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State Crime Lab Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician

Campus, IL

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

  • Retirement

This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug ... Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race ...

Lab Technician

Campus, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

  • Retirement

This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug ... Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race ...

Lab Technician

Campus, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

  • Retirement

This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug ... Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race ...

Lab Technician A

Chicago Heights, IL

$28.83/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Lab Technician "A" is responsible for performing all analytical testing required for the ... with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law. Innophos is ...

Lab Technician A

Chicago Heights, IL · On-site

$28.83/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Lab Technician "A" is responsible for performing all analytical testing required for the ... with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law. Innophos is ...

Showing results 21-40

State Crime Lab information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$24

$43

How much do state crime lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for state crime lab in Illinois is $24.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.65 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between State Crime Lab vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectState Crime LabForensic Scientist
CredentialsRelevant degrees in forensic science, chemistry, biologySimilar degrees, often with specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, law enforcement collaborationLaboratories, crime scenes, courtrooms
Employer & IndustryState government, law enforcement agenciesGovernment labs, private labs, law enforcement
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles in forensic analysisRelated but broader forensic roles

While a State Crime Lab is a facility that employs forensic scientists, the term 'Forensic Scientist' refers to the professionals working within these labs. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, and they operate in comparable environments. The main difference is that the State Crime Lab is the institution, whereas the forensic scientist is the individual performing analysis and investigations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a State Crime Lab analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a State Crime Lab Analyst, you need a solid background in forensic science, chemistry, or biology, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), analytical instrumentation like GC-MS or DNA sequencers, and sometimes certifications such as the American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) are typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication are crucial soft skills for handling evidence and presenting findings. These skills ensure accurate analyses, reliable testimony, and the integrity of criminal investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working at a State Crime Lab, and how can they prepare for them?

Professionals at a State Crime Lab often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, working under strict deadlines, and ensuring the accuracy and integrity of forensic evidence. Additionally, they must stay current with evolving scientific techniques and legal standards. To prepare, candidates should develop strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team. Regular training and continuing education are also important to maintain competency and adapt to new methodologies.

What qualifications do I need to work in a state crime lab?

To work in a state crime lab, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and familiarity with scientific tools; some positions may require certification or advanced degrees for specialized roles.

How to get a job in a State Crime Lab?

To work in a State Crime Lab, candidates typically need a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and knowledge of forensic tools and procedures; some positions may require certification or experience in criminal justice or law enforcement environments.

What is a State Crime Lab?

A State Crime Lab is a government-operated laboratory that analyzes evidence from criminal investigations. These labs employ forensic scientists and technicians who perform tests on physical evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, drugs, firearms, and toxicology samples. Their analyses help law enforcement agencies and the courts solve crimes, identify suspects, and support criminal prosecutions. State Crime Labs often work closely with police departments, attorneys, and other agencies to ensure accurate and timely results.

What are popular job titles related to State Crime Lab jobs in Illinois?

For State Crime Lab jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching State Crime Lab jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for State Crime Lab jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for State Crime Lab jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most State Crime Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various State Crime Lab job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,890 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Clinical Lab Assistant II Lab Microbiology-Full-time Nights

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare

Winfield, IL • On-site

Other

Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


Northwestern Medicine rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 390 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Company Description
At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better health care, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. We pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, our goal is to take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?
Job Description
This is a full-time, 40 hours per week, 3rd shift position located in the Lab Microbiology department at Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield.
The CLA II reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization's Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.
Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with the main lab staff, other ancillary departments, departments, nurses and providers to ensure excellent patient care.
  • Receives specimens into the laboratory information system.
  • Inputs and retrieves lab results in laboratory or hospital computer system.
  • Register specimen dropoffs (e.g. Home health) in LIS assuring accurate data entry.
  • Properly processes specimens for transport to reference laboratories.
  • Distributes specimens to the appropriate testing area.
  • Identifies and solves problems utilizing appropriate resources with the assistance of a supervisor, manager, pathologist and/or coworkers when appropriate.
  • Verifies the accuracy of all instruments and test kits; responsible for quality control, maintenance, troubleshoots
  • Operate and maintain laboratory automation systems as appropriate.
  • Performs diagnostic/analytic testing of specimens, interprets, documents and report results to provider.
  • Accurately performs waived and/or moderate complexity testing under the direction of CLS
  • Ensures appropriate testing is ordered and properly identifies the correct reference laboratory for referred specimens
  • Communicates specimen rejections, critical/notifiable results to appropriate clinical personnel and completes required documentation.
  • May review/record refrigerator temperature(s) and QC/QA records. Areas of concern are recorded through the Corrective Action Log and reported to maintenance for repair.
  • Adheres to lab procedures with following up on outstanding orders including time-sensitive draws/charges
  • Answers phone calls to the laboratory and triages appropriate
  • Coordinates courier pickups as needed.
Department Specific duties
  • Performs phlebotomy and other lab specimen collections per age related standards as required.
  • Completes biological transport training as required and maintain competency.
  • Recognizes temperature dependent transport conditions and select correct packing list destination.
  • Monitors and maintains specialty supplies, including kits, swab and collection containers and disperse to units
  • Ensures supplies are available and stored at the appropriate temperatures
  • Performs microbiology setups or other testing preparation duties.
  • May assist with bone marrow and other biopsy processing.
  • Pull AP slides for second opinion requests and log material back into Epic when material is returned.
Qualifications
Required:
  • High School Diploma
  • Minimum of 1 year of work experience in a general lab, specimen processing or phlebotomy area or enrolled in lab related education program.
Preferred:
  • Phlebotomy Certification or training from an accredited School or Institution

Additional Information
Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.
Background Check
Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check. Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.
Artificial Intelligence Disclosure
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.
Benefits
We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.
Sign-on Bonus Eligibility (if sign-on bonus offered for position): Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family.

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