualifications:

Education:    

High School diploma or equivalent required with college level technical training certifications and industry-based certifications, or Associate in Applied Science in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration. Must be EPA certified to properly handle refrigerant.

Experience:   

2 years' technical experience maintaining and repairing various types of mechanical and electrical HVACR equipment and customer service support required. Must have basic knowledge of Microsoft software such as Word and Excel. Knowledge of Building Automation Systems software plus preferred. Ability to work independently and must have excellent customer service and communications skills (oral & written).

Characteristic Duties:

Under the direction of the Department Chair/coordinator, assists the full-time laboratory technician in maintaining the program equipment, tools, testing instruments, and supplies.

Identify safety hazards, equipment malfunctions, damaged tools and testing instruments, and perform equipment repairs as assigned.

Ensure that all equipment and tools are secure, functional, and safe to use or operate.

Ensure that inventory supplies and materials are available in the laboratories daily.

Assist faculty in setting up laboratory systems, equipment and trainers for students to perform their hands-on assignments as scheduled.

Monitor students while they perform their laboratory assignments and ensure they are following proper safety protocols.

Communicate and share information with the program coordinator and full-time laboratory technician to address potential hazards and resolve problems or issues that arise.

Participate in program workshops, information sessions, recruitment and special events.

Performs clerical assignments, such as, making copies, filing documents, maintaining records, assisting with reports, course revisions, and other duties as assigned by department chair/coordinator.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:

Must be fluent in English and have a valid driver's license. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. on a regular basis, lift 100 lbs. occasionally, and work in industrial environments, including extreme temperatures with continuous walking, reaching, bending and/or kneeling. Must be willing to travel to educational locations. Must be available for evening and weekend rotating schedule, and on-call work. 

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