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Lab Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Associate II

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$20.23/hr

Lab Associate II - Wood Dale, IL, Tuesday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM 10% Weekend Shift Differential This non-licensed position is accountable for assisting with general support for the ...

Compunnel, Inc.

Lab Associate

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$21/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a Lab Associate to support laboratory operations by performing sample processing, laboratory testing activities, data management, inventory control, and administrative ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Associate I

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$18.39/hr

Lab Associate I - Wood Dale, IL, Tuesday to Saturday, 7:00 PM to 3:30 AM 15% Night Shift Differential 10% Weekend Shift Differential This non-licensed position is accountable for assisting with ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Associate I

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$18.39/hr

Lab Associate I - Wood Dale, IL, Tuesday to Saturday, 1:30 AM to 10:00 AM 15% Night shift differential 10% Weekend shift differential This non-licensed position is accountable for assisting with ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Associate I

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$18.39/hr

Lab Associate I - Wood Dale, IL, Tuesday to Saturday, 1:00 AM to 9:30 AM 15% Night Shift Differential 10% Weekend Shift Differential Pay range: $18.39 - $27.58 / hour ; employee may be eligible to ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Associate I

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$18.39/hr

Lab Associate I - Wood Dale, IL, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with rotational weekends Department: Microbiology This non-licensed position is accountable for assisting with general support ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Associate I

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$18.39/hr

Lab Associate I - Wood Dale, IL, Tuesday to Saturday, 4:00 PM to 12:30 AM 10% Evening Shift Differential 10% Weekend Shift Differential This non-licensed position is accountable for assisting with ...

BJC HealthCare

Lab Associate II -PRN

Alton, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $25.56/hr

Additional Information About the Role Alton Memorial Hospital has a PRN Lab Associate I opportunity. Looking for a lab tech with phlebotomy experience to work in a hospital setting. * PRN (as-needed ...

BJC HealthCare

Lab Associate II -PRN

Alton, IL · On-site

Additional Information About the Role Alton Memorial Hospital has a PRN Lab Associate I opportunity. Looking for a lab tech with phlebotomy experience to work in a hospital setting. * PRN (as-needed ...

BJC HealthCare

Lab Associate I - PRN

Alton, IL · On-site

Additional Information About the Role Alton Memorial Hospital has a PRN Lab Associate I opportunity. Looking for a lab tech with phlebotomy experience to work in a hospital setting. * PRN (as-needed ...

BJC HealthCare

Lab Associate I - PRN

Alton, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $23.88/hr

Additional Information About the Role Alton Memorial Hospital has a PRN Lab Associate I opportunity. Looking for a lab tech with phlebotomy experience to work in a hospital setting. * PRN (as-needed ...

Tempus

Lab Operations Associate I

Chicago, IL

$20.25/hr

Lab Operations Associate Mon-Thurs 7a-5:30p Asset Archivist Wed-Sat 1p-11:30p Asset Archivist Tues-Friday 10am-8:30pm Illinois Pay: $20.25/hour The expected salary range may vary for other locations.

Posted today

Tempus

Clinical Lab Associate I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20.25/hr

Job Title Passionate about precision medicine and advancing the healthcare industry? Recent advancements in underlying technology have finally made it possible for AI to impact clinical care in a ...

Tempus

Clinical Lab Associate I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20.25/hr

Passionate about precision medicine and advancing the healthcare industry? Recent advancements in underlying technology have finally made it possible for AI to impact clinical care in a meaningful ...

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All JobsLab Associate JobsLab Associate Jobs in Illinois

Lab Associate information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$21

$33

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Illinois is $21.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab associate?

To thrive as a Lab Associate, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and typically a degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), standard lab equipment, and relevant safety certifications is often required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe lab practices, and efficient support for scientific research or clinical testing.

What is a lab associate?

Lab Associates are professionals who assist in the daily operations of laboratories by performing tasks such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, maintaining equipment, and recording data. They typically work under the supervision of scientists or lab managers and help ensure that laboratory procedures are followed safely and accurately. Lab Associates play a crucial role in supporting research and development, quality control, or diagnostic testing in fields like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and academia. Their responsibilities may vary depending on the specific lab setting and industry.

What is the difference between Lab Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; certifications varyAssociate degree or relevant certification; similar educational background
Work EnvironmentHospitals, research labs, clinicsMedical labs, research facilities, industrial labs
Job ResponsibilitiesSample collection, data entry, basic testingPerforming tests, maintaining equipment, recording results
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, research, biotechMedical, industrial, research sectors

Both Lab Associates and Laboratory Technicians work in similar environments and often share educational requirements. The main difference lies in specific job duties, with Laboratory Technicians typically performing more complex tests and equipment maintenance. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers identify the right role for their skills and career goals.

