1

Lab Associate Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

The R&D LAB TECHNICIAN i s responsible for assisting with day-to-day lab maintenance, formulation ... Associates in Science preferred. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES * Ability to gather and analyze ...

The R&D LAB TECHNICIAN i s responsible for assisting with day-to-day lab maintenance, formulation ... Associates in Science preferred. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES * Ability to gather and analyze ...

Join QualDerm Partners as a Lab Administrative Assistant! With over 150 locations in 17 states ... Associate's Degree preferred * 2+ years of administrative experience in a healthcare or laboratory ...

Join QualDerm Partners as a Lab Administrative Assistant! With over 150 locations in 17 states ... Associate's Degree preferred * 2+ years of administrative experience in a healthcare or laboratory ...

Position: Medical Lab Scientist -Generalist Location: Edward Hospital 801 S. Washington St ... Associate's Degree or higher in Medical Technology or Clinical Laboratory Science * Registration ...

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Winfield, IL · On-site

$2.2K - $2.9K/wk

Graduate of an accredited Radiology Technologist program or Associate Degree in Applied Sciences ... Travel Cath Lab / EP Technologist - Cardiac Cath Lab About American Traveler With over 25 years of ...

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Winfield, IL · On-site

$2.2K - $2.9K/wk

Specialty: Cath Lab Technologist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: ASAP ... Graduate of an accredited Radiology Technologist program or Associate Degree in Applied Sciences;

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lab Associate information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Elgin, IL is $22.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $24.71 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 Elgin, IL? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Medical Lab Scientist - Core Lab

Medical Lab Scientist - Core Lab

Endeavor Health

Naperville, IL

$30.46 - $45.69/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Endeavor Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 392 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

376th of 882 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Hourly Pay Range:

$30.46 - $45.69 - The hourly pay rate offered is determined by a candidate's expertise and years of experience, among other factors.

Position Highlights:

  • Position: Medical Lab Scientist -Generalist
  • Location: Edward Hospital 801 S. Washington St. Naperville, IL.
  • FTE:   1.0 FTE (40 hrs./week)
  • Hours:      NIGHT SHIFT 10pm- 6:30 am  Monday through Friday;  Includes weekend and holiday rotations.

Brief Overview: Under general supervision and according to established policies and procedures, performs various clinical laboratory tests in one or more sections of the Laboratory to obtain data for use in diagnosis and treatment of disease. 

What will you do:

  • Performs patient tests, manually and with automated clinical laboratory equipment, reagents and/or test methodologies.
  • Reviews patient test results for accuracy and notifies appropriate clinical personnel or all critical results. Documents this notification per established protocols.
  • Performs quality control per established departmental protocols. Records QC appropriately and takes corrective action when QC is not within established guidelines. Documents corrective action taken.
  • Performs instrument checks, maintenance and troubleshooting per department protocols.
  • Maintains competencies in accordance with policy and procedures of the hospital and laboratory department.
  • Recognizes abnormal or unusual test results and makes appropriate decisions before releasing results. Notifies supervisor and pathologist if necessary.
  • Actively promotes patient satisfaction and customer service values with all staff members. Instructs and encourages coworkers to treat patients and customers (nurses, physicians, visitors, vendors etc.) courteously.
  • Participates in continuing education programs, in-services, lab meetings and various committees.
  • Maintains a safe work environment by using required PPE and protective devices. Handles biohazardous materials and chemicals according to established protocols.
  • Maintains inventory and supplies within respective departments.
  • Performs computer functions efficiently, manages workload and established turnaround times.  
  • Assists in orientation and training of new employees and students.
  • May assist in competency assessment of moderate and high complexity testing.
  • Maintains a broad knowledge of all laboratory departments. May cross-train into other areas of the lab as needed.
  • Reads emails and responds in a timely manner.
  • Other projects or duties as assigned.
     

What will you need:

  • Associate’s Degree or higher-must be in either Medical Technology or  Clinical Laboratory Science
  • Registration with the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP), National Credentialing Agency (NCA) or equivalent, preferred
     

Benefits:  (For full time or part time positions):

  • Premium pay such as shift, on call, holiday and more based on an employee’s job (For eligible positions)
  • Incentive pay for select positions
  • Opportunity for annual increases based on performance
  • Career Pathways to Promote Professional Growth and Development
  • Various Medical, Dental, and Vision options
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Free Parking at designated locations
  • Wellness Program Savings Plan
  • Health Savings Account Options
  • Retirement Options with Company Match
  • Paid Time Off
  • Community Involvement Opportunities
     

Endeavor Health is a fully integrated healthcare delivery system committed to providing access to quality, vibrant, community-connected care, serving an area of more than 4.2 million residents across six northeast Illinois counties. Our more than 25,000 team members and more than 6,000 physicians aim to deliver transformative patient experiences and expert care close to home across more than 300 ambulatory locations and eight acute care hospitals – Edward (Naperville), Elmhurst, Evanston, Glenbrook (Glenview), Highland Park, Northwest Community (Arlington Heights) Skokie and Swedish (Chicago) – all recognized as Magnet hospitals for nursing excellence. For more information, visit www.endeavorhealth.org.  

 When you work for Endeavor Health, you will be part of an organization that encourages its employees to achieve career goals and maximize their professional potential.

 Please explore our website (www.endeavorhealth.org) to better understand how Endeavor Health delivers on its mission to “help everyone in our communities be their best”. 

 Endeavor Health is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. Please refer to the main career page for more information.

 At Endeavor Health, we are united by a shared commitment to working together to create a culture of connection and belonging—each of us bringing different skills and experiences as we deliver safe, seamless, and personal care. Every person, every time. We are committed to fostering an environment where all team members can be their best, learn, and pursue excellence together.

EOE: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/ Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets, VEVRRA Federal Contractor.


What Endeavor Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom