ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lab Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Associate I

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$18.39/hr

Lab Associate I - Wood Dale, IL, Tuesday to Saturday, 1:00 AM to 9:30 AM 15% Night Shift ... other than trainees, in a licensed clinical laboratory. * Prepares pre-analytical reagents and ...

Northwestern University

Core Technician

Evanston, IL · On-site

$12/hr

Ensures the smooth flow and quality of daily work within the lab and ensures compliance in regard ... May assist in the training of technicians and trainees including students Miscellaneous Performs ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLab Trainee JobsLab Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL

Lab Trainee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$21

$37

How much do lab trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab trainee in Chicago, IL is $21.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get lab experience with no experience?

Lab trainees can gain experience by volunteering or interning in laboratories, taking relevant courses, and learning basic lab skills such as pipetting and data recording. Obtaining certifications like OSHA or safety training can also improve employability and demonstrate commitment to laboratory work.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Trainees during their initial months, and how can they be addressed?

Lab Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict safety protocols, learning to use specialized equipment, and managing time efficiently amidst multiple tasks. It's normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but proactively seeking guidance from experienced team members and regularly reviewing standard operating procedures can ease the transition. Open communication with supervisors and participating in hands-on training sessions also help build confidence and competence in the lab environment.

How to get a lab assistant job without experience?

To secure a lab assistant position without experience, focus on highlighting relevant skills such as attention to detail, basic laboratory techniques, and familiarity with lab equipment. Volunteering, internships, or coursework in science can also strengthen your application and demonstrate your interest in the field.

What is a lab technician trainee?

A lab technician trainee is an individual undergoing supervised training to develop skills in laboratory procedures, equipment use, and safety protocols. This role often serves as an entry point into laboratory careers and may require basic knowledge of science and certification in relevant safety standards.

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

To thrive as a Lab Trainee, you need a solid background in biological or chemical sciences, attention to detail, and often at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, basic data analysis software, and adherence to safety protocols are typically required. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and eagerness to learn help Lab Trainees excel and contribute positively to team dynamics. These skills ensure experiments are conducted accurately, safely, and efficiently, supporting reliable research outcomes.

Will AI replace lab technician?

AI technology can automate certain tasks performed by lab technicians, such as data analysis and sample processing, but it is unlikely to fully replace the role. Lab technicians also require hands-on skills, critical thinking, and oversight that AI cannot replicate entirely. AI tools are more likely to serve as complementary aids to improve efficiency and accuracy in laboratory work.

What is the difference between Lab Trainee vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab TraineeLab Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant education; no formal certification requiredUsually holds a diploma or certification in laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised, learning-focusedOperational laboratory environment, performing routine tests and procedures
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research labs, hospitals during trainingHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities

In summary, a Lab Trainee is primarily in a learning phase, gaining hands-on experience under supervision, while a Lab Technician is a trained professional responsible for conducting laboratory tests independently.

What are Lab Trainees?

Lab Trainees are individuals who are undergoing training in a laboratory setting to gain practical experience and develop essential skills in scientific research or testing. Their responsibilities often include assisting with experiments, preparing samples, maintaining equipment, and learning laboratory safety protocols. Lab Trainees work under the supervision of experienced scientists or technicians and may be students, recent graduates, or new employees. This position provides foundational experience necessary for a career in science or laboratory technology.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL? For Lab Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Lab Trainee jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Lab Trainee job openings:
Lab Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Trainee job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,317 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Onsite Technician Trainee

Onsite Technician Trainee

Surgical Instrument Service Company

Glendale Heights, IL

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Description

The Onsite Technician Trainee will be responsible for repairing and refurbishing a full range of surgical instruments according to industry best practices and company specifications. Work will be completed in a company-provided mobile lab which the trainee will learn to maintain. The Onsite Technician Trainee must be able to work independently and must exhibit the drive and integrity needed to provide consistent results for customers.


After successful completion of the initial training at the SIS headquarters, the Onsite Technician Trainee will be relocated to a customer location within the continental U.S. for a minimum of one year. This is a great opportunity for travel and to build a career. If relocation is not a possibility for you, please apply to other SIS job postings which do not require a move.


Requirements

During the course of training, the Onsite Technician Trainee will learn to:

  • Sharpen, straighten, align, refurbish, recondition, repair, replace missing or worn parts of customer instrumentation according to industry best practices and company guidelines
  • Repair, calibrate, refurbish all general and specialty instrumentation and various other medical equipment as is customary to repair in a mobile lab
  • Ensure all information provided to home office is correct and accurately recorded
  • Interact with hospital personnel in a professional manner to ascertain necessary repairs and make recommendations to hospital personnel regarding upkeep of instrumentation and to perform all other necessary interaction to ensure customer service satisfaction
  • Receive and return instrumentation to customer in a professional and timely manner, consult with hospital personnel regarding instrumentation and repairs, and make recommendations to hospital personnel regarding instrumentation as necessary
  • Maintain lab inventory and supply levels as well as adhere to SIS SOP for Mobile Repair Labs
  • Forward any equipment not designated for repair on Mobile Repair Lab to appropriate repair location
  • Maintain service logs for Mobile Lab and Mobile Lab accessories and equipment
  • Adhere to hospital criteria, products, special contract terms, etc
  • Perform and/or ensure periodic maintenance/repair of Mobile Lab (tire rotation/change, major motor, body, generator repair, etc.) or bring vehicle to a specialist for other maintenance and repair as appropriate
  • Generate and distribute paperwork to customers such as invoices, tray requests, tray rotation, and other documentation as required by SIS or the customer
  • Acquire a purchase order number from customers for each repair visit where appropriate
  • Maintain a master tray list for each customer including service dates
  • Identify areas of improvement regarding quality issues and offer solutions
  • Actively participate in continued education and training
  • Any and all duties as assigned by SIS

Capabilities:

  • Capable of using both hands to manipulate instruments, tools and machinery
  • Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English
  • Ability to work well under deadlines
  • Acute attention to detail
  • Ability to operate autonomously
  • Aptitude for analyzing and solving problems
  • Capable of standing/being on feet majority of the day
  • Capable of occasionally lifting items up to 50 pounds
  • Maintain a professional demeanor


Apply