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Lab Automation Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

FPGA Engineer

Chicago, IL

$133K - $172K/yr

This facility also houses advanced R and D capabilities focused on grid modernization, automation ... lab testing and hardware validation processes. Benefits - 401K with up to 6% matching and an ...

... Factory Automation. As the Drive & Control Company, we develop, produce, and distribute our ... Support lab testing activities for hydraulic systems and components * Translate high-level test ...

Software Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to ... Work in a telecommunications development lab environment, use automation tools and lab test ...

Software Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to ... Work in a telecommunications development lab environment, use automation tools and lab test ...

Honeywell helps organizations solve the world's most complex challenges in automation, the future ... Other job duties are to conduct all necessary materials and catalysis synthesis work, lab-scale ...

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Showing results 1-20

Lab Automation Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$17

$49

$74

How much do lab automation engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab automation engineer in Chicago, IL is $49.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.88 and $61.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Lab Automation Engineer do?

A Lab Automation Engineer designs, develops, and maintains automated systems used in laboratory environments to improve efficiency, accuracy, and reproducibility of experiments. They work with robotics, software, and laboratory instruments to streamline workflows for research, diagnostics, or manufacturing processes. Their responsibilities often include programming automation scripts, integrating hardware and software, troubleshooting system issues, and collaborating with scientists to optimize lab operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Lab Automation Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering or life sciences, experience with laboratory workflows, and proficiency in programming and automation. Familiarity with tools such as liquid handling robots, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), scripting languages (like Python or VBA), and certifications like Six Sigma or CLIA can be highly advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills set top performers apart. These skills are crucial for designing efficient automated systems, maintaining equipment, and ensuring seamless lab operations in complex, collaborative environments.

What are some common challenges Lab Automation Engineers face in their daily work?

Lab Automation Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting integration issues between new automation equipment and existing lab systems, as well as optimizing protocols for maximum efficiency. Adjusting to rapidly evolving technology and managing the customization of automated solutions for diverse experiments are also common aspects of the role. Collaboration with scientists, IT specialists, and quality control teams is essential to ensure that automation meets both technical and regulatory requirements. Successfully navigating these challenges requires adaptability, communication, and a solution-oriented mindset.

What are popular job titles related to Lab Automation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Lab Automation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Lab Automation Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 13% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,669 per year, or $49.4 per hour.
Scientist I, Analytical Chemistry

Scientist I, Analytical Chemistry

AbbVie

North Chicago, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


AbbVie rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 71 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Company Description

About AbbVie

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas including immunology, oncology and neuroscience - and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Job Description

The Scientist I, Analytical Chemistry will investigate, identify, develop, and optimize new methods and techniques to generate reliable and reproducible data in a timely manner. Read and adapt scientific literature to accomplish assignments and demonstrate broad and versatile technical expertise within discipline.

Responsibilities

  • Utilize understanding of a range of analytical techniques to conduct research and development studies related to small-molecule drug products, peptides, active pharmaceutical ingredients, intermediates, starting materials, impurities and impurity profiling.
  • Apply analytical separation and detection modes for complex impurity profiling of pharmaceutical products to further the understanding of emerging cGMP manufacturing processes.
  • Independently design and conduct critical experiments that further project goals.
  • Interpret results and draw conclusions from own multistage experiments, note significant deviations, then suggest, design, and pursue relevant experiments.
  • Implement and may innovate new experimental protocols/techniques.
  • Perform routine and complex tasks competently and independently and generate reliable and consistent results. Impact projects mostly through lab and/or pilot plant based activities.
  • Understand the goal and maintain a high proficiency in his/her projects as well as the overall program.
  • Understand relevant scientific literature and apply theoretical framework to solving problems within scientific discipline in a timely manner.
  • Understand and adhere to corporate standards regarding code of conduct, safety, appropriate handling of materials, controlled drug and radioactive compounds, GxP compliance, and animal care where applicable.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent education with minimum 5 years of experience, or Master’s Degree or equivalent education with minimum 2 years of experience.
  • Theoretical and practical knowledge of ICP/MS, ICP and MS to carry out the job functions.
  • Understanding of cGMP and current regulatory requirements.
  • Strong technical background in analytical chemistry, excellent analytical problem-solving skills. Capable of independently developing and troubleshoot analytical methods.
  • Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute and interpret critical experiments to answer scientific questions.
  • Demonstrated ability to learn, understand and master new experimental techniques.
  • Hands on experience with HPLC analysis and method development along with expertise and fundamental understanding of spectroscopic techniques.
  • Experience in the use of computerized data handling systems, data analysis and statistical approaches.
  • Ability to multitask and work within timelines.
  • Self-motivated, hard-working, detail-oriented individual able to work in a fast-paced team environment.
  • High-quality written and oral communication skills and ability to interact effectively with interdisciplinary scientists and engineers.

Preferred:

  • A degree in Analytical/Physical Chemistry or Biochemistry.
  • Practical knowledge of organic structure, functional groups, chemistry, and modern spectroscopic techniques as applied to small-molecule analytical analysis.
  • Experience on lab automation is a plus.
  • Experience working with contract labs or external suppliers is a plus.
  • Experience in performing lab investigations is a plus.

Key Leadership Competencies:

  • Build strong relationships with peers and cross functionally with partners outside of team to enable higher performance.
  • Learn fast, grasp the "essence" and can change courses quickly where indicated.
  • Raises the bar and is never satisfied with the status quo.
  • Creates a learning environment, open to suggestions and experimentation for improvement.

Additional Information

Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law: ​

  • The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this roleat  the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on manyfactors  including  geographic location, and we may ultimately  pay more or less than the posted range. This range may be  modified in the future. ​

  • We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.​

  • This job is eligible to  participate in our short-term incentive programs. ​

Note: No amount of pay is  considered to be wages or compensation until such amount isearned,  vested,  and determinable. The amount and availability of  any bonus, commission, incentive, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that areallocable to a   particular employee  remains in the Company's sole and absolute discretion unless and until paid and may be  modified at the Company’s sole and absolutediscretion,  consistent with applicable law. ​

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community.  Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. 

US & Puerto Rico only - to learn more, visit https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/equal-employment-opportunity-employer.html

US & Puerto Rico applicants seeking a reasonable accommodation, click here to learn more:

https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/reasonable-accommodations.html


What AbbVie employees say

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About AbbVie

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas: immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, virology, women's health, and gastroenterology, in addition to products and services across its Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

North Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

2013