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Laboratory Operations Associate Jobs in Champaign, IL

Laboratory Operations Associate information

See Champaign, IL salary details

$11

$26

$53

How much do laboratory operations associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory operations associate in Champaign, IL is $26.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $30.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laboratory operations associate?

Laboratory Operations Associates are professionals who support the daily functioning of laboratories by managing supplies, maintaining equipment, overseeing safety protocols, and assisting with administrative tasks. They play a crucial role in ensuring that lab environments run efficiently and comply with all regulatory standards. Their responsibilities often include inventory management, equipment calibration, and coordinating with scientists and technicians. This position is essential for smooth laboratory workflow and helps enable scientific research and testing.

What does a laboratory operations associate do?

A typical day for a Laboratory Operations Associate involves preparing and maintaining laboratory equipment, managing inventory of supplies, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. They often coordinate with scientists, lab technicians, and quality assurance teams to support ongoing experiments or production processes. Their role requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail, as well as the ability to adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment. Collaboration and clear communication are key, as they help facilitate smooth lab operations and minimize downtime.

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

To thrive as a Laboratory Operations Associate, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a background in laboratory sciences or related fields, often supported by a bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), inventory tracking software, and safety protocols is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you efficiently support lab workflows and collaborate with scientists and technicians. These skills are critical to maintaining laboratory efficiency, ensuring compliance, and supporting high-quality research outcomes.

What is the difference between Laboratory Operations Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory Operations AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certificationAssociate degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentLab support, logistics, equipment managementPerforming tests, analyzing samples
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in biotech, pharma, research labsCommon in clinical, research, manufacturing labs
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level roles in lab supportCompared for technical testing roles

Laboratory Operations Associates focus on supporting lab functions, logistics, and equipment management, while Laboratory Technicians primarily perform testing and sample analysis. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are essential in lab environments, but they differ in daily responsibilities and focus areas.

What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Laboratory Operations Associate jobs?

Cities near Champaign, IL with the most Laboratory Operations Associate job openings:

Office Support Associate - Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering (College of LAS)

University of Illinois

Urbana, IL • On-site

$39K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Office Support Associate
Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering
School of Chemical Sciences
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Job Summary
To provide office support in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. This position will independently perform a broad range of administrative and operational duties in support of the department's business functions and daily operations.Duties & Responsibilities
Business Operations and Resource Management
• Assists with coordination and completion of travel arrangements for the department, faculty, and laboratory groups; prepares, processes, and reconciles associated purchases, travel reimbursements, expense reports, and related financial transactions, ensuring compliance with applicable policies and procedures.
• Assists in administrative support for departmental purchasing processes, including sourcing laboratory and office supplies, obtaining quotes and cost comparisons, processing purchases, and maintaining related procurement documentation.
• Assists with departmental records retention in accordance with established procedures
• Monitors and maintains departmental copiers and related equipment to ensure proper functionality and performs copying, scanning, and document management activities
• Coordinates the checkout, return, and tracking of departmental keys and equipment.
• Reports facility repair and maintenance needs to the appropriate personnel and follows up as needed to ensure timely resolution.
• Monitors the department's student computer labs and reports issues to the appropriate personnel
• Ability to follow established department and university established processes and procedures
• Performs other duties and projects as assigned
Administrative Operations and Communications
• Welcomes and directs visitors, answers telephone inquiries, and responds to routine questions, requests, and concerns in a professional and courteous manner.
• Assists with administrative and departmental calendar management including but not limited to room reservations and facility requests for the department
• Maintains current knowledge of departmental events, programs, and activities to provide accurate information and timely responses to routine inquiries, and assists with the planning, organization, and coordination of these events.
• Demonstrates proficiency in using WebTools to create, update, and maintain calendars, electronic forms to support departmental communication and administrative processes
• Assists with administrative and operational support including but not limited to preparing and organizing instructional materials, educational resources, correspondence, reports, and other related materials.
• Sorts and distributes mail to proper department mailboxes.
• Maintains a position-specific procedures job manual and updates process and procedures as needed.
• Provides general office support to the department's Student Services Office
• Performs other duties and projects as assigned
Required Qualifications
1.High school diploma or equivalent.
2.Any one or combination totaling eighteen (18) months from the categories below:
A.College coursework in any curriculum as measured by the following conversion table or its proportional equivalent:
30 semester hours equals one (1) year (12 months)
Associate's Degree (60 semester hours) equals eighteen months (18 months)
B.Work experience performing office/clerical activities, including the use of computer systems.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Ability to communicate effectively with others.
  • Ability to professionally interact with internal and external constituents, including students, faculty, staff, and parents.
  • Commitment to creating an inclusive environment.
  • Ability to work harmoniously with faculty, staff, and students from a wide variety of disciplines.
  • Ability to effectively multi-task and stay organized.
  • Effective time management skills.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality in all business matters.
  • Working knowledge of grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
  • Ability to acquire knowledge of University and College requirements, procedures, rules, and regulations.
  • Ability to acquire knowledge of various computer software systems.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 0846 - Office Support Associate position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the deadline date. This is a bargained position and as such, the salary is driven by the collective bargaining agreement. The wage for this position is $39,159.90.This position is not eligible for any type of sponsorship for work authorization. Hybrid work options may be available for this position after an initial on-site training period, with the ability to be on-site at the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign campus as needed per the University's Workplace Flexibility policy.
For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on August 31, 2026. To apply for this position, please create a candidate profile at https://jobs.illinois.edu, use the Apply Now button on the posting and upload your cover letter, resume (months and years of employment must be included), and names/contact information for three professional references. Please remember to include specific information on how you meet the qualifications of the position in your application materials, including all relevant experiences.
Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment.
For further information about this specific position, please contact lascollegehiring@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - the state's flagship public university and one of the world's leading research institutions - every staff member helps shape what's next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you're empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence - where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.
Champaign-Urbana
The University of Illinois must also comply with applicable federal export control laws and regulations and, as such, reserves the right to employ restricted party screening procedures for applicants.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 1037735
Job Category: Administrative Support
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu

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About University of Illinois

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The University of Illinois, located in Urbana, Illinois, US, is a prominent entity in the higher education sector. Operating its official functions through its website uillinois.edu, the institution provides a range of educational programs and services. The University was founded in 1867 and has since grown dramatically both in size and reputation. Its core values are embodied in its mission to enhance the lives of its students and citizens in the state, nation, and world through leadership in learning, discovery, engagement, and economic development. The university boasts several notable achievements including producing Nobel laureates and Pulitzer prize winners. It is renowned for its research programs and is known for significant advancements across various fields including engineering, science, and humanities.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Urbana, IL, US

Year founded

1974

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