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Lab Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Lab Technician

Tinley Park, IL

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

This role focuses on sample handling, microbiological testing, and accurate data entry into a LIMS database while helping to establish and grow a new lab facility from the ground up. The position ...

IMC

Lab Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

You'll help bring new hardware from manufacturing into production by validating circuit boards, supporting hardware bring-up, coordinating inventory and logistics, and maintaining the lab ...

IMC

Lab Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

You'll help bring new hardware from manufacturing into production by validating circuit boards, supporting hardware bring-up, coordinating inventory and logistics, and maintaining the lab ...

Ecolab

Senior Lab Technician

Naperville, IL · On-site

$28/hr

Join Ecolab's team and help create a world in which we all thrive. Ecolab is seeking a Senior Lab Technician to join our team in Naperville, IL. As a Senior Lab Technician, you'll support a wide ...

Ecolab

Senior Lab Technician

Naperville, IL · On-site

$28/hr

Join Ecolab's team and help create a world in which we all thrive. Ecolab is seeking a Senior Lab Technician to join our team in Naperville, IL. As a Senior Lab Technician, you'll support a wide ...

Panduit

IEI Lab Technician Sr

Lockport, IL

$30 - $35/hr

If you're ready to elevate your career and help us deliver exceptional experiences to our customers, apply today and make your mark with Panduit! The Industrial Electrical Infrastructure (IEI) Lab ...

Panduit

IEI Lab Technician Sr

Lockport, IL · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

If you're ready to elevate your career and help us deliver exceptional experiences to our customers, apply today and make your mark with Panduit! The Industrial Electrical Infrastructure (IEI) Lab ...

Carbery Group

Lab Technician (Contract)

Wauconda, IL

$22/hr

Your Role in Synergy's Success LAB TECHNICIAN Synergy Flavors, Inc. is a leading international ... experience help shape the future of our industry. Join us and be part of a team that values ...

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All JobsLab Helper JobsLab Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL

Lab Helper information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$18

$28

How much do lab helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab helper in Chicago, IL is $18.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $18.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of a lab helper?

A lab helper assists scientists and technicians by preparing materials, setting up equipment, and maintaining a clean and organized laboratory environment. They may also record data, handle supplies, and ensure safety protocols are followed, often working under supervision in research or clinical labs.

What is the difference between Lab Helper vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab HelperLab Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalentAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratory support, assisting with basic tasksPerforming tests, analyzing samples, operating lab equipment
Employer & Industry UsageResearch labs, educational institutions, healthcare facilitiesMedical labs, research institutions, industrial labs
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles and support tasksCompared for technical responsibilities and qualifications

The main difference between a Lab Helper and a Lab Technician lies in their qualifications and responsibilities. Lab Helpers typically assist with basic tasks and require minimal formal education, while Lab Technicians perform more complex testing and usually hold relevant certifications or degrees. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings, but Lab Technicians have a higher level of technical responsibility.

What does a lab helper do?

A lab helper assists with preparing experiments, organizing supplies, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often follow safety protocols, record data, and support scientists or technicians in daily lab operations.

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

To thrive as a Lab Helper, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, with basic laboratory knowledge and attention to detail. Familiarity with lab equipment, safety protocols, and inventory management systems is typically required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the laboratory runs efficiently, maintains safety standards, and supports scientific staff effectively.

What are lab helpers?

Lab helpers are support staff who assist scientists, researchers, or lab technicians in maintaining the daily operations of a laboratory. Their duties typically include preparing materials, cleaning equipment, organizing supplies, and sometimes helping with experiments under supervision. Lab helpers play a crucial role in ensuring the lab runs smoothly and safely by keeping the workspace organized and adhering to safety protocols. While they generally do not design experiments, their work is essential for efficient and accurate scientific research.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab helper, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, and some positions may prefer coursework in science or related fields. Basic skills in laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols are important; certifications are generally not mandatory but can be advantageous.

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 minimum wage, while more experienced assistants or those working in specialized labs can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on whether the role is part-time or full-time and the industry sector.

What does a typical day look like for a Lab Helper and how do they support the overall workflow of the laboratory?

A typical day for a Lab Helper involves preparing and organizing lab equipment, cleaning glassware, restocking supplies, and assisting with basic experimental setups. Lab Helpers play a crucial role in maintaining a clean, efficient lab environment, allowing scientists and technicians to focus on more complex tasks. They frequently collaborate with laboratory staff to ensure that all materials are available and that safety protocols are followed. This support helps the team meet deadlines and maintain high standards of accuracy and safety in their work.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Lab Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Helper job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,946 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Summer Research Assistant - Energy & Environment Lab (2026)

UChicago Energy & Environment Lab

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Summer Research Assistant, Energy & Environment Lab 

Location:Chicago, IL 

Who We Are 

The University of Chicago Energy & Environment Lab (E&E Lab) partners with agencies at the local, state and federal level to identify, rigorously evaluate, and help scale programs and policies that reduce pollution and improve environmental outcomes, while ensuring access to reliable and affordable energy. The E&E Lab uses natural experiments, randomized controlled trials, behavioral economics, and machine learning to help policymakers identify and generate evidence around innovative approaches to their most pressing environmental and energy-related challenges. 

The E&E Lab is part of the University of Chicago's new Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth. The Lab's mission is to partner with government agencies to identify and rigorously evaluate policies with the greatest potential to improve human lives at scale; the Lab's evidence-based approach gives policymakers and practitioners the knowledge they need to effectively achieve the greatest social good per dollar spent. 

Job Summary 

The E&E Lab is seeking Summer Research Assistants (RAs) with strong research, methodological, and programming skills to support large-scale environmental policy research projects. The RAs will work on a portfolio of economics projects, designed to evaluate the impact of promising energy and environmental interventions. Typical research projects involve the analysis of environmental and energy data, utilizing quasi-experimental and experimental methods to provide government partners with guidance on key policy questions. 

Responsibilities: 

  • Coding, review, and cleaning of data. 
  • Data analytics, statistical analysis, and building econometric and/or machine learning models. 
  • Project development and coordination. 
  • Literature reviews. 
  • Presentation of results of analysis (e.g., graphs and tables). 
  • Assisting in writing, formatting, and editing reports and works for publication and for dissemination to partners. 

Job Requirements 

Competencies: 

  • Interest in and aptitude for developing advanced programming and analytic skills. 
  • Experience with at least one statistical analysis language required; R, or Python strongly preferred. 
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to synthesize multiple sources. 
  • Strong initiative and a resourceful approach to problem-solving and learning. 
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team. 
  • High attention to detail and organizational skills. 
  • Knowledge of environment and/or energy policy issues preferred. 

Education: 

  • Significant progress towards an undergraduate or graduate degree in economics, computer science or related discipline. 
  • Coursework in economics, applied math, computer science, statistics. 
  • Research experience in an academic setting preferred. 

Documents Required: 

  • Resume 
  • Cover Letter 
  • Academic transcript(s) 

The internship duration is ten weeks, with a flexible start date. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, with decisions made on a rolling basis. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. 

The E&E Lab main office is in Chicago; some research staff are based in the offices of our federal and state government partners. 

To apply, please complete the form and upload your resume, cover letter, and transcript below. Questions and inquiries about the summer position should be directed to eelabhiring@uchicago.edu. 

All applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. 

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination. 

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form. 

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637. 

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