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

Danaher

Facilities and EHS Manager

Deer Park, IL · On-site

... lab support activities, business continuity planning while delivering operational efficiency, cost control, and a positive associate and customer experience that enables and contributes to our onsite ...

Glanbia

R&D Lab Support Technician

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$23/hr

This position is responsible for end-to-end laboratory operational support, including raw material ... Preferred Associate's Degree or Technical Certification Laboratory Technology, Food Science ...

Glanbia

R&D Lab Support Technician

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$23/hr

This position is responsible for end-to-end laboratory operational support, including raw material ... Preferred Associate's Degree or Technical Certification Laboratory Technology, Food Science ...

Rush University

Medical Lab Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.63 - $24.91/hr

This position is responsible for supporting laboratory operations by accepting, preparing, and ... • An Associate Degree from an accredited intuition any of the following areas: Chemistry ...

Rush University

Medical Lab Assistant

Oak Park, IL · On-site

$17.63 - $24.91/hr

This position is responsible for supporting laboratory operations by accepting, preparing, and ... • An Associate Degree from an accredited intuition any of the following areas: Chemistry ...

Lab 1860

Front of House Manager

Orland Park, IL · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

About Lab 1860 Lab 1860 is a Levantine café and kitchen concept opening in Orland Park, Illinois ... This is an all-day, counter/fast-casual and dine-in operation. You will be expected to build ...

Lab 1860

Front of House Manager

Orland Park, IL

$55K - $70K/yr

About Lab 1860 Lab 1860 is a Levantine café and kitchen concept opening in Orland Park, Illinois ... This is an all-day, counter/fast-casual and dine-in operation. You will be expected to build ...

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Lab Operations Associate information

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$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.

Senior Research Associate - Sumitomo Biorational Company LLC

Libertyville, IL • On-site

Sumitomo Chemical Group Companies of America
See more jobs at Sumitomo Chemical Group Companies of Americaexternal

$73K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist in the design, build, screen/test, and cultivation of model and non-model organisms including bacteria, yeast, and fungi.

  • Perform routine strain engineering workflows and general molecular biology procedures, including DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, sequencing, ligation, assembly, transformations, and conjugation.

  • Support team members by preparing media, buffers, and reagents, and assist with QC and data collection.

Job description

About Us: 

Sumitomo Biorational Company is a worldwide leader in the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of biorational products for the agriculture, public health, and forestry markets. We have more than 60 years of experience bringing biorational products to market, and our products are used in sustainable operations in 95 countries around the world. Biorational products maximize plant quality, productivity, and sustainability. 

We operate with the Sumitomo Spirit mindset, which means to benefit both self and others, recognizing that private and public interests are one and the same. It’s about contributing to society, as well as making a profit. 

Description of Job: This individual will join Sumitomo Biorational Company’s Synthetic Biology department and contribute to internal metabolic engineering efforts in a variety of host microbial organisms, including prokaryotes and eukaryotes. This position will report to a Sr. Bioinformaticist in Synthetic Biology. 

Principal Responsibilities: 

  • Coordinate and conduct all work in strict compliance with applicable safety requirements, containment requirements, standard operating practices, and/or guidelines. 
  • Synthetic Biology 
    • Assist in the design, build, screen/test, and cultivation of model and non-model organisms including bacteria, yeast, and fungi. 
    • Perform routine strain engineering workflows and general molecular biology procedures, including DNA and RNA isolation and purification, PCR, sequencing, ligation, assembly, chemical and electrical transformations, and conjugation. 
    • Development of high-throughput assays, including the design and implementation of plate-based growth assays using Agilent BioTek instruments. 
    • Perform batch fermentations in either microtiter plates or flasks and prepare samples for submission for downstream organic extraction. 
    • Support team members by preparing specific solid and liquid media, buffers and reagents to support synthetic biology workflows. Assist with QC and data collection as requested. 
    • Accurate and well-organized record keeping of all experimental work for the development of SOPs and maintenance of an electronic laboratory notebook. 
    • Prepare comprehensive slide presentations summarizing key points and results, effectively communicate findings to a larger audience as needed. 
    • Maintenance of the laboratory including general housekeeping functions, inventory maintenance and organization, and equipment upkeep. 
    • Assist in the onboarding of research technicians by overseeing training of general lab operations and molecular biology procedures, organizing a clear training schedule and coordinating with other lab members as needed.
  • Regulatory  
    • Assist Regulatory permit submissions for the BRC. 
    • Assist USDA guideline training for all BRC members.

Required skills/experience: 

  • Passion for the expanding field of synthetic biology, especially as it relates to the development of novel products and sustainable solutions. 
  • Experience in microbial cultivation of E. coli and other hosts. 
  • Candidates with experience in one of the following: gram positive bacteria, automation tools or procedures, high-throughput assay or workflow, processing and/or analyzing Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) data would be preferred. 
  • Biotechnology software experience, such as Geneious and Snapgene is a plus. 
  • Works well in teams, especially with synthetic biology and microbiology group members but also across other research department functions. 
  • Strong communication, presentation and listening skills. 
  • Must be a self-starter with good organizational skills and detail-oriented. 
  • Will foster a culture of diversity and inclusion. 

Education:

  • BS/MS in Biology, Synthetic Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or Biochemistry with 2-5 years of relevant experience in a research environment. 

Travel: Limited travel will be required. (<5%) 

What We Offer

We recognize that compensation and benefits play a crucial role in your career decisions. That’s why we’re dedicated to equitable pay practices and transparency in how we reward our employees.

Base Salary: The estimated annual base salary for this position ranges from: 

$73,000 to $91,500. Individual pay is based upon location, skills, experience, and other relevant factors.  

Incentives: All full-time employees are eligible for an incentive program or profit-sharing program in addition to their base salary.

Benefits:

  • High-quality healthcare coverage starting on day one, with options for medical (HSA/HRA), vision, and dental plans
  • 5% company contribution to your 401(k), plus a quarterly discretionary bonus
  • Immediate 100% vesting of all retirement contributions
  • Financial assistance programs to support your goals
  • Life and disability insurance for added security
  • Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and volunteer days

Our Commitment to a Sustainable Future

At Sumitomo Biorational Company, we’re proud to power a sustainable future through our work. Sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) have been at the core of our culture since the beginning. Today, they continue to drive everything we do.

Join us in making a meaningful impact and contributing to a better world.

  • Sumitomo Biorational Company is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation and/or identity, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, disabilities, or protected veteran status.

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