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Lab Assistant Jobs in McHenry, IL (NOW HIRING)

Mercyhealth

Laboratory Assistant - FT

Lake Geneva, WI · On-site

$17.57 - $26.36/hr

Performs research program, Lab One, and special collection kit specimen collection. * Provides ... Experience as a Paramedic, EMT, CNA or MA helpful. CERTIFICATION/LICENSURE Phlebotomy Certification ...

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

Laboratory Assistant (32152)

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$17.82 - $20/hr

Position purpose The Laboratory Assistant is responsible for assisting staff with answering telephone calls, daily maintenance, miscellaneous administrative duties, data entry and filing.

Computech Corporation

Lab Technician

Barrington, IL

$19 - $25/hr

Will assist in routine sweeps of the lab to ensure compliance with safety regulations. 2 - 4 years of experience. Perform general lab testing, especially for physical testing measurements including ...

Co-Staff Job Board

Lab Technician

Elkhorn, WI · On-site

$19/hr

Lab Technician - 3rd Shift Location: Elkhorn, WI Pay Rate: $19.00/hour Schedule * 3rd Shift: 11:00 ... Communicate results and findings to appropriate team members * Assist with additional laboratory ...

Elgin Community College

Lab Coordinator I - CIS

Elgin, IL · On-site

$17.37 - $23.16/hr

Bachelor's Degreein relevant field Essential Duties: 1. Supervise and assist students during open lab hours. 2. Maintain lab facilities to ensure a clean and safe working environment. 3. Assist ...

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Lab Assistant information

See McHenry, IL salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in McHenry, IL is $19.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Pay can also vary based on full-time or part-time status and the complexity of tasks performed.

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 the supervision of scientists or technicians and may need knowledge of lab procedures and basic scientific techniques.

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 such as OSHA safety training can also be beneficial.
More about Lab Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in McHenry, IL?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in McHenry, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in McHenry, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in McHenry, IL are:

What cities near McHenry, IL are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near McHenry, IL with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in McHenry, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,454 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Lab Assistant - Manufacturing, Maintenance and Welding

Harper College

Palatine, IL • On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Harper College rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 621 rated colleges and universities

Job description

This position is funded through a Perkins grant. Continued employment is contingent upon ongoing grant funding approval. 

Assists in facilitating the successful growth of the Manufacturing, Maintenance, and Welding programs through supporting the Manufacturing, Maintenance, and Welding faculty in the establishment, implementation and ongoing maintenance of MFT/WLD/MNT programs, labs, and equipment.  Provides guidance in equipment set-up and usage, in addition to training and education for students for various types of equipment used.  Manages lab activities during class sessions and initiates ongoing relationships with critical industry and association partners to ensure the program remains both relevant and robust.   

  Education:          Minimum Associates Degree in related field (Welding, Manufacturing, Maintenance, Automotive, etc.) preferred. .

Experience:         Minimum 2 years of experience in a shop setting.

Skills Needed:     Welding, Machining, Print Reading, Basic Shop Math, Basic Computer skills, Troubleshooting ability, basic circuit testing, etc.

Characteristic Duties:

Provides guidance and expertise on machine installation, maintenance, and repair.

Assists faculty in necessary training and demonstrations.

Assists and monitors students working within the MNT, Manufacturing and Welding classrooms and labs.

Leads student tours and tours with industry and community partners. Including networking with business and industries, collaborating with faculty and program coordinators to assist in providing a comprehensive overview of the equipment needed to successfully offer programs. This includes care, operation and maintenance of new and existing equipment.

Maintains all equipment records and corrective action reports.

Assists faculty in setting up shop equipment/trainers for activities as planned by instructors.

Maintains inventory, orders supplies, tracks and works within instructional supply budget. 

Assists students with independent practice of skills during open labs.

Identifies occurrences of equipment malfunction or breakage and needs for equipment replacement or addition; repairs equipment, including trainers.

Assists and suggests capital equipment needs. Assists and monitors all students in facility for safety compliance and education. 

Coordinates efforts between print shop and Manufacturing and Welding Technology department needs. Assists faculty in driving efforts to address regulatory compliance and participates in equipment inspections as needed.

Performs related duties as assigned to assist MFT/WLD/MNT faculty and students.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:

Primarily indoors within a shop setting. Required to frequently lift up to 50 lbs. of tools and equipment.

Equipment/Tools Used:

CNC machines, welding equipment, drill press, band saw, manual mill, manual lathe, measuring tools, CAD/CAM and verification software, multimeter, etc.

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