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Pharmaceutical Lab Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lab Planner

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

A Lab Planner will be responsible for assisting the laboratory project planning effort toward the ... sized pharmaceutical, academic research, biotech, or other emerging technical facilities.

Lab Planner

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

A Lab Planner will be responsible for assisting the laboratory project planning effort toward the ... sized pharmaceutical, academic research, biotech, or other emerging technical facilities.

... pharmaceutical companies. The name Sotera Health was inspired by Soteria, the Greek goddess of ... Sotera Health Company is a leading global provider of mission-critical sterilization and lab ...

Lab Technician

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Lab Technician Job Summary The Lab Technician supports laboratory and product development ... Required Qualifications * 1+ year of laboratory experience in food, chemical, pharmaceutical ...

Travel Cath Lab Tech

Oak Park, IL · On-site

$2.2K - $3.0K/wk

Cath Lab Technologist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per ... pharmacists, and other clinicians of all specialties in all 50 states. They offer local and travel ...

As a Cath Lab RN, you'll work with a highly skilled team of medical professionals in a ... pharmacists, and other clinicians of all specialties in all 50 states. They offer local and travel ...

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Pharmaceutical Lab information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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$46

How much do pharmaceutical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for pharmaceutical 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 a pharmaceutical lab?

A Pharmaceutical Lab job involves conducting research, testing, and analysis to develop and ensure the safety, quality, and effectiveness of medications. Professionals in this role may work on formulation, stability testing, quality control, or regulatory compliance. They follow strict protocols and use specialized equipment to analyze drug compounds. These jobs are essential for bringing new medications to market and maintaining high standards in pharmaceutical production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the pharmaceutical lab position?

Success in a Pharmaceutical Lab role requires a strong background in chemistry, biology, or a related scientific field, with relevant laboratory experience and a bachelor's degree or higher. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical instruments (such as HPLC, GC, or spectrophotometers), Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), and sometimes certifications like CLIA are highly valuable. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork help individuals excel in this environment. These skills ensure accurate research results, compliance with regulatory standards, and smooth lab operations.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities for someone working in a pharmaceutical lab?

Pharmaceutical Lab professionals often start as lab technicians or analysts and can progress to senior scientist or supervisory roles with experience and additional qualifications. Many companies encourage continuing education, offering opportunities to specialize in areas like quality control, regulatory affairs, or method development. Career growth can also involve cross-functional collaboration, leading to roles in research management or project leadership. Advancement is typically performance-based, with a focus on technical expertise, reliability, and effective teamwork.

How to become a pharmaceutical lab technician?

To become a pharmaceutical lab technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by postsecondary education such as a certificate or an associate degree in laboratory technology, chemistry, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory equipment, and understanding of safety protocols; certification is not always required but can improve job prospects.

What does a pharmaceutical lab do?

A pharmaceutical lab conducts research, development, and testing of drugs to ensure their safety, efficacy, and quality. Lab technicians and scientists perform experiments, analyze samples, and use specialized equipment to develop new medications and verify existing ones meet regulatory standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pharmaceutical Lab jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Pharmaceutical Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Pharmaceutical Lab jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Pharmaceutical Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Pharmaceutical Lab job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,099 per year, or $26 per hour.

Overnight Associate Scientist (12-Hour Shifts)

Fresenius Kabi

Melrose Park, IL • On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Fresenius Kabi rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Job Summary
Hourly Rate: $26.00-$28.00 per hour
Overnight Shift Differential: $1.75 per hour
Final pay determinations will depend on various factors, including, but not limited to experience level, education, knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Our benefits and programs are comprehensive and thoughtfully crafted to ensure our colleagues live healthy lives and have support when it matters most. Benefits offered include a 401(k) plan with company contributions, paid vacation, holiday and personal days, employee assistance program, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage.
Responsibilities
Responsible for collection and testing of routine environmental monitoring samples within aseptic processing fill lines, Isolator fill line, compounding, sterility suite, and component preparation areas for aseptic lines (Building A) and clean rooms areas in new expansion Building B. Collect and test utility samples such as WFI, clean steam and compressed gases. Monitors environmental conditions in laboratory areas during test sessions. Reports testing results and documents in compliance with cGMP and GLP standards. Provides support to Scientist, Lead Scientist, and Supervisor. Prepares media, reagents, sanitizing solutions and equipment for use in testing.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Perform environmental monitoring in controlled areas for non-viable airborne particulate, viable airborne bioburden, viable surface bioburden, settle plate bioburden and personnel monitoring.
  • Maintain gowning certification and apply good aseptic technique and clean room behavior.
  • Collect and process samples for water for Injection (WFI), clean steam and compressed gases according to established standard operating procedures.
  • Perform bioburden, endotoxin, Total Organic Carbon (TOC), and conductivity testing for utility samples.
  • Perform sub-culturing and Gram-staining of microorganisms.
  • Perform growth promotion on incoming media to release for monitoring use in the facility.
  • Maintain and review temperature records, lab cleaning records, and logbooks.
  • Input results in Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) database and track microbiological results. Must be able to understand and follow company's good documentation practices.
  • Compile and submit environmental monitoring data for critical system release.
  • Supports Scientist/ Lead Scientist/ Supervisor with testing and special projects. Carries out special projects independently as required and assigned by supervision.
  • Aids with plant and laboratory equipment re-qualifications as directed.
  • Promptly reports data discrepancies and out of limit conditions to supervision. Carries out documentation, and assist Scientist and Lead Scientist with investigation, incident reports and corrective actions as assigned.
  • Assists in training new departmental personnel in standard operating procedures, training modules and checklists.
  • Keeps supervisory personnel informed of all relevant events impacting the operations and performance of the department.
  • Maintains compliance with company policies, training requirements, cGMP's.
  • Follow safety requirements, maintains good housekeeping of lab areas including 5S

Job Requirements:
  • Bachelors Degree in Science related field
  • Associates Degree in Science related field with 1-3 years of relevant laboratory experience or progressive pharmaceutical lab experience
  • Some college with 5 or more years of relevant laboratory experience or progressive pharmaceutical lab experience. Applicable industries include but are not limited to testing laboratories, food, cosmetic, veterinary, or hospital laboratories

The Company's primary business language is English. The successful candidate must be able to effectively speak, read, write, and understand English to perform the essential functions of the position, including independently understanding policies, procedures, training materials, and workplace communications written in English due to our heavily regulated work environment.
Additional Information
We offer an excellent salary and benefits package including medical, dental and vision coverage, as well as life insurance, disability, 401K with company contribution, and wellness program.
Please note that joining our team does not create a guaranteed or permanent employment arrangement. All employment is at-will, meaning both the employee and Fresenius Kabi have the right to end the employment relationship at any time, in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.
Fresenius Kabi is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, disabilities, or protected veteran status.

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