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Technical Research Associate Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

Pilot Plant Supervisor

Geneva, IL · On-site

$82K - $95K/yr

As the R&D Pilot Plant Supervisor, you will be responsible for the day to day operations of our ... High School Diploma or Associate Degree with minimum 5 years of industrial food or ingredient ...

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Technical Research Associate information

See DeKalb, IL salary details

$10

$24

$56

How much do technical research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for technical research associate in DeKalb, IL is $24.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.17 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a technical research associate do?

A Technical Research Associate supports research projects by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and assisting with the development and implementation of technical methodologies. They often work alongside scientists or engineers to collect and interpret data, prepare reports, and ensure that research protocols are followed accurately. Their responsibilities may also include maintaining laboratory equipment, organizing research materials, and staying current with advancements in their field. Technical Research Associates play a critical role in advancing knowledge and innovation within industries such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, engineering, or academia.

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

To thrive as a Technical Research Associate, you typically need a solid background in a relevant scientific or engineering field, strong analytical skills, and a bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, statistical analysis software, and technical documentation tools is often required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure precise data collection, accurate reporting, and effective collaboration within research teams.

What are some typical challenges technical research associates face when supporting multiple research projects simultaneously?

Technical Research Associates often juggle several research projects at once, which requires strong organizational and time management skills. Balancing competing deadlines, maintaining accurate records, and adapting quickly to shifting project priorities can be challenging. Effective communication with principal investigators and team members is essential to ensure that tasks are completed efficiently and research objectives are met. Staying current with new technologies and protocols also helps in troubleshooting issues that may arise during experiments.

What is the difference between Technical Research Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectTechnical Research AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Science/Engineering, research experienceAssociate's degree or diploma, technical training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic or corporate settingsLaboratories, clinical or industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, pharma, academiaHospitals, research labs, manufacturing plants
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, career pathsTechnical lab work, job responsibilities

The Technical Research Associate typically holds a higher level of education and is involved in designing and conducting research projects, often in academic or corporate research settings. Laboratory Technicians focus on performing routine tests and maintaining lab equipment. Both roles require technical skills, but the Research Associate usually engages in more complex research activities, making this comparison relevant for those exploring research career options.

Do I need a PhD to be a technical research associate?

A PhD is not always required to become a technical research associate, but it can be preferred for roles involving advanced research or specialized knowledge. Typically, a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field, along with strong analytical skills and experience with research tools, suffices for many positions.

Is a technical research associate a good career?

A technical research associate role is considered a good career for individuals interested in scientific investigation, data analysis, and technology. It often requires strong analytical skills, familiarity with research tools, and relevant technical knowledge, offering opportunities for professional growth in research institutions or industry labs.

What job categories do people searching Technical Research Associate jobs in DeKalb, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Technical Research Associate jobs in DeKalb, IL are:

What cities near DeKalb, IL are hiring for Technical Research Associate jobs?

Cities near DeKalb, IL with the most Technical Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Technical Research Associate job openings in DeKalb, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,412 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Principal Physics Consultant - AI Training

micro1 AI

Elgin, IL • Remote

$80 - $160/hr

Part-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Role Title: Physics Expert (Professor / Principal Investigator)


Role Type: Contractor.


Location: Remote


micro1 is engaging Physics Experts—established Professors or Principal Investigators—to provide high-level domain guidance as part of an impactful project for a customer. In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will shape how models learn, reason, and perform through high-quality, real-world input. No prior experience in AI is required — your domain knowledge is what matters.


Scope of Work

  1. Adjudicate and render expert judgment on contested or competing physics arguments, solutions, or interpretations within your subfield.
  2. Compare alternative approaches to the same problem, detailing which is superior, under what assumptions, and in which regimes.
  3. Identify and articulate meta-level criteria for evaluating the robustness and validity of competing physics work, such as key assumptions and breaking points of approximations.
  4. Exercise calibrated confidence by providing authoritative assessments while transparently acknowledging genuine uncertainty or open questions in the field.
  5. Draft defensible written evaluations suitable for review by fellow senior physicists, ensuring clarity and rigor.
  6. Leverage technical tools such as LaTeX, SymPy, Python, and Jupyter to verify or contrast technical claims as needed.
  7. Clearly communicate when a question is unresolved within the field and delineate the pertinent considerations.


Preferred Qualifications

  1. PhD in physics with demonstrated expertise and scholarly impact in your specified subfield.
  2. Current or former Associate Professor, Full Professor, Chair Professor, or Principal Investigator/Group Leader with a track record of independent research leadership.
  3. Ongoing research activity in one or more of these areas: High Energy Physics, Mathematical Physics, Biophysics, Statistical Physics, Condensed Matter, AMO/Quantum Optics, Gravitation, Cosmology, Astrophysics, Quantum Information, or Optical Properties of Materials.
  4. 3–5 recent representative publications in your target subfield, with arXiv or DOI references.
  5. Prior experience supervising PhD students or postdocs, or equivalent leadership in industry research settings.
  6. Proficiency with LaTeX, SymPy, Python, and Jupyter (please indicate any gaps in experience with these tools).
  7. Exceptional written communication skills, with the ability to articulate nuanced and well-reasoned judgments.