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Laboratory Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Bachelors or Associate degree in medical laboratory science or related field. * Three to five years' experience in a lab leadership position. Certification and Licensure * ASCP certification ...

Medical Laboratory Technician

Centralia, IL · On-site

$24.24 - $36.36/hr

Associate's degree or equivalent years of experience and education EXPERIENCE * No experience ... CLS - Clinical Laboratory Technician License - Montana Department of Labor & Industry * Or

Showing results 41-60

Laboratory Associate information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$21

$33

How much do laboratory associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory associate in Illinois is $21.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laboratory associate?

Laboratory Associates are professionals who assist with various tasks in a laboratory setting, such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, maintaining equipment, and recording data. They often work under the supervision of scientists or laboratory managers and play a crucial role in supporting research and development activities. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the specific laboratory and industry, but attention to detail, organizational skills, and knowledge of lab safety protocols are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laboratory associate?

To thrive as a Laboratory Associate, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and a background in biological or chemical sciences, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), safety protocols, and specialized equipment such as spectrophotometers or centrifuges is typically required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help Laboratory Associates excel in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These skills ensure accurate results, safety, and efficiency, which are vital for reliable scientific research and operations.

What are some typical challenges laboratory associates face when managing multiple experiments simultaneously?

Laboratory Associates often juggle several experiments at once, which requires strong organizational and time management skills. Balancing tasks such as sample preparation, data collection, and equipment maintenance can be challenging, especially when experiments have overlapping schedules or strict deadlines. Effective communication with team members and clear documentation are crucial to ensure that procedures are followed accurately and results remain reliable. Many labs use digital systems to track progress and share updates, which helps associates manage their workload efficiently.

What is the difference between Laboratory Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certificationAssociate degree or certification, often similar
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, healthcare, pharmaceutical settingsResearch, clinical, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, research institutions, biotech companiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Laboratory Associates and Laboratory Technicians often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. Both roles support laboratory operations in healthcare, research, or industrial settings. The main differences are often related to specific job duties and employer terminology, but they are frequently used interchangeably depending on the organization.

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

The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Associate jobs in Illinois?

For Laboratory Associate jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Laboratory Associate jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Laboratory Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Associate job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,085 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

$85K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Mercy Health rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 384 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

456th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assures compliance with current standards of accrediting and regulatory agencies and maintains a state of continuous survey readiness.
  • Assures all partners competency checks are performed in a timely manner; assures appropriate documentation of education, registry and training. Administrates continuing education program including documentation of all continuing education activities.
  • Coordinates and administrates the performance improvement process; coordinates production of new indicators, collects data, updates and posts dashboards and communicates results with partners.
  • Reviews and updates and develops general lab and safety policies
  • Investigates new technology as it becomes available, validates applicability to Mercyhealth labs, sets up demonstrations, gathers quotes and produces financial impact reports. Coordinates implementation of new technology; assures appropriate validation, training, procedures and documentation.
  • Administers Proficiency Testing Program; ordering appropriate products, monitoring performance, assisting with unsatisfactory result investigations.
  • Responds to Occurrence reports and Customer Comment Cards; performs investigation, completes response, contacts patient and makes procedural or partner corrections as necessary.
  • Serves on appropriate interdepartmental committees.
  • Plans for staffing needs; provides appropriate information to support requests for new positions. Interviews, selects and hires appropriate mix of partners.
  • Completes performance evaluations on direct reports.
  • Revises and reviews job descriptions as necessary; develops new descriptions as necessary.
  • Works with partners on day to day problem resolution, development of skills for career ladder and performs corrective actions and performance improvement plans as necessary.
  • Coordinates onboarding of new partners; sets up Epic/Beaker (Hospital Information/Lab Information System) access, keycard access, performs general lab orientation and basic Beaker training on all new hires.
  • Assesses and promotes efficient utilization of systems, personnel and equipment.
  • Assists with budgeting; obtains quotes for capital equipment, plans for staffing needs. Reviews monthly financial reports, investigates discrepancies and finds solutions to keep on target with fiscal year budget goals.

Culture of Excellence Behavior Expectations

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following behavior expectations:
Quality - Follows policies and procedures; adapts to and manages changes in the environment; Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness giving attention to details; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Manages time and prioritizes effectively to achieve organizational goals.
Service - Responds promptly to requests for service and assistance; Follows the Mercyhealth Critical Moments of service; Meets commitments; Abides by MH confidentiality and security agreement; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; and effectively communicates information to partners; Thinks system wide regarding processes and functions.
Partnering - Shows commitment to the Mission of Mercyhealth and Culture of Excellence through all words and actions; Exhibits objectivity and openness to other's views; Demonstrates a high level of participation and engagement in day-to-day work; Gives and welcomes feedback; Generates suggestions for improving work: Embraces teamwork, supports and encourages positive change while giving value to individuals.
Cost - Conserves organization resources; Understands fiscal responsibility; Works within approved budget; Develops and implements cost saving measures; contributes to profits and revenue.


Education and Experience

  • Bachelors or Associate degree in medical laboratory science or related field.
  • Three to five years' experience in a lab leadership position.


Certification and Licensure

  • ASCP certification preferred.


Skills and Abilities
N/A

Special Physical Demands

The Special Physical Demands are considered Essential Job Functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to sit and stand; walk; climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Vision requires near acuity and color vision. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.


Level of Supervision

Must be able to work independently with minimal supervision.


Supervises

Laboratory Partners

PAY RANGE:

$85,657.10 - $137,051.36

Mercyhealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

Mercyhealth offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision

  • Life & Disability Insurance

  • FSA/HSA Options

  • Generous, accruing paid time off

  • Paid Parental and caregiver leave

  • Career advancement and educational opportunities

  • Tuition and certification reimbursement

  • Certification Reimbursement

  • Well-being Programs

  • Employee Discounts

  • On-Demand Pay

  • Financial Education

  • Annual recognition/awards events

  • Partner appreciation days

  • Family entertainment/attractions discount

  • Community service/improvement opportunities

Click here for more details regarding Mercyhealth Careers Benefit Information.

At Mercyhealth, we don't simply hire people, we empower employee-partners who are passionate about making lives better. As an integrated health system, we deliver exceptional, coordinated across seven hospitals, 85 primary and specialty clinics, and a team of over 7,500 professionals serving northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.

Mercyhealth has been nationally recognized for our commitment to our people and culture, including:

  • #1 in the nation on AARP's Best Employers for Workers Over 50

  • One of Working Mother magazine's 100 Best Companies for Working Mothers

  • A Top 50 Company and Top 10 Nonprofit for Executive Women


What Mercy Health employees say

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Benefits

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About Mercyhealth

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Mercyhealth, we don’t simply hire people – instead, we empower talented, dedicated health care professionals to provide the highest quality patient care possible with a passion for making lives better. As an integrated health care provider, we provide exceptional, coordinated health care. The organization consists of seven hospitals, 85+ clinics, and more than 7,500 employee-partners to serve patients in 15 counties throughout northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. We hope you’ll consider becoming the newest member of the Mercyhealth family and join our passion for making lives better!

Industry

Hospitals, fitness and sports centers and health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Janesville, WI, US