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Lab Operations Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Ecolab

Lab Technician

Joliet, IL · On-site

$45K - $68K/yr

Building on a century of innovation, our 48,000 associates help deliver comprehensive science-based ... Our solutions not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute to sustainability and ...

Ecolab

Lab Technician

Joliet, IL · On-site

$45K - $68K/yr

Building on a century of innovation, our 48,000 associates help deliver comprehensive science-based ... Our solutions not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute to sustainability and ...

Atkore International Group

Lab Technician

Harvey, IL · On-site

$46K - $64K/yr

All associates must embrace and foster an environment that supports our core values of ... Achieve operational excellence, provide superior support to production, and ensure customer ...

Atkore

Lab Technician

Harvey, IL · On-site

$46K - $64K/yr

All associates must embrace and foster an environment that supports our core values of ... Achieve operational excellence, provide superior support to production, and ensure customer ...

Actalent

Lab Processor

Westmont, IL · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Order laboratory and cleanroom supplies as needed to support ongoing operations and prevent ... Bachelor's degree in biology or chemistry with 1-2 years of laboratory experience, or an associate ...

Actalent

Lab Processor

Westmont, IL · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Order laboratory and cleanroom supplies as needed to support ongoing operations and prevent ... Bachelor's degree in biology or chemistry with 1-2 years of laboratory experience, or an associate ...

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All JobsLab Operations Associate JobsLab Operations Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Lab Operations Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$27

$55

How much do lab operations associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab operations associate in Chicago, IL is $27.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab operations associate?

Lab Operations Associates are professionals who support the daily functioning of scientific laboratories. Their responsibilities often include managing lab supplies, maintaining equipment, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and assisting with sample processing or data entry. They work closely with scientists and technicians to ensure experiments and research activities run smoothly. This role is essential for maintaining an organized and efficient laboratory environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab operations associate?

To thrive as a Lab Operations Associate, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, inventory management, and safety protocols, often supported by a bachelor's degree in a life science field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), inventory tracking software, and standard lab equipment is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure smooth laboratory operations, regulatory compliance, and reliable support for scientific research or testing.

What are some common challenges faced by lab operations associates, and how can they be managed effectively?

Lab Operations Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks simultaneously, maintaining strict compliance with safety protocols, and ensuring timely supply inventory. Successfully meeting these challenges requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and clear communication with both lab technicians and management. Proactively prioritizing tasks and regularly reviewing inventory and safety procedures can help maintain smooth lab operations and contribute to a collaborative and efficient work environment.

What is the difference between Lab Operations Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab Operations AssociateLaboratory Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications may enhance prospectsUsually requires an associate degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentSupports lab workflows, manages supplies, and maintains equipmentPerforms testing, sample analysis, and data recording
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in healthcare, biotech, and research labs for operational supportFound in clinical, pharmaceutical, and research labs for technical testing

The Lab Operations Associate primarily handles logistical and support tasks within the lab environment, ensuring smooth operations. In contrast, the Laboratory Technician focuses on performing technical tests and analyzing samples. Both roles are essential in lab settings but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Operations jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Lab Operations jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Lab Operations Associate jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Lab Operations Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Operations Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Operations Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Lab Operations Associate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Lab Operations Associate job openings:

Lab Operations Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Operations Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,278 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Lab Technician

Joliet, IL • On-site

Ecolab
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Ecolabexternal

$45K - $68K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Ecolab rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 212 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 104 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Want to build a brighter, bolder future and cultivate your career? Join Ecolab's team and help create a world in which we all thrive.
Ecolab is seeking a Lab Technician to join our team in Joliet, IL. As a Lab Technician, you'll perform biological and chemical analyses, support formulation development, and contribute to continuous improvement by evaluating processes and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
How You'll Make an Impact:
  • Assist in development of formulations for a variety of applications
  • Responsible for all steps of routine experimentation including sample prep, equipment orientation, instrument control, data processing, and analysis
  • Conduct product performance and field testing
  • Approve, hold, and/or reject products based on laboratory analysis versus specifications
  • Ensure compliance to current regulatory requirements, following GMP guidelines for data reporting, and preparation of validation protocols, raw data generation, and final reports
  • Conduct reexamination of borderline results, research technical literature, and communicate opportunities for process improvements
  • Multi-task between many projects to ensure the various completion deadlines are met
  • Recommend testing parameters, complete experiments and project work as assigned
  • Provide analytical and technical support for quality related product investigations
  • Complete data reviews for out-of-specification test results issuing SPC charts of historical results
  • Optimize and recommend lab improvements to support 5S initiatives
  • Other duties as assigned

Position Details:
  • Plant Location: Joliet, IL
  • Work Week & Shift: Nights, 12-hour Shifts, 6pm-6am. Rotating as follows: Monday-Tuesday, Friday-Saturday-Sunday, Wednesday-Thursday.

What's Unique About This Role:
  • The support of an organization that believes it is vital to include and engage diverse people, perspectives and ideas to achieve our best
  • Be part of a company that values a culture of safety that includes top-notch safety training and personal protective equipment

Minimum Qualifications:
  • 2-year technical degree
  • Experience working in a lab environment
  • Experience working with statistical software
  • Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Immigration sponsorship is not offered for this role

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Strong background in scientific skills and lab analysis
  • Experience with laboratory safety procedures/regulations
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

What's in it For You:
  • Starting on Day 1: Access to our comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, matching 401K, company-paid pension, stock purchase plan, paid parental leave, select discounted childcare resources, and more!
  • The opportunity to take on some of the world's most meaningful challenges, helping customers achieve clean water, safe food, and healthy environments
  • The ability to make an impact and shape your career with a company that is passionate about growth
  • The support of an organization that believes it is vital to include and engage diverse people, perspectives, and ideas to achieve our best

About Ecolab:
At Ecolab, we prioritize our talent-first philosophy by creating the most capable and diverse team to excel at our nearly three million customer sites. Building on a century of innovation, our 48,000 associates help deliver comprehensive science-based solutions, data-driven insights and world-class service to advance food safety, maintain clean and safe environments, and optimize water and energy use, and improve operational efficiencies and sustainability for customers in the food, healthcare, life sciences, hospitality and industrial markets in more than 170 countries around the world. Our solutions not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute to sustainability and public health, making a positive impact on the world. We are committed to eliminating unnecessary complexities and embracing a beginner's mindset, continuously seeking new perspectives and innovative solutions to stay ahead in a rapidly changing world.
Annual or Hourly Compensation Range
The pay range for this position is $45,700.00 - $68,600.00. Many factors are taken into consideration when determining compensation, such as experience, education, training, geography, etc. We comply with all minimum wage and overtime laws.
Benefits
Ecolab strives to provide comprehensive and market-competitive benefits to meet the needs of our associates and their families. Click here to see our benefits.
If you are viewing this posting on a site other than our Ecolab Career website, view our benefits at jobs.ecolab.com/working-here.
Potential Customer Requirements Notice
To meet customer requirements and comply with local or state regulations, applicants for certain customer-facing roles may need to:
- Undergo additional background screens and/or drug/alcohol testing for customer credentialing.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Ecolab will provide reasonable accommodation (such as a qualified sign language interpreter or other personal assistance) with our application process upon request as required to comply with applicable laws. If you have a disability and require accommodation assistance in this application process, please visit the Recruiting Support link in the footer of each page of our career website.

What Ecolab employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Ecolab

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Ecolab is a global sustainability leader offering water, hygiene and infection prevention solutions and services that protect people and the resources vital to life.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Paul, MN, US

Year founded

1923

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