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Lab Assistant Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

Molex

Industrial CT Lab Assistant

Lisle, IL · On-site

$28 - $33/hr

Our Molex facility in Lisle IL is looking for a Lab Assistant. In this role you will have the opportunity to work with and maintain state-of-the-art HD X-ray devices and CT Scanning to support our ...

North Central College

Coffee Lab Student Barista

Naperville, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

... Assist in the development of various signature drinks for The Coffee Lab Assist in Coffee Lab engaged learning opportunities for the NCC and broader community Assist in maintaining and cleaning of ...

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All JobsLab JobsLab Assistant JobsLab Assistant Jobs in Park Ridge, IL

Lab Assistant information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Park Ridge, IL is $19.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $22.69 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 Park Ridge, IL? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL? For Lab Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:
What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Park Ridge, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Summer. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,440 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Nursing Lab Assistant Student Employee #0888

Nursing Lab Assistant Student Employee #0888

Oakton Community College

Des Plaines, IL

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Overview:

Assist nursing lab manager and nursing faulty with simulation and lab set-ups. Assist organizing medical equipment and setting up critical thinking stations. Available at open lab to help nursing students.

Campus Location: Des Plaines

Length of Employment: August 2026- May 2027

Can a student do homework in this position? Rarely

Hours Available: Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 8:00 am- 2:00 pm. 

Schedule Flexibility: Flexible, will work with student's class and lecture schedule.

Tasks, Duties and Responsibilities (TDRs) and Learning Outcomes:

- Perform accepted assignments as described in the terms outlined by the supervisor and staff (PF)

- Maintain confidentiality and secure handling of paperwork containing personal and academic information (PF)

- Communicate with supervise and faculty regarding any challenges or issues that arise during assignments and collaborate in finding solutions (CT, PF)

- Complete other projects as assigned

Candidate Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills and Other Abilities or KSOAs)

Qualified candidates will have the following competencies and skills:

  • Must be a currently enrolled at Oakton College in at least 6 credit hours during the Fall and Spring semesters. Employment over the summer is allowed for students taking at least 1 credit class during the summer, or students continuing registration into the following Fall semester.
  • Eligible to work in the United States.
  • Currently enrolled in Oakton's nursing program.
  • Must have an overall GPA of 2.0 or higher and be in good standing at Oakton College.
  • Demonstrated reliability and responsibility.
  • Friendly, flexible, organized, courteous, and punctuality a must.
  • Exceptional communication and organizational skills with strong detail orientation preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently.

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