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Summer Lab Intern Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

R&D Engineering Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

... lab in Fulton Market Chicago Education and Experience ● Pursuing a degree in BME, MechE, MatSci ... Summer/Fall 2025 positions How to Apply: ● Interested candidates should submit a resume to ...

Summer Lab Intern information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$17

$25

How much do summer lab intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer lab intern in Chicago, IL is $17.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a summer lab intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Summer Lab Intern, you can expect to participate in a variety of hands-on projects that support ongoing research within the lab. Your daily tasks may include preparing samples, conducting experiments under supervision, collecting and analyzing data, and assisting with equipment maintenance. Collaboration is key, as you’ll often work closely with graduate students, technicians, and principal investigators who will guide your learning and help you develop essential lab skills. Interns are usually encouraged to ask questions, contribute to team meetings, and may have opportunities to present their findings. This role offers a great foundation for understanding real-world research environments and can open doors for future academic or professional pursuits in science.

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

To thrive as a Summer Lab Intern, you generally need foundational knowledge in science or engineering, strong analytical skills, and enrollment in a relevant degree program. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and software tools like Excel or data analysis platforms is often required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and eagerness to learn are key soft skills that help interns stand out. These skills and qualities ensure safe, accurate experimentation, effective teamwork, and meaningful contributions to ongoing research projects.

What is a summer lab intern?

Summer Lab Interns are typically students or recent graduates who work temporarily in a laboratory setting during the summer months. They assist with scientific research, experiments, and data collection under the guidance of experienced lab staff. These internships provide hands-on experience and exposure to laboratory techniques, often helping interns decide on future career paths in science. Responsibilities can vary depending on the lab, but usually include maintaining equipment, recording observations, and supporting ongoing research projects.

What is the difference between Summer Lab Intern vs Summer Research Assistant?

AspectSummer Lab InternSummer Research Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically undergraduate student, some labs prefer coursework in relevant science fieldsUsually undergraduate or graduate students with some research experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, assisting with experiments and data collectionResearch projects, often more independent, supporting senior researchers
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech companiesUniversities, research labs, government agencies

The Summer Lab Intern role generally targets undergraduate students gaining initial research experience, focusing on assisting with lab tasks. The Summer Research Assistant position often involves more independent work and is suitable for students with some prior research background. Both roles are valuable for building research skills but differ in responsibilities and experience level.

What are the most commonly searched types of Summer Lab jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Summer Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Summer Lab Intern jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Summer Lab Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Summer Lab Intern job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Internship, 66% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $36,504 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

NCC/Fehr Solutions Summer Research Intern

North Central College

Naperville, IL

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Position Information
Federal Work Study Eligible? No Posting Number ST001042 Position Title NCC/Fehr Solutions Summer Research Intern Department CHEMISTRY Division College of Arts & Sciences Supervisor Jeffrey A. Jankowski Supervisor Title Professor of Chemistry Description of Job Duties
Develop test methods for the detection and quantitation of specific chemicals found in customer process water
Determine detection limits, limits of linearity and other quantitative parameters that define the efficacy of the method
Do the job duties for this position include any driving requirements? No Job Qualifications
Must be enrolled as a student at North Central College
1-2 years of college-level Chemistry
Good oral and written communication skills
Ability to work and think independently
Ability to think creatively to devise potential product prototypes and design experiments for their evaluation
Ability to design experiments and collect and interpret data
Ability to maintain a well-documented lab notebook
Ability to work well with and properly communicate with team members from other areas of expertise
Will this position be working with minors? No Approximate number of work hours per week 20
Posting Detail Information
EEO Statement
North Central College is an Equal Opportunity Employer. North Central College provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. If you need reasonable accommodation, please notify the Office of Human Resource. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.
Open Date 05/14/2026 Close Date Open Until Filled No