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Lab Associate Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

Pretium Packaging

Corporate Quality Lab Technician

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Position Overview The Corporate Quality Lab Technician performs analytical testing, physical ... Associate degree in Quality Assurance, Chemistry, Engineering Technology, Plastics Technology ...

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Lab Associate information

See DeKalb, IL salary details

$12

$21

$33

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 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 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 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 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 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 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:

Lab Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in DeKalb, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,665 per year, or $22 per hour.

Corporate Quality Lab Technician

Pretium Packaging

Aurora, IL • On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Pretium Packaging rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Make Quality Measurable at Pretium
At Pretium Packaging, quality is more than a requirement; it is a commitment to our customers, consumers, and manufacturing partners. We are seeking a detail-oriented and technically skilled Corporate Quality Lab Technician to support laboratory testing, quality assurance initiatives, regulatory compliance activities, and continuous improvement efforts across our manufacturing network.
This role serves as a key technical resource within the Corporate Quality team by generating reliable test data, validating product performance, supporting investigations, and maintaining documentation that helps ensure compliance with customer specifications, regulatory requirements, and quality standards.
Position Overview
The Corporate Quality Lab Technician performs analytical testing, physical performance evaluations, equipment verification, and quality data collection for packaging products, components, raw materials, and quality improvement projects. This position supports the organization's commitment to product quality, food safety, customer satisfaction, and regulatory compliance through accurate laboratory practices and disciplined documentation.
The role provides objective test results that support product qualifications, manufacturing investigations, customer complaint resolution, supplier evaluations, validation activities, and continuous improvement initiatives throughout the company.
Key Responsibilities
Laboratory Testing & Product Evaluation
  • Perform physical, dimensional, and functional testing of plastic packaging products, closures, components, and raw materials.
  • Conduct laboratory evaluations including leak testing, torque testing, drop testing, top-load/compression testing, weight verification, dimensional measurements, and visual defect analysis.
  • Verify product conformity against customer specifications, drawings, approved standards, and internal quality requirements.
  • Prepare samples and maintain testing schedules for qualification studies, validations, customer requests, and troubleshooting activities.
  • Support material characterization and comparative testing associated with product development and continuous improvement projects.

Quality Systems & Investigation Support
  • Assist corporate and plant quality teams with root-cause investigations related to customer complaints, nonconformances, and process deviations.
  • Compile and analyze laboratory data to identify trends, performance concerns, and opportunities for improvement.
  • Support corrective and preventive action activities by providing technical data and test evidence.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing plants to validate containment actions and verify effectiveness of corrective measures.

Documentation & Record Management
  • Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks, electronic records, test reports, calibration records, and supporting documentation.
  • Generate detailed laboratory reports summarizing methods, results, observations, and conclusions.
  • Ensure test records are maintained in accordance with quality system requirements and document-control procedures.
  • Support preparation and retention of records required for customer audits, certification audits, and regulatory inquiries.

Compliance & Auditing Support
  • Assist with ISO, BRCGS, GMP, HACCP, and customer compliance initiatives by providing laboratory data and documentation.
  • Support internal audits and quality system assessments as needed.
  • Verify testing methods and laboratory practices remain aligned with approved procedures and industry standards.
  • Participate in validation and qualification activities for laboratory equipment and quality inspection systems.

Equipment & Laboratory Management
  • Perform routine calibration, maintenance, verification, and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment.
  • Coordinate external calibration services when required.
  • Maintain laboratory organization, cleanliness, safety compliance, and inventory of testing supplies.
  • Recommend improvements to testing methods, laboratory processes, and data collection systems.

Cross-Functional Support
  • Partner with Corporate Quality, Operations, Engineering, Regulatory Affairs, Sales, and Product Development teams on quality-related projects.
  • Support customer requests for performance testing and technical documentation.
  • Travel periodically to manufacturing facilities to support investigations, audits, validations, and training activities.

Qualifications
Required Education
  • Associate degree in Quality Assurance, Chemistry, Engineering Technology, Plastics Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Technology, or related scientific discipline.
  • Equivalent combination of education and relevant laboratory experience may be considered.

Preferred Education
  • Bachelor's degree in a scientific, engineering, quality, or technical field.

Preferred Certifications
  • ASQ Certified Quality Technician (CQT)
  • ASQ Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA)
  • ASQ Certified Quality Auditor (CQA)
  • Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt or Green Belt

Technical Skills
  • Experience operating laboratory and inspection equipment.
  • Proficiency with precision measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, gauges, and optical measurement devices.
  • Understanding of statistical methods and basic data analysis.
  • Knowledge of quality management systems and documentation practices.
  • Experience with calibration systems and test method validation.
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and data-management software.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, inspection criteria, and quality procedures.
  • Working knowledge of plastic packaging manufacturing processes is preferred.

Soft Skills & Competencies
  • Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Strong organizational and documentation skills.
  • Effective written and verbal communication.
  • Analytical problem-solving capabilities.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Team-oriented mindset with strong interpersonal skills.
  • Initiative and willingness to learn new testing methods and technologies.
  • Ability to present technical findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Work Environment
  • Primarily based in a corporate office and laboratory environment.
  • Frequent interaction with manufacturing plants, quality teams, engineering groups, and operations personnel.
  • Occasional travel to Pretium manufacturing facilities for audits, investigations, product validations, and technical support.
  • Requires standing, lifting samples, operating test equipment, and performing laboratory evaluations.
  • Exposure to manufacturing environments may include production equipment, warehouse operations, and quality inspection areas.

Compliance & Quality Standards
The Corporate Quality Lab Technician is expected to maintain and promote compliance with applicable quality, regulatory, and customer requirements, including:
  • ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems
  • BRCGS Packaging Materials Standard
  • Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
  • HACCP principles
  • Customer-specific packaging and quality requirements
  • Internal quality procedures, work instructions, and testing standards
  • Environmental, Health & Safety requirements
  • Applicable FDA and food-contact packaging regulations where relevant

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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