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Lab Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

As a Senior Lab Technician, you'll support a wide range of laboratory operations-from preparing and analyzing samples to maintaining equipment and mentoring new team members. You'll collaborate ...

The Industrial Electrical Infrastructure (IEI) Lab Technician Senior leads testing across specialized product lines, partnering closely with engineers and lab leadership to deliver high-impact ...

As a Senior Lab Technician, you'll support a wide range of laboratory operations-from preparing and analyzing samples to maintaining equipment and mentoring new team members. You'll collaborate ...

IEI Lab Technician Sr

Lockport, IL · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

The Industrial Electrical Infrastructure (IEI) Lab Technician Senior leads testing across specialized product lines, partnering closely with engineers and lab leadership to deliver high-impact ...

Lab Technician, Biology

Joliet, IL · On-site

$20.70 - $21.94/hr

Lab Technician, Natural Science (Biology) POSITION: Lab Technician, Biology STATUS:Full-Time DEPARTMENT: Natural Sciences and Physical Education, Main Campus DIVISION: Academic Affairs CLASSIFICATION:

Lab Technician

Harvey, IL · On-site

$46K - $64K/yr

Lab Technician Who we are: Atkore is forging a future where all Atkore brands, suppliers, employees, customers, partners, and communities are building better together - a future focused on serving ...

Cath Lab Technologist- Contract

Chicago, IL · On-site

$2.4K - $3.1K/wk

Are you an experienced Cath Lab Technologist looking for a rewarding opportunity in a fast-paced and patient-centered setting? Join our team in the northern Chicago suburbs for a 3-month contract ...

Medical lab Technician /Technologist are responsible for accurately processing, analyzing and reporting laboratory results with limited supervision while maintain confidentiality and ethical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Lab information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$26

$46

How much do lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab in Chicago, IL is $26.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $28.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lab vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectLabMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsVaries; often includes certifications or degrees in laboratory sciencesTypically requires an associate degree in medical laboratory technology and certification
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, industrial labs, academic institutionsHospitals, clinics, healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, biotech companies, universitiesHealthcare providers, hospitals, diagnostic labs
Common Search & ComparisonLab vs Medical Laboratory Technician

While both roles involve laboratory work, 'Lab' is a broad term that can refer to various types of laboratories, including research and industrial settings. Medical Laboratory Technicians specifically work in healthcare environments, performing diagnostic tests to assist in patient care. The key differences lie in their work settings, required credentials, and industry focus.

What jobs can I do in a lab?

In a lab, common jobs include laboratory technician, research scientist, lab assistant, and quality control analyst. These roles often require knowledge of scientific methods, laboratory equipment, and safety protocols, and may require relevant certifications or degrees in science or related fields.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for someone working in a laboratory setting?

In a laboratory role, daily responsibilities often include preparing and analyzing samples, maintaining accurate records of experiments, calibrating and cleaning equipment, and following strict safety protocols. Team members may also assist with data analysis, report findings, and collaborate with researchers or other departments to support ongoing projects. Effective communication and attention to detail are essential, as lab work often contributes directly to larger research or production goals.

What are lab technicians?

Lab technicians are professionals who perform laboratory tests and procedures to assist scientists, doctors, or researchers in analyzing samples and conducting experiments. They work in various settings, such as hospitals, research facilities, and industrial labs, handling tasks like preparing specimens, operating lab equipment, and recording data. Their work is essential for diagnosing diseases, supporting scientific research, and ensuring the quality of products.

What are different jobs in a lab?

Jobs in a lab include roles such as laboratory technician, research scientist, lab manager, and quality control analyst. These positions often require knowledge of laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes specific certifications or degrees in science or technology. Lab jobs can be found in healthcare, research institutions, manufacturing, and environmental testing environments.

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

To thrive as a Laboratory Technician, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in biology or chemistry, typically supported by an associate or bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data management software such as LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is essential. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure accurate testing, reliable results, and a safe, efficient laboratory environment.

What profession works in a laboratory?

Laboratory professionals include roles such as lab technicians, medical laboratory scientists, research scientists, and microbiologists. These professionals perform experiments, analyze samples, and operate specialized equipment in settings like hospitals, research facilities, and industrial labs, often requiring relevant certifications or degrees.

What is the highest paying laboratory job?

The highest paying laboratory jobs are often senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Principal Investigators, who oversee research projects and laboratory operations. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills, with salaries often exceeding six figures depending on the industry and location.
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 cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Lab jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Lab job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,099 per year, or $26 per hour.
Senior Lab Technician

Senior Lab Technician

Ecolab

Naperville, IL • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Ecolab rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 209 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 92 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 Senior Lab Technician to join our team in Naperville, IL. As a Senior Lab Technician, you'll support a wide range of laboratory operations-from preparing and analyzing samples to maintaining equipment and mentoring new team members. You'll collaborate closely with scientists and technicians to ensure accurate testing, troubleshoot challenges, and contribute to a safe, organized, and high-performing lab environment.
How You'll Make an Impact:
  • Follow all safety procedures and risk assessments
  • Prepare samples following preparation techniques on water samples
  • Support Water Lab workstations providing dilution activities
  • Keep track and sort samples for daily lab work
  • Conduct a variety of chemical testing procedures by working with laboratory instruments to gather results
  • Record and analyze testing results consistently and accurately in Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
  • Train new members of the team in lab techniques after gaining expertise in those areas
  • Maintain equipment in operating condition and order supplies and services as needed
  • Routine laboratory cleaning

Position Details:
  • Plant Location: Naperville, IL
  • Work Week & Shift: Monday - Friday, 7:30am - 4:00pm

What is 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:
  • Associate's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or relevant science discipline
  • 1 year of lab-based experience
  • Immigration sponsorship is not offered for this role

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
  • Bachelor's degree in chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or relevant science discipline
  • Proficiency and expertise in utilizing, calibrating, and maintaining technical laboratory equipment
  • Wet chemistry analytical experience
  • Experience with statistical methods for data analysis and trending
  • Strong interpersonal communication skills, including excellent oral and technical writing capabilities
  • Experience multi-tasking and managing numerous projects simultaneously
  • Experience using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint)

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 rate for this role is $28.00 per hour. 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 provides the following benefits: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, hospital indemnity insurance, auto insurance, home insurance, pet insurance, identity theft protection, short-term and long-term disability, 401k, pension plans, retirement health care benefits, short-term incentives, vacation (12 days), holidays, parental leave, employee stock purchase plans (Full-Time Associates), discount on day care services and caregiver services, adoption assistance, group legal services, employee assistance program, employee discount program, and education assistance program, on-Site childcare and fitness facilities may be available at select Ecolab locations. Click here for additional benefits information. 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.
- Be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, including a booster if eligible, unless a religious or medical accommodation is requested by the applicant and approved by Ecolab.
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.

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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