Lab Technician
The Laboratory Technician role supports R&D activities by performing hands-on wet lab work including experiments, sample preparation, and data documentation under scientist supervision. This contract position involves maintaining laboratory equipment and safety, contributing to team projects in a collaborative, onsite lab environment focused on consumer-oriented markets.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Scientific & QA.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position Overview
This is a temporary, contract Laboratory Technician role supporting R&D bench work for a confidential client in the Scientific & QA industry. You will perform hands-on wet-lab tasks under scientist/engineer supervision: set up experiments, prepare reagents and samples, run basic analytical tests, and record results. This position is a strong fit for recent graduates or early-career candidates seeking practical experience with glassware, wet chemistry, and analytical techniques.
What You’ll Do
- Assist R&D scientists and engineers with laboratory experiments and testing following established protocols
- Set up, organize, and clean laboratory glassware, instruments, and equipment before and after experiments
- Prepare and handle raw materials and finished-product samples for testing and analysis
- Perform basic laboratory testing and measurements using wet-lab and analytical chemistry techniques
- Collect, record, and organize experimental data accurately and in a timely manner
- Document test results, observations, and any deviations in lab notebooks or electronic systems
- Prepare materials, reagents, and equipment needed for upcoming experiments to ensure efficiency
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory workspace at all times
- Follow laboratory procedures, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and safety guidelines
- Support general R&D projects and lab activities to meet team goals and timelines
Essential Skills
- Hands-on wet-lab chemistry experience, including routine glassware use and basic bench techniques
- Scientific bachelor’s degree recommended (Chemistry preferred) or equivalent lab experience
- Foundational knowledge of chemistry and analytical chemistry principles
- Ability to perform basic testing, measurements, and sample preparation with attention to detail
- Competence in collecting, recording, and organizing experimental data accurately
- Ability to follow written procedures, protocols, and safety guidelines consistently
- Reliable, responsible, and committed to completing assigned tasks
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative laboratory team
Additional Skills & Qualifications (Nice-to-Have)
- Experience with bench-scale operations such as distillation and purification
- Exposure to analytical chemistry methods and instrumentation (coursework or prior lab roles)
- Laboratory experience from academic programs, internships, or prior employment
- Interest in R&D work for personal care, food, pharma, or consumer goods applications
- Quick learner for new laboratory techniques and instruments with appropriate training
- Good organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks in a busy lab
- Clear communication skills for sharing results with scientists and engineers
- Team-oriented mindset and willingness to support colleagues
Work Environment & Schedule
This role is fully onsite in an R&D laboratory environment. You will work hands-on at the bench with wet chemistry, glassware, and analytical methods under supervision. The laboratory culture emphasizes collaboration and support; technicians work closely together to meet project needs. Typical scheduled hours are primarily 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with flexibility required to provide coverage between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. as projects demand. Standard lab safety procedures and personal protective equipment are required.
Compensation & Benefits
- Pay range: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour (range disclosed by client)
- Actual pay offered will depend on qualifications, experience, location, and other factors
- If eligible, temporary-role benefits may include: medical, dental & vision; critical illness/accident/hospital plans; 401(k) retirement plan; voluntary life & AD&D; short- and long-term disability; HSA; transportation benefits; Employee Assistance Program; and applicable time off policies.
Job Type & Location
- Job type: Contract (classification may include FULL_TIME / CONTRACTOR)
- Workplace: Fully onsite
- Location: Gurnee, IL
- Application deadline (anticipated): Nov 2, 2026
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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