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Lab Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Scotsman Ice

ENGINEERING LAB TECH

Vernon Hills, IL

... to Product Engineer/Lab Manager Supervises n/a Mission Support engineering initiatives by preparing and executing tests utilizing data-acquisition systems to provide engineers with reliable ...

Intellectt INC

Lab/ Production Technician

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Job Title: Tech 1, Product Development Engineering Location: Vernon Hills Illinois 60061 Duration :12 Months Onsite 100% Must Have Computer skills · Lab experience · Microsoft Applications Nice to ...

Actalent

Lab Technician

Libertyville, IL

$22 - $25/hr

Lab Technician - 1st Shift (Entry-Level Friendly) Start Your Career in a Cutting-Edge Medical ... About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent ...

VIVA USA INC

Mechanical Design Engineer

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Works with senior engineering personnel, mechanical engineers, lab engineers, technical writer, approvals manager, technicians, and others within the organization to coordinate development of designs.

Panduit

IEI Lab Technician Sr

Lockport, IL · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

This role takes ownership of projects, executes UL testing based on engineering requests, and serves as a go-to technical expert for resolving challenging issues. In addition to the Lockport Lab ...

Panduit

IEI Lab Technician Sr

Lockport, IL

$30 - $35/hr

This role takes ownership of projects, executes UL testing based on engineering requests, and serves as a go-to technical expert for resolving challenging issues. In addition to the Lockport Lab ...

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 ...

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All JobsLab Engineer JobsLab Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Lab Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$17

$49

$74

How much do lab engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab 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 are Lab Engineers and what do they do?

Lab Engineers are professionals responsible for designing, maintaining, and operating laboratory equipment and systems. They work in various fields such as electronics, chemistry, or biomedical engineering, ensuring experiments and tests are conducted accurately and safely. Lab Engineers also troubleshoot technical issues, calibrate equipment, and often assist researchers or students with their projects. Their work is critical for supporting research and development, quality control, and product testing.

What Is a Lab Engineer?

A lab engineer is responsible for the IT infrastructure of a laboratory. As a lab engineer, your job duties include conducting technical evaluations of hardware equipment and software, deploying code, troubleshooting and fixing issues, maintaining the server and network systems, and coordinating with scientists, lab technicians, system engineers, and operations staff. You need a bachelor’s degree in a technical field and experience with networking principles, middleware platform, and database connectivity. You can find lab engineer jobs in the science and medical research industry.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $500,000 or more annually. High compensation often involves leadership roles, stock options, or working in high-demand industries with complex technical requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Engineers and how can they be addressed?

Lab Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions, managing multiple experiments simultaneously, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Staying organized and maintaining detailed documentation can help manage workload and prevent errors. Regular communication with team members and ongoing training on new technologies are also essential for staying current and effective in the role.

What lab jobs pay well?

Lab engineers and related laboratory roles that require specialized skills, such as biomedical, chemical, or industrial lab engineers, tend to pay higher salaries, especially with advanced certifications or experience. Positions in industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and manufacturing often offer higher compensation due to technical demands and safety requirements.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and working in high-demand industries or executive-level roles.

What is the difference between Lab Engineer vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab EngineerLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, science, or related fieldDiploma or associate degree in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and oversee laboratory experiments and equipmentPerform routine tests, prepare samples, and maintain lab equipment
Employer & Industry UsageResearch labs, manufacturing, quality controlMedical labs, research facilities, industrial testing

Lab Engineers focus on designing and managing laboratory processes and equipment, often requiring engineering degrees. Laboratory Technicians perform routine testing and sample preparation, typically with technical diplomas. Both roles are essential in lab settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What does a lab engineer do?

A lab engineer designs, develops, and maintains laboratory equipment and systems to support scientific research and testing. They often troubleshoot technical issues, ensure safety protocols, and may use tools like CAD software or testing instruments. Strong technical skills and knowledge of laboratory procedures are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering or applied sciences, analytical problem-solving abilities, and typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with lab instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and standard safety protocols is essential, and certifications such as OSHA or Six Sigma can be beneficial. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and organizational skills set standout candidates apart. These competencies ensure accurate experimentation, reliable results, and a safe, efficient laboratory environment.
More about Lab Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Lab Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Lab Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Lab Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab 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.
Lab Engineering Technician II

Lab Engineering Technician II

TERRACON

Glendale Heights, IL

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Terracon rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 57 rated business consultants

Job description

Role: Lab Engineering Technician II

Location: Glendale Heights, IL

Onsite

Full-Time

 
Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g. soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel). Communicate with project manager, engineering technicians, client representative, contractor's representative and others as applicable regarding the construction site, project requirements, and testing, observation, and inspection requirements and results. Transport material samples with associated identifying documentation to the laboratory for further testing and analysis. Tabulate, prepare, and submit data and observation in the form of written and digital reports as work is performed for daily transmittal to the Terracon Project Manager. Maintain and clean equipment, vehicles and work areas. May assist with scheduling and dispatch of Technicians to project sites. Adhere to strict safety standards.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum 1-2 years of relevant experience or the equivalent in training and related experience.
  • Experience with laptop computer use and Microsoft Word and Excel
  • A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.

Preferred Qualifications: Certifications in one or more of the following areas:

  • NICET Level II certification in Construction Materials Testing in one or more of the following categories: Asphalt, Concrete, Soils.
  • NICET Level II certification in Geotechnical in one or more of the following categories: Construction, Laboratory, Exploration, Generalist
  • ICC certification in one or more of the following categories: Reinforced Concrete, Spray-applied Fireproofing, Structural Masonry, Prestressed/Post-Tensioned Concrete, Structural Steel - Bolting, Structural Steel - Welding.
  • American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Associate Welding Inspector (CAWI)
  • American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II certification in more than one of the following areas: Visual Testing (VT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Dye Penetrant Testing (PT), Radiographic Testing (RT), Ultrasonic Testing (UT).
  • Other national, regional, state, and local Materials related certifications requiring experience and written examination will also be considered if deemed appropriate by the Terracon Department Manager.

Required Qualifications:

  • ACI certification in one or more of the following areas:
  • Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I
  • Concrete Strength Testing Technician
  • Certified in radiation safety and Nuclear Density Gauge operation.
  • Successful completion of related internal safety certifications.
  • Performs testing, observation, and inspection as directed in accordance with training and the specified procedures.
  • Provides clear documentation of findings and results.
  • Performs basic analysis of data to verify accuracy before communication and submittal to the Project Manager.
  • Communicates information to Project Manager and other personnel as directed by the PM.
  • Assists higher level technicians on complex tasks.
  • Maintains assigned equipment and related calibration.
  • Follows safety rules and practices and other safety requirements for all projects. Performs pre-task planning prior to executing work. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

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