What are some typical challenges a lab associate might face during day-to-day work, and how can they be addressed?

Lab Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, ensuring precise documentation, and maintaining equipment. Staying organized by keeping detailed lab notes and using lab management software can help streamline workflow. Clear communication with team members and supervisors is vital to address any issues promptly and maintain a safe, efficient laboratory environment. Regularly scheduled equipment checks and proactive troubleshooting also contribute to smoother operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Lab Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,085 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Lab Associate II

Quest Diagnostics

Wood Dale, IL • On-site

$20.23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description


Lab Associate II - Wood Dale, IL, Tuesday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
10% Weekend Shift Differential
This non-licensed position is accountable for assisting with general support for the laboratory, following all applicable policies and procedures.
Pay range: $20.23 - $30.35 / hour
Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.
Benefits information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
  • Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
  • Best-in-class well-being programs
  • Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
  • healthyMINDS mental health program
  • Vacation and Health/Flex Time
  • 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
  • FinFit financial coaching and services
  • 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Annual incentive plans
  • Matching gifts program
  • Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • and so much more!

Responsibilities
  • Prepares and organizes samples for testing, for example, sample racking, aliquoting and tube preparation.
  • Responsible for labeling, handling, processing or preparation, and transportation and storage of specimens.
  • Identifies sample problems and assists in resolving appropriately. Demonstrates problem solving ability on service and production issues.
  • Prepares testing equipment and assists with preventive maintenance. Notifies appropriate technical staff of equipment problems.
  • Assists licensed personnel (CA only) or delegated supervisor (non-CA) in the pre-analytic and post- analytic testing activities, other than trainees, in a licensed clinical laboratory.
  • Prepares pre-analytical reagents and controls using automated or fixed volume measuring devices. Submits documentation to appropriate staff for approval to use.
  • Prepares and maintains complete and accurate records of reagents or media using established procedures, formulas, stock solutions and fixed volume measuring devices.
  • Maintains inventory of consumable items including reagents and supplies. Orders, unpacks, logs, dates and stores reagents/supplies upon receipt and properly rotates stock for use. Performs inventory of laboratory items including restocking the benches and equipment inventory.
  • Sorting and accessioning incoming specimens into appropriate LIS, then delivering to designated testing platform/department.
  • Performs data entry or transcribes data from previously recorded results to computer for data reduction and prepares for licensed personnel's review.
  • Tallies workload data and prepares reports as requested.
  • Assists in the performance of quality control procedures.
  • Prepares protocols/logs or other appropriate documents.
  • Identifies specimen problems and demonstrates ability to appropriately resolve or elevate to licensed personnel (CA only) or delegated supervisor (non-CA).
  • Assists a licensed person (e.g.: CLS) with performance of validation verifications and other Research and Development (R&D) activities, as applicable.
  • Trains other Lab Associates. Supports Training Programs, where applicable.
  • Takes initiative in making suggestions to improve efficiency and productivity and provides consistent feedback. Is a resource for process improvement.
  • Demonstrates leadership through accountability and collaboration in daily activities.
  • Answers phones, transfers, or takes accurate messages. Maintains the confidentiality of client information.
  • Helps to ensure the laboratory areas are neat, clean, and organized.
  • Complies with all health and safety policies, procedures, and practices. Required to use personal protective equipment.
  • Other duties as assigned. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities, but rather a general description of work performed by the position.

Qualifications
Required Work Experience:
For Lab Associates in the Histopathology or Cytology department, the following is required:
  • 1 year of histopathology, cytology or other laboratory experience.
  • 1 year of experience handling Protected Health Information (PHI) and other patient information using a Laboratory Information System (LIS)

Preferred Work Experience:
  • 2 - 3 years of laboratory experience preferred.

Physical and Mental Requirements:
  • The normal performance of duties may require lifting and carrying objects. Objects in the weight range of 1 to 10 pounds are lifted and carried frequently; objects in the weight range of 11 to 25 pounds are lifted and carried occasionally and objects in the weight range of 26 to 50 pounds are seldom lifted and carried. Objects exceeding 50 pounds are not to be lifted or carried without assistance.
  • Performs repetitive tasks with dominant hand.
  • Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods.
  • Have good eye and hand coordination.

Knowledge:
  • A working knowledge of reagent stability and storage.
  • An awareness of the factors that influence test results.

Skills:
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Application (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Strong typing skills desirable.
  • Communication and interpersonal skills necessary to deal courteously and effectively with management, co-workers, and clients.
  • Other automation skills helpful.

Education
  • Bachelor's Degree Biological Science or Chemistry (other life science degree coursework will be evaluated) (Preferred)
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent High School Diploma with a minimum of 2-3 years of laboratory experience Required. (Required)

About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

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