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Science Lab Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Lab Technician

Joliet, IL · On-site

$27/hr

Strong background in scientific skills and lab analysis * Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications * Strong verbal and written communication skills What's in it For You: * Starting on Day 1 : ...

Lab Technician

Joliet, IL · On-site

$27/hr

Strong background in scientific skills and lab analysis * Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications * Strong verbal and written communication skills What's in it For You: * Starting on Day 1 : ...

Position: Medical Lab Scientist -Generalist Location: Edward Hospital 801 S. Washington St ... Associate's Degree or higher in Medical Technology or Clinical Laboratory Science * Registration ...

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Science Lab information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$33.5K

$48.8K

$72.1K

How much do science lab jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for science lab in Chicago, IL is $48,753.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,600.00 and $53,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a science laboratory, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in science labs often encounter challenges such as maintaining rigorous safety standards, managing time effectively to balance experiments and documentation, and troubleshooting unexpected results or equipment malfunctions. Collaboration with colleagues and clear communication are essential for resolving technical issues and ensuring experiments run smoothly. Regular training, adherence to protocols, and staying up-to-date with the latest scientific methods can help address these challenges and support career growth within the lab environment.

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

To thrive as a Science Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and scientific principles, usually backed by a degree in a science field. Proficiency in using lab equipment, data analysis software, and familiarity with inventory management systems are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong organizational skills help set outstanding lab technicians apart. These skills are essential for maintaining accurate results, ensuring lab safety, and supporting efficient scientific research operations.

What are science labs and what do people do in them?

Science labs are specialized spaces equipped for scientific research, experiments, and instruction. In these labs, scientists, students, or technicians use various tools and materials to conduct experiments, analyze data, and test hypotheses. The work often involves following strict safety protocols, documenting results, and collaborating with others to advance scientific understanding. Science labs can be found in schools, universities, research institutions, and industries, each tailored to specific fields like chemistry, biology, or physics.

What is the difference between Science Lab vs Science Technician?

AspectScience LabScience Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in science or related fieldOften requires an associate degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, educational institutionsLaboratories, industrial settings, educational institutions
Job RoleConducts experiments, research, and analysisPrepares lab equipment, assists with experiments, maintains lab safety
Industry UsageResearch, education, healthcareManufacturing, education, research support

Science Lab professionals focus on conducting experiments and research, often requiring higher education. Science Technicians support laboratory operations, handling equipment and safety. Both roles are essential in scientific environments but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Science Lab jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Science Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Science Lab jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Science Lab job openings:
Senior Lab Technician

Senior Lab Technician

Ecolab

Naperville, IL • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Ecolab rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 195 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 89 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 such as corrosion coupons, press fabrics, solid deposits, resins, or reverse osmosis membranes
  • Conduct a variety of materials and 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
  • Prepare and stock supplies for daily lab work
  • 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.

What Ecolab employees say

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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