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Lab Technician Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

AEG Vision

Optician

Mount Zion, IL

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Creates work orders for lab technicians, specifying information on lenses needed * Follows-up on all pending orders. Verifies all orders are within the time guidelines given and informs patients of ...

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All JobsLab Technician JobsLab Technician Jobs in Decatur, IL

Lab Technician information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$12

$21

$33

How much do lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab technician in Decatur, IL is $21.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.74 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges a Lab Technician may encounter during daily work and how can they effectively address them?

Lab Technicians often face challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, maintaining strict adherence to safety and quality protocols, and troubleshooting unexpected equipment issues. Effective time management and strong organizational skills are crucial for balancing these responsibilities. Proactively communicating with supervisors and collaborating with team members can help resolve technical problems quickly, while regular equipment maintenance and thorough documentation ensure smooth lab operations.

What is the difference between Lab Technician vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab TechnicianMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; certifications varyAssociate's degree in medical laboratory technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, industrial labs, environmental testingHospitals, clinics, medical labs
Industry UsageResearch, manufacturing, environmental testingHealthcare, medical diagnostics
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both Lab Technicians and Medical Laboratory Technicians work in laboratory settings, Medical Laboratory Technicians specifically focus on medical diagnostics in healthcare environments, often requiring specialized certification. Lab Technicians have broader roles across various industries, including research and manufacturing. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are lab technicians?

Lab technicians are professionals who perform technical tasks in laboratories, such as preparing samples, conducting tests, operating laboratory equipment, and recording results. They work in various fields, including medical, research, environmental, and industrial labs. Lab technicians play a crucial role in supporting scientists and healthcare professionals by ensuring that lab operations run smoothly and results are accurate. Their work often involves following strict protocols to maintain safety and quality standards.

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

To thrive as a Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, scientific principles, and at least an associate degree in a relevant field such as biology or chemistry. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), analytical instruments like spectrophotometers, and safety certifications (e.g., OSHA training) is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate results, compliance with safety standards, and smooth laboratory operations.

What Do Lab Technicians Do?

Lab technicians play an essential role in the study and treatment of diseases. They are responsible for assisting physicians in hospitals and doctor’s offices by collecting samples and performing tests on tissues, blood, and other body fluids. The tests they perform and the results they gather help doctors diagnose patients and determine causes of illnesses. Lab technicians may work in all general areas of a laboratory or doctor’s office, or they may choose to specialize. For example, immunohematology technologists collect and prepare blood donated for transfusions, while immunology technologists examine the human immune system.

More about Lab Technician jobs
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Lab Technician jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Lab Technician job openings:
Lab Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Technician job openings in Decatur, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,456 per year, or $21.9 per hour.
Medical Lab Scientist I - IP Lab Tech

Medical Lab Scientist I - IP Lab Tech

Memorial Health

Mount Auburn, IL

$45.64/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Memorial Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 170 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 870 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Min
USD $29.44/Hr.
Max
USD $45.64/Hr.
Overview
Collects, prepares and handles specimens for analysis from patients of all ages. Performs laboratory testings to aid in the diagnosis of diseases.
To review Memorial's Benefits click here: Benefits - Memorial HR
Qualifications
Education:
• Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences or related Allied Health field.
Licensure/Certification/Registry:
• Registered MLS (ASCP)/MT (ASCP) required within six months of hire or equivalent certification required within one year of hire.
Experience:
• Prior work experience preferred.
Other Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
• Moderate physical effort.
Responsibilities
  1. Performs various laboratory tests, evaluates data, verify the validity of patient test results through the evaluation of quality control sample values prior to reporting patient test results.
  1. Obtains blood and other body fluids from inpatients/outpatients of all ages, employees etc. as requested by authorized personnel.
  1. Operates hospital computer system acquiring necessary patient information to enter, delete or credit the patient's accounts.
  1. Perform preventative maintenance and follows equipment manufacturers troubleshooting guide to solve instrument problems.
  1. Embodies the Memorial Health System Performance Excellence Standards of Safety, Courtesy, Quality, and Efficiency that support our mission, vision and values:
  • SAFETY: Prevent Harm - I put safety first in everything I do. I take action to ensure the safety of others.
  • COURTESY: Serve Others - I treat others with dignity and respect. I project a professional image and positive attitude.
  • QUALITY: Improve Outcomes - I continually advance my knowledge, skills and performance. I work with others to achieve superior results.
  • EFFICIENCY: Reduce Waste - I use time and resources wisely. I prevent defects and delays.
  1. Demonstrates knowledge and theory behind instrumentation functions and malfunctions and decides when to use "back-up" instrument.
  1. Operates all instruments in assigned areas and performs all technical procedures with minimal supervision.
  1. Assists in orientation/training of new employees as directed.
  1. Participates in continuing education, meets requirements for all mandatory in-services.
  1. Assists in overall operations of the Lab including cost effective practices and safety regulations.
  1. Assists manager in overall departmental operations.
  1. Promotes health and safety in the work environment.
  1. Actively participates in competency assessment process.
  1. Maintains cross training in at least 2 technical areas
  1. Maintains confidentiality of information regarding all patient testing/results as detailed by hospital policy
  1. Assures compliance with all local, state, federal and national regulatory agencies.
  1. Performs other duties as assigned.

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