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$45

$48

$50

How much do scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientist in Decatur, IL is $48.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.12 and $49.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Scientist do?

A Scientist is a professional who conducts research to increase knowledge in a specific field, such as biology, chemistry, physics, or environmental science. They design and perform experiments, analyze data, and publish their findings to advance understanding and solve real-world problems. Scientists may work in laboratories, universities, government agencies, or private industry. Their work often contributes to technological advancements, public health, and policy development.

What jobs do scientists have?

Scientists work in various fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and data analysis. They conduct research, perform experiments, analyze data, and develop new theories or products, often working in laboratories, research institutions, or industry settings. Many scientists also require specialized skills, certifications, and access to scientific tools and equipment.

What Does a Scientist Do?

Scientists work in a remarkably diverse array of industries. Companies employ scientists to develop and improve products. Universities hire scientists to teach and do research in different disciplines; healthcare companies have a team of scientists working on medications, vaccines, and new treatments; and governments employ scientists to help with public projects. Scientists not only perform their specific job duties, but they contribute to the broader scientific community to increase knowledge of the physical world.

What is the difference between Scientist vs Chemist?

AspectScientistChemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's, Master's, or PhD in science-related fieldsBachelor's, Master's, or PhD in chemistry or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, industry settingsLaboratories, manufacturing plants, research institutions
Industry UsageBroadly used across scientific research, academia, industryPrimarily in chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, quality control

While both Scientists and Chemists work in research and laboratory settings, Scientists have a broader scope across various scientific fields, whereas Chemists specialize specifically in chemistry. Chemists often focus on chemical reactions, compounds, and materials, while Scientists may work in multiple disciplines such as biology, physics, or environmental science. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments, but their specific focus areas differ based on industry needs.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

For a scientist or related roles, high-paying positions without a degree are rare; most scientific careers require at least a bachelor's degree. However, some technical or specialized roles in fields like sales, real estate, or skilled trades can reach or exceed $10,000 monthly with experience and skills. Freelance consulting or entrepreneurial ventures in science-related areas may also achieve this income level without formal degrees, but they typically require significant expertise and network development.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the field of science, senior roles such as lead researchers, principal scientists, or those in specialized industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or data science can earn $400,000 or more annually, often with advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation is typically associated with executive-level positions or roles in high-demand, high-impact sectors.

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

To thrive as a Scientist, you need a solid background in your scientific discipline, strong analytical skills, and typically at least a bachelor's or advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or R), and adherence to safety protocols are commonly required. Critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating and sharing findings. These skills ensure rigorous research, reliable results, and impactful contributions to scientific advancement.

What are some common challenges scientists face when working on multidisciplinary research teams?

Scientists often collaborate with experts from various fields, which can present challenges such as differing terminologies, research methodologies, and expectations. Navigating these differences requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from other disciplines. Successful multidisciplinary teamwork often leads to innovative solutions, but it also demands effective project management and regular coordination to ensure all team members are aligned toward shared goals.

What jobs can you do as a scientist?

Scientists work in various fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and data analysis. They conduct research, perform experiments, analyze data, and develop new technologies or solutions. Many scientists work in laboratories, research institutions, government agencies, or private industry, often requiring specialized skills and advanced degrees.
More about Scientist jobs
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Scientist jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Scientist job openings:
Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scientist job openings in Decatur, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,372 per year, or $48.3 per hour.
MEDICAL LAB SCIENTIST II - IP LAB TECH

MEDICAL LAB SCIENTIST II - IP LAB TECH

Memorial Health

Kenney, IL • On-site

$48.83/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Memorial Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 170 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 872 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Min
USD $31.51/Hr.
Max
USD $48.83/Hr.
Overview
Performs careful and accurate scientific work in multiple laboratory departments for a wide variety of laboratory procedures on specimens from patients of all ages, using both manual and automated methods. Demonstrates independent judgment and technical interpretation of test results and potential exceptions in the testing process. Serves as a technical resource for Level I Medical Laboratory Scientists and other laboratory staff. Performs routine corrective maintenance and troubleshooting for highly sophisticated instrumentation utilized within the laboratory.
Qualifications
Education:
• Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or equivalent required.
Licensure/Certification/Registry:
• Medical Lab Scientist (ASCP) registration or equivalent certification required.
Experience:
• Greater than one year experience as a medical laboratory scientist working in a high volume - high complexity laboratory required.
• Proven experience in interpretation and evaluation of laboratory testing, including problem resolution as well as clinical application.
Other Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
• Effective trouble shooting skills for both ongoing instrumentation maintenance and troubleshooting functions to assure effective equipment performance.
• Light to moderate physical effort.
Responsibilities
  1. Performs various laboratory tests, evaluates data, correlate results with pathologic and physiologic states and patient therapy to determine validity and reasonableness of data.
  1. Evaluate and calculates quality control statistics to assess accuracy, reproducibility and validity of laboratory methods.
  1. Performs analytical and decision-making functions without direct supervision, recognizes unexpected results, and take necessary corrective action
  1. Provides technical and analytic interpretive skills for Medical Laboratory Scientist I and supports educational activities for the Medical Laboratory Scientist I and peers in these skills.
  1. Integrates and relates laboratory data generated by various sections in making judgments regarding possible discrepancies.
  1. Assists in the preparation and presentation of teaching materials for the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology.
  1. Performs preventative and most corrective maintenance and repairs on sophisticated and often computerized laboratory equipment. Calibrates laboratory instruments to assure accuracy.
  1. Participates in the collection of specimens and samples from patients.
  1. Demonstrates knowledge and theory behind instrumentation. Diagnoses laboratory instrument malfunctions, and decides when back-up methods must be initiated. Operates all instrumentation in assigned areas and performs all technical procedures.
  1. May be asked to assist with evaluation and/or development of new test procedures, monitors them for unexpected problems or sources of error.
  1. May be asked to assist in researching, reviewing and writing of technical procedures.
  1. Collects and controls laboratory specimens.
  1. Assures the quality and timeliness of patient results by assisting with investigation of any problems involving specimen collection, results reporting and turn-around times.
  1. Recognizes unexpected results, errors and problems with patient test. Identifies the technical, instrument or physiologic cause, such as patient variable or interfering substances.
  1. Maintains and communicates department records of tests performed, test results and equipment maintenance.
  1. Maintains 12 hours of continuing education per year, and cross-training in a minimum of two diverse technical areas.
  1. Must be capable of performing in a variety of laboratory divisions.
  1. Maintains confidentiality of information regarding all patient testing/results as detailed in hospital policies.
  1. Conserves hospital resources by using equipment and supplies as needed to perform job duties .
  1. Assure compliance with all local, state, federal and national regulatory agencies and organizations.
  1. Contributes to effective customer relations by assisting patients, visitors, physicians to resolve expressed concerns and by demonstrating a welcoming and helpful attitude.
  1. Ensures that professional and personal activities conform to Memorial Medical Center's Strategic plan and Mission, Vision, and Values.
  1. Performs other related work as required or requested.

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. Incumbents may be requested to perform tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

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