Lab Technician

Job Title: Laboratory Technician (R&D)

Job Description

This temporary Laboratory Technician role supports day-to-day research and development activities by performing hands-on wet lab work under the guidance of scientists and engineers. You will conduct experiments, prepare materials, handle samples, and accurately document results, gaining strong exposure to laboratory techniques and instrumentation in a true R&D environment. This position is particularly well-suited for recent graduates seeking a foundational wet lab role that builds practical experience with glassware, chemistry, and analytical methods.

Responsibilities

• Assist R&D scientists and engineers with laboratory experiments and testing according to 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 in an accurate and timely manner.
• Accurately document test results, observations, and any deviations in laboratory notebooks or electronic systems.
• Prepare materials, reagents, and equipment needed for upcoming experiments to ensure readiness and efficiency.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory workspace at all times.
• Follow established laboratory procedures, standard operating procedures, and safety guidelines.
• Support general R&D projects and laboratory activities as needed, contributing to team goals and timelines.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on wet lab chemistry experience, including routine use of glassware and basic laboratory techniques.
• Scientific bachelors degree, preferably in Chemistry, with openness to other scientific disciplines that include strong laboratory and glassware experience.
• Foundational knowledge of chemistry and analytical chemistry principles.
• Ability to perform basic laboratory 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.
• Strong sense of personal responsibility, reliability, and commitment to completing assigned tasks.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative laboratory team.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with wet lab chemistry techniques such as distillation, purification, and related bench-scale operations.
• Exposure to analytical chemistry methods and instrumentation through coursework or prior lab roles.
• Laboratory experience gained through academic programs, internships, or prior employment is welcome.
• Strong interest in R&D work in areas such as personal care, food, pharma, or consumer goods applications.
• Ability to learn new laboratory techniques and instrumentation quickly with appropriate training.
• Good organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a busy laboratory setