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Lab Associate Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

Medical Laboratory Scientist - Full Time

Rockford, IL · On-site

$29.41 - $44.11/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Perform waived, moderate and high complexity lab tests as defined by CLIA in the lab specialties of ... Associates degree in Medical Technology AND MLT certification * Must be qualified to perform high ...

Quality Technician: 3rd Shift

Batavia, IL · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform lab checks- Quality SOPs are clearly defined and the monitoring of specified items is ... The associate in this job has the responsibility to report, in a timely manner, Food Safety and ...

Quality Technician I - 2nd Shift

Geneva, IL · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform lab checks- Quality SOPs are clearly defined and the monitoring of specified items is ... The associate in this jobhas the responsibility to report, in a timely manner, Food Safety and ...

Quality Technician: 3rd Shift

Batavia, IL · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform lab checks- Quality SOPs are clearly defined and the monitoring of specified items is ... The associate in this jobhas the responsibility to report, in a timely manner, Food Safety and ...

Quality Technician I - 2nd Shift

Geneva, IL · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform lab checks- Quality SOPs are clearly defined and the monitoring of specified items is ... The associate in this job has the responsibility to report, in a timely manner, Food Safety and ...

Be responsible for lab quality certification maintenance and the maintenance of quality system ... Associates or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Metallurgical or Industrial Engineering or similar ...

Be responsible for lab quality certification maintenance and the maintenance of quality system ... Associates or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Metallurgical or Industrial Engineering or similar ...

RFD_Clinical Assoc Proj Mgr

Rockford, IL · On-site

$33.50 - $45.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

May include working with warehouse, procurement, labeling, client, quality and lab to ensure all ... Required: * Associate's Degree in a related field and/or 1-3 years related experience and/or ...

RFD_Clinical Assoc Proj Mgr

Rockford, IL · On-site

$33.50 - $45.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

May include working with warehouse, procurement, labeling, client, quality and lab to ensure all ... Required: * Associate's Degree in a related field and/or 1-3 years related experience and/or ...

Quality Technician

Geneva, IL

$19 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Perform lab checks- Quality SOPs are clearly defined and the monitoring of specified items is ... The associate in this job has the responsibility to report, in a timely manner, Food Safety and ...

Electrical Engineering Technician

Rockford, IL · On-site

$35 - $44/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Electrical Lab Technician Locations: Rockford, IL 61108 Pay Rate: $35.00-$44.00/hour Shift: 1st ... Associate or Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or similar field desired. * Self-starter ...

Showing results 21-40

Lab Associate information

See DeKalb, IL salary details

$12

$21

$33

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in DeKalb, IL is $21.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $24.52 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 DeKalb, IL?

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

What cities near DeKalb, IL are hiring for Lab Associate jobs?

Cities near DeKalb, IL with the most Lab Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in DeKalb, IL 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 $45,665 per year, or $22 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Scientist - Full Time

Mercyhealth

Rockford, IL • On-site

$29.41 - $44.11/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Mercy Health rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 384 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

