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Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Normal, IL (NOW HIRING)

Research Lab Assistant information

See Normal, IL salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab assistant in Normal, IL is $19.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Research Lab Assistant, you need a background in laboratory sciences, attention to detail, and knowledge of standard lab procedures, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with lab equipment, safety protocols, and data management systems such as LIMS is typically expected. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively set standout candidates apart. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate experimental results, maintaining laboratory safety, and supporting research productivity.

What qualifications do I need to be a research assistant?

Research lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; many positions prefer or require a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or psychology. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with laboratory equipment or data analysis software are also important qualifications.

What are some common challenges faced by Research Lab Assistants, and how can they be effectively managed?

Research Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks simultaneously, maintaining accuracy in data collection, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Balancing administrative duties with hands-on lab work can be demanding, especially during busy project phases. Effective time management, clear communication with the research team, and organization skills are essential to successfully navigate these challenges. Proactively seeking clarification and regular training on lab procedures can also help minimize errors and improve efficiency.

Is it hard to get a job as a research assistant?

Securing a research lab assistant position can be competitive and often requires relevant coursework, strong organizational skills, and sometimes prior research experience. Candidates with good academic records, familiarity with laboratory tools, and the ability to follow protocols tend to have better chances of obtaining such roles.

What does a Research Lab Assistant do?

A Research Lab Assistant supports scientists and researchers by preparing and maintaining laboratory equipment, conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and ensuring the lab is clean and organized. They may also be responsible for documenting results, ordering supplies, and following safety protocols. Their role is essential for the smooth functioning of research projects and helps advance scientific studies efficiently.

What does a research assistant do in a lab?

A research lab assistant supports scientific experiments and data collection by preparing materials, maintaining equipment, and recording results. They often follow protocols, assist with analysis, and ensure the smooth operation of laboratory activities, typically requiring attention to detail and familiarity with lab tools and safety procedures.

What is the difference between Research Lab Assistant vs Research Technician?

AspectResearch Lab AssistantResearch Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certificationAssociate's degree or specialized training
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, assisting with experimentsLaboratory, often more hands-on with equipment
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech firmsResearch institutions, healthcare, biotech companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level research rolesClarifying technical support roles in labs

The main difference between a Research Lab Assistant and a Research Technician lies in their responsibilities and qualifications. Research Lab Assistants typically support experiments and perform basic lab tasks, often requiring an associate's degree. Research Technicians usually have more technical duties, including operating equipment and data collection, often with similar or additional certifications. Both roles are vital in research environments, but the Research Technician generally has more technical responsibilities.

Do research lab assistants get paid?

Research lab assistants typically receive compensation for their work, which can include hourly wages or stipends, depending on the institution or organization. Payment rates vary based on experience, education level, and the specific lab or project, and some positions may require prior training or certifications. Many research labs also offer opportunities for skill development and hands-on experience in scientific methods and equipment.
What job categories do people searching Research Lab Assistant jobs in Normal, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Research Lab Assistant jobs in Normal, IL are:
What cities near Normal, IL are hiring for Research Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Normal, IL with the most Research Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in Normal, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,172 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist - Hospital (BroMenn)

Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist - Hospital (BroMenn)

Carle Health

Normal, IL • On-site

$19.25 - $31.19/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Carle Health rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 210 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

261st of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

The Lab Phlebotomist - Hospital performs venipuncture and skin puncture in the hospital setting. Demonstrates excellent communication and patient care skills.

ResponsibilitiesPerforms a variety of routine and complex blood drawing procedures including but not limited to venipuncture, finger and heel sticks, and blood cultures.Ensure quality by verifying patient identification and specimen labeling.Maintains appropriate response times to stat and timed orders.Serves as part of the trauma and code response teams.The Hospital Phlebotomy team services the patients at Carle Foundation Hospital. This team serves patients from newborn to geriatric in the Emergency Department and all inpatient and outpatient areas of the hospital. The Hospital Phlebotomy team works closely with a variety of healthcare professionals to collect blood specimens for diagnostic testing. The Hospital Phlebotomy team collects blood from approximately 400 patients each 24-hour period. Hospital Phlebotomists work every other weekend and 3-4 holidays per year and cover 1-2 call shifts each week. Patients and specimens are identified using two identifiers: Name/Date of Birth or Name/Medical Record Number. Venipunctures are performed using a vacutainer needle and hub, a hypodermic needle with syringe, or a butterfly needle system. Complex blood drawing procedures include a variety of specialized blood collection kits for commercial laboratories and/or research. Blood cultures collected at Carle require Chloroprep skin decontamination at the draw site and vary from collection of a simple tube collection for Acid Fast or Fungal cultures, a set of Bactec blood culture bottles, or involve nurse coordination for a single or multiple-lumen port collection. The inpatient and Emergency Department expectations for response times are that STAT tests will be collected within 15 minutes of order and TIMED tests will be collected within a 30 minute window of time around the specified collection time (up to 15 minutes before or 15 minutes after the time indicated). Phlebotomists collect initial blood specimens for all patients classified as a Trauma. Successfully participates in all accreditation and other proficiency testing and annual performance competencies in each of the clinical laboratory testing areas. Participates in re-education or re-training as needed to ensure successful completion of all Proficiency and competency testing. Follows and maintains familiarity with laboratory and organizational policies and procedures. Reviews and records documentation of review as required. Complete Continuing Education as required by Lab policy and to maintain certification if applicable. Communicates information with internal and external customers as appropriate in an accurate, timely, effective and professional manner. Phlebotomists must demonstrate the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.QualificationsCertifications: , Education: H.S. Diploma/GED (Required), Work Experience: Carle Health Company Overview

Find it here.

Discover the job, the career, the purpose you were meant for. At Carle Health, we're committed to fostering a workplace where every team member feels valued, respected and empowered, where passion and purpose come together to positively impact the lives of our patients and our communities. Find it all at Carle Health.

Our nearly 17,000 team members and providers work together to support patient care across central and southeastern Illinois.  We've grown to include eight, award-winning hospitals and a multispecialty provider group with more than 1,500 doctors and advanced practice providers. We're developing the next generation of providers and healthcare professionals through Carle Illinois College of Medicine, the world's first engineering-based medical school, and Methodist College. Carle BroMenn Medical Center, Carle Foundation Hospital, Carle Health Methodist Hospital, Carle Health Proctor Hospital, Carle Health Pekin Hospital, and Carle Hoopeston Regional Health Center hold Magnet designations, the nation's highest honor for nursing care. We offer opportunities in several communities throughout central Illinois with potential for growth and life-long careers at Carle Health.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class. Carle Health participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. | For more information: human.resources@carle.com.

Salary RangeThe compensation range for this position is $19.25per hour - $31.19per hour. This represents a good faith minimum and maximum range for the role at the time of posting by Carle Health. The actual compensation offered a candidate will be dependent on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's experience, qualifications, location, training, licenses, shifts worked and compensation model. Carle Health offers a comprehensive benefits package for team members and providers. To learn more visit careers.carlehealth.org/benefits.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Carle

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Each and every employee at Carle makes us better and stronger, so we can take care of our patients and our community. From clinical to professional and technical careers – our team of employees help us change lives. Carle is proud to be named a Great Place to Work®. Alongside Carle BroMenn Medical Center, Carle Health Methodist Hospital, and Carle Health Proctor Hospital, the Carle Foundation Hospital holds Magnet® designation, the nation’s highest honor for nursing care.

Industry

Health care and social assistance and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Urbana, IL, US