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Lab Scientist Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Medical Lab Scientist We are seeking a dedicated Medical Lab Scientist to ensure quality test results by operating a variety of laboratory equipment and performing manual methods. The successful ...

The Lead Clinical Lab Scientist assists management in overseeing and directing work of technical personnel engaged in performing various routine and complex laboratory tests. In doing so, establishes ...

Lab Seeking Medical / Clinical Lab Scientist for fulltime evening position in Fallon, NV. Make a positive impact in your local community in this amazing role. POSITION SUMMARY This position is ...

Clinical Lab * Schedule: Per Diem (as needed), Evenings * Facility: Prime Healthcare St Francis ... health science or Medical Laboratory Technology from an accredited institution, or other ...

Clinical Lab • Schedule: Evening Shift- 3pm-11:30pm - Part-Time with rotating holidays and ... health science or Medical Laboratory Technology from an accredited institution, or other ...

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Lab Scientist information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$24

$43

How much do lab scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab scientist in Illinois is $24.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.65 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab scientist?

Lab scientists, also known as laboratory scientists or clinical laboratory scientists, are professionals who perform tests and analyses on samples such as blood, tissue, and other bodily fluids. They work in medical, research, or industrial laboratories to help diagnose diseases, conduct experiments, and ensure the quality of products or research results. Their role is vital in supporting doctors with accurate data for diagnosis and treatment, as well as advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.

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

To thrive as a Lab Scientist, you need a strong background in biology or chemistry, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, typically supported by a relevant science degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), analytical instruments, and safety protocols is essential, and certifications such as ASCP can be advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate experimental results, maintain safety standards, and foster successful teamwork in research or clinical environments.

What are some common challenges faced by lab scientists when working on collaborative research projects?

Lab Scientists often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, which can present challenges such as aligning on research objectives, coordinating experiment timelines, and ensuring consistent data sharing protocols. Effective communication and adaptability are essential for managing differing scientific perspectives or methods. Building strong working relationships and leveraging project management tools can help Lab Scientists navigate these challenges and contribute positively to team outcomes.

What is the difference between Lab Scientist vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab ScientistLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant science field; often requires certification or licensingAssociate's degree or diploma in laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, academic institutionsClinical labs, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesDesign experiments, analyze data, interpret results, develop new testing methodsPrepare samples, operate lab equipment, perform routine tests, record data
Industry UsageUsed across research, healthcare, biotech, and pharmaceutical sectorsPrimarily in clinical diagnostics and routine testing environments

In summary, Lab Scientists typically hold higher educational credentials and focus on research, analysis, and development, while Laboratory Technicians perform routine testing and sample preparation. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

Are lab scientists in demand?

Lab scientists are in high demand due to ongoing advancements in healthcare, biotechnology, and research industries. Employment opportunities are expected to grow faster than average, especially for those with specialized skills, certifications, and experience working with laboratory equipment and data analysis tools.

How much do lab scientists get paid?

Lab scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $55,000 to $75,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can vary based on specialization, certifications, and the work environment, such as research labs or clinical settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Scientist jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Lab Scientist jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Lab Scientist jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Lab Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Scientist job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,890 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Medical Lab Scientist

Actalent

Hoffman Estates, IL

$31.25 - $36.54/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Medical Lab Scientist

Job Description

We are seeking a dedicated Medical Lab Scientist to ensure quality test results by operating a variety of laboratory equipment and performing manual methods. The successful candidate will identify and communicate abnormal patient conditions, alert supervisory personnel and designated officials, and adhere to strict quality control policies. You will also be responsible for maintaining clean and organized workspaces and ensuring that all test systems are functioning properly.

Responsibilities

  • Identify and communicate abnormal patient conditions to appropriate personnel.
  • Operate general chemistry, immunochemistry, molecular microbiology, and LCMS equipment.
  • Organize and analyze work by matching computer orders with specimen labeling.
  • Monitor test analyses and specimen examinations to maintain acceptable levels of analytic performance.
  • Adhere to laboratory quality control policies and document all related activities.
  • Maintain quality results by running standards and controls and troubleshooting equipment.
  • Identify and correct problems affecting test performance or notify the technical supervisor.
  • Ensure that patient test results are reported only after corrective actions are taken.
  • Document all corrective actions when test systems deviate from established specifications.
  • Perform preventative and corrective maintenance on instrumentation and record actions taken.

Essential Skills

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS/CLS) or equivalent.
  • ASCP certification up to date.
  • 3-5 years of total experience in a clinical lab environment.
  • Minimum of 2 years experience with Beckman-Coulter AU680 analyzers.
  • Experience in chemistry bench work, specifically in healthcare urine/blood testing.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced lab environment.
  • Capability to process 1000+ samples per shift.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Strong experience in microbiology and chemistry.
  • Familiarity with PCR and Biofire technologies.

Work Environment

The lab encompasses R&D, specimen receiving, chemistry, and microbiology sectors. Work hours are Sunday-Thursday or Tuesday-Saturday, from 2:30 pm to 11:00 pm. Training spans approximately two weeks, Monday through Friday during the day. The workplace fosters a great team 'family' environment with a supportive culture and numerous fun activities such as food trucks, dress-down days, and talent shows. Employees enjoy holiday pay and vacation benefits, including five holidays.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Hoffman Estates, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $31.25 - $36.54/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Hoffman Estates,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 2, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications withoutregard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protectedby law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification oradjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in thecity and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicantswith arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as acondition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this lawshall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process,including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applicationsand qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, youacknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

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