459th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

OVERVIEW
This job involves performing laboratory tests on patient samples, verifying results for accuracy, and using specialized equipment to help healthcare providers diagnose and treat patients. The role also includes maintaining laboratory instruments, following quality and safety standards, training new staff, solving technical issues, and supporting the daily operations of the laboratory.
SCHEDULE: 7 days on, 7 days off
SHIFT: Nights
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Utilize the Information System to receive patients, order and collect samples, result tests, answer questions from nurses and physicians, document quality control activities and produce reports required to perform job tasks.
  • Confirms accuracy of patient sample identification prior to performing analyses; evaluates specimen quality and identifies when unacceptable. Documents information concerning quality of specimen, impact of sub-optimal specimens on test values. Initiates recollection procedure as indicated.
  • Perform waived, moderate and high complexity lab tests as defined by CLIA in the lab specialties of hematology, urinalysis, chemistry and blood bank or microbiology by automated and manual methods according to defined policies and procedures.
  • Analyze test results prior to release of information to chart for validity and accuracy. Recognizes subtle yet significant problems which occur with testing methodologies. Troubleshoots suspect test results using technical knowledge and experience. Implements corrective action when inaccurate, inappropriate findings/results/reports are identified.
  • Performs high complexity tests such as bone marrow, sperm morphology, etc.
  • Assure that designated turnaround times for results are met and that critical results are appropriately reported and documented.
  • Perform quality control and proficiency testing procedures as defined by policy.
  • Interpret and troubleshoot quality control results to ensure accurate and precise test results.
  • Perform preventative maintenance, advanced troubleshooting and calibration of laboratory instrumentation.
  • Participate in method and instrument evaluation and implementation.
  • Investigates/resolves technical issues.
  • Participates on interdepartmental committees or teams.
  • Participates in teaching students and training new partners.
  • Completes and signs off on competency checklists for techs.
  • Develops updates and procedures as requested.
  • Serves as a resource to inexperienced partners.
  • Performs additional tasks such as scheduling, antibiograms, etc.
  • Maintain competency in current procedures and gain competency for new methods implemented.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology
  • Must be qualified to perform high complexity testing according to CLIA 493.1489 Standard; Testing personnel qualifications.
  • OR
  • Associates degree in Medical Technology AND MLT certification
  • Must be qualified to perform high complexity testing according to CLIA 493.1489 Standard; Testing personnel qualifications.

CERTIFICATION AND LICENSURE
  • MT/MLS Generalist Certification or Specialty Certification in Blood Bank, Chemistry, Hematology or Microbiology required within 12 months of hire.

OR
  • MLT Certification and 5 years of experience.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES
N/A
SPECIAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The Special Physical Demands are considered Essential Job Function of the position with or without accommodations.
While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is frequently required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The employee is required to talk, hear and smell. The employee is occasionally required to walk; sit and reach with hands and arms. The employee may have occasion to reach overhead to pick up objects or to adjust items. The employee may have occasion to bend under or crawl under bench to move or obtain objects. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, color vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus
LEVEL OF SUPERVISION
Some independent judgment is required, but alternatives are limited by standard practices or procedures.
SUPERVISES
This job has no supervisory responsibilities.
PAY RANGE:
$29.41 - $44.11
Mercyhealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Mercyhealth offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Disability Insurance
  • FSA/HSA Options
  • Generous, accruing paid time off
  • Paid Parental and caregiver leave
  • Career advancement and educational opportunities
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Certification Reimbursement
  • Well-being Programs
  • Employee Discounts
  • On-Demand Pay
  • Financial Education
  • Annual recognition/awards events
  • Partner appreciation days
  • Family entertainment/attractions discount
  • Community service/improvement opportunities

Click here for more details regarding Mercyhealth Careers Benefit Information.
At Mercyhealth, we don't simply hire people, we empower employee-partners who are passionate about making lives better. As an integrated health system, we deliver exceptional, coordinated across seven hospitals, 85 primary and specialty clinics, and a team of over 7,500 professionals serving northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.
Mercyhealth has been nationally recognized for our commitment to our people and culture, including:
  • #1 in the nation on AARP's Best Employers for Workers Over 50
  • One of Working Mother magazine's 100 Best Companies for Working Mothers
  • A Top 50 Company and Top 10 Nonprofit for Executive Women

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About Mercyhealth

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Mercyhealth, we don’t simply hire people – instead, we empower talented, dedicated health care professionals to provide the highest quality patient care possible with a passion for making lives better. As an integrated health care provider, we provide exceptional, coordinated health care. The organization consists of seven hospitals, 85+ clinics, and more than 7,500 employee-partners to serve patients in 15 counties throughout northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. We hope you’ll consider becoming the newest member of the Mercyhealth family and join our passion for making lives better!

Industry

Hospitals, fitness and sports centers and health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Janesville, WI, US