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Lab Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Tempus

Clinical Lab Associate I

Chicago, IL

$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 ...

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 ...

Intellectt INC

Lab/ Production Technician

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Associates of Science degree in science, math or engineering preferred. · Experience working in a laboratory with knowledge of GMP, GDP and GLP, and an ability to operate lab equipment with ...

Ecolab

Senior Lab Technician

Naperville, IL · On-site

$28/hr

Associate's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or relevant science discipline * 1 year of lab-based experience * Immigration sponsorship is not offered for this role Preferred ...

Ecolab

Senior Lab Technician

Naperville, IL

$28/hr

Associate's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or relevant science discipline * 1 year of lab-based experience * Immigration sponsorship is not offered for this role Preferred ...

ITW Automotive

Lab Technician

Elmhurst, IL

$24 - $29/hr

... Associate degree in a technical field or equivalent hands-on experience • Basic knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems • Ability to read engineering drawings • Experience with lab ...

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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 Jul 14, 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, and why are they important?

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 are Lab Associates?

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.

How much does a lab assistant 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 the lower end, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the industry and work environment.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers, Principal Investigators, or specialized research scientists tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities, resulting in higher compensation compared to entry-level lab associate roles.

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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate's degree or higher in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or laboratory technology. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols; certifications like OSHA training can also be beneficial.

What do lab associates do?

Lab associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They work under supervision in laboratory environments, often using tools like microscopes and pipettes, and may need relevant certifications or training depending on the industry. Their role supports research, quality control, or diagnostic processes.
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
Clinical Lab Associate I

Clinical Lab Associate I

Tempus

Chicago, IL

$20.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

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 way. Tempus' proprietary platform connects an entire ecosystem of real-world evidence to deliver real-time, actionable insights to physicians, providing critical information about the right treatments for the right patients, at the right time.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for unpacking and initial sample quality and requirement review.

  • Responsible for specimen handling from package receipt, order creation and accessioning to chain of custody hand-off.

  • Responsible for accurate assignment of samples to the appropriate workstream.

  • Responsible for adhering to department procedures.

  • Participates in UAT and special projects.

  • Build and maintain effective relationships with other laboratory employees

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED. (Bachelor's Degree is preferred)

  • Relevant experience in a similar work environment

  • Highly organized and systematic, superb attention to detail and ability to complete tasks with a high degree of accuracy.

  • Show initiative and ability to work as part of a high-level team while working independently on mission-critical tasks.

  • Proven ability to learn new skills quickly and adapt to new processes smoothly.

  • Computer proficiency with equivalent knowledge of standard software and general familiarity of standard office equipment and technology.

CHI: $20.25

The expected salary range above is applicable if the role is performed from Illinois and may vary for other locations (California, Colorado, New York). Actual salary may vary based on qualifications and experience. Tempus offers a full range of benefits, which may include incentive compensation, restricted stock units, medical and other benefits depending on the position.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

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