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Temporary Lab Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lab Aide

Elgin, IL · On-site

$19/hr

Record keeping (QC, Temps, Chemical usage & disposal) * Filing slides and blocks * Label cassettes ... Aide Pathologist or Lab team as needed Qualifications and Requirements * High School Diploma or GED

The Lab Assistant will work closely with engineers to prepare test setups, operate equipment ... temporary basis, those seeking to improve skills and learn new ones, and new grads entering the ...

Quality Lab Leader

La Grange, IL · On-site

$81K - $139K/yr

Summary Manage the lab facilities and associates used for qualification/verification and product ... Supervisory Responsibilities Directly supervises 3 to 5 regular and/or temporary employees. Carries ...

Quality Lab Leader

La Grange, IL

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

Summary Manage the lab facilities and associates used for qualification/verification and product ... Supervisory Responsibilities Directly supervises 3 to 5 regular and/or temporary employees. Carries ...

Quality Lab Leader

La Grange, IL · On-site

$81K - $139K/yr

Summary Manage the lab facilities and associates used for qualification/verification and product ... Supervisory Responsibilities Directly supervises 3 to 5 regular and/or temporary employees. Carries ...

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Temporary Lab information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$23

$35

How much do temporary lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary lab in Chicago, IL is $23.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Temporary Lab vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectTemporary LabLaboratory Technician
CredentialsMay require basic certifications or on-the-job trainingTypically requires an associate degree or certification in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentTemporary assignments in various labs, often short-termPermanent or long-term employment in a specific lab setting
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by staffing agencies and labs for short-term needsEmployed directly by labs or healthcare facilities
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for short-term work optionsCompared for career stability and long-term roles

Temporary Lab roles are short-term, flexible positions often filled through staffing agencies, requiring minimal credentials. Laboratory Technicians are permanent staff with specific certifications, working long-term in labs. Both roles support lab operations but differ mainly in duration, credentials, and employment type.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Lab Technician, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and a relevant degree or coursework in science. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry software, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and the ability to follow instructions precisely help you stand out in this position. These skills ensure accurate results, maintain lab safety, and support efficient research or diagnostic workflows.

What are temporary lab positions?

Temporary lab positions are short-term jobs in laboratory settings, often created to support specific projects, cover staff absences, or meet seasonal demands. These roles can include responsibilities like conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining lab equipment. Temporary lab workers may be hired for a few weeks to several months, and such positions can offer valuable experience for students, recent graduates, or professionals seeking flexible work. Temporary lab jobs are common in research institutions, universities, and private companies. They provide a good opportunity to gain hands-on experience and expand professional networks.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in temporary laboratory positions, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in temporary laboratory roles often encounter challenges like quickly adapting to new protocols and integrating into established teams. Time-limited contracts mean they must learn procedures and software rapidly to maintain productivity. Building rapport with permanent staff and seeking early clarification on expectations can ease the transition. Proactively communicating and staying organized are key strategies for success in these dynamic environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Temporary Lab jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Temporary Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Temporary Lab jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Temporary Lab job openings:
Infographic showing various Temporary Lab job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,276 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Temporary Lab Assistant

Elgin Community College

Elgin, IL • On-site

$16/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

About ECC:
Elgin Community College serves over 9,000 students at every stage of their educational journeys, including university transfer programs, career and technical education, continuing education classes, and adult basic education. As a community, we pride ourselves on nurturing a welcoming campus where every person-students, staff members, faculty members, and campus visitors-feels valued. The work of each ECC employee is central to the college's mission, and as an employer, the college fosters a positive environment through professional challenges, excellent benefits, and opportunities for recognition and camaraderie.
Work Schedule:
Varies. Based on the students' schedules.
Rate of Pay:
$16 per hour
FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt
Grant Funded:
No
Job Summary:
This temporary position performs work of moderate difficulty by ensuring equal access to educational opportunities for students with disabilities. Work is distinguished by attending the class sessions and providing assistance to students with disabilities with the physical mechanics and dexterity requirements of class activities. General supervision is provided by assigned manager
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
1. Must have previous experience and knowledge in the specified subject area.
2. Considerable skills in verbal and written communication to accurately and legibly scribe for students and accurately read for students.
3. Ability to follow multi-step directions; highly reliable.
4. Ability to express verbally what is seen in a descriptive manner.
5. Working skill in organizing work to meet established deadlines while maintaining attention to detail and accuracy.
6. Demonstrate sensitivity, understanding, and respect of diverse populations within the College.
7. Maintain confidentiality of privileged information and adhere to applicable privacy laws and ethical standards.
8. Ability to work a flexible schedule, which includes days/evenings/weekends as needed by the department.
Desired Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
N/A
Essential Duties:
1. Ensure equal access to educational opportunities for students with disabilities.
2. Aid students with disabilities with the physical mechanics and dexterity requirements of class activities (e.g., lifting, pouring, writing, typing, etc.).
3. Attend the class in which the student with a disability is enrolled. Must be available to attend the entire class session and meet with the student at other established times during the week. Lab assistants cannot be enrolled in the same course level of the students they are assisting. Lab assistants will follow directions provided by the student with a disability and will not contribute to the content of the course or be responsible for teaching the material to the student with a disability.
4. The services are individually designed and based on the specific needs of each student:
a. Read aloud academically required materials.
b. Write down information as dictated by the student.
c. Describe visual information.
d. Assist with completing in-class assignments, tests, quizzes, and other course materials on paper and on the computer as described by the student.
e. Adjust/move lab equipment, lift lab materials, pour lab materials, and perform other lab duties as described by the student.
f. Will perform only those tasks directed by the student.
g. Are used as a tool, not a teacher or tutor.
h. Will not prompt or guide a student in performing a lab/class task.
i. Must follow all class/lab safety procedures.
5. Maintain confidentiality of privileged information and adhere to applicable privacy laws and ethical standards.
6. Demonstrate sensitivity, understanding, and respect of diverse populations within the workplace.
7. Adheres to department guidelines for attendance and punctuality
Other Duties:
Adhere to department guidelines for attendance and punctuality including ability to work a flexible schedule, which includes days/evenings/weekends as needed by the department.
Physical Demands:
Medium (up to 50 lbs. occasionally or 30 lbs frequently or 10 lbs constantly)
Visual Acuity:
Close visual acuity (e.g. computer, assembly)
Work Environment:
Moderate noise
Environmental Conditions:
Typical office or administrative
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Elgin Community College does not discriminate, or tolerate discrimination, against any member of its community on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex/gender/gender identity, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local law in matters of admissions, employment, or in any aspect of the educational programs or activities it offers.
In addition, Elgin Community College provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities to ensure equal access and equal opportunities with regard to employment practices, educational opportunities, and programs and services. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify the College's EEO/AA Officer. Determinations on request for a reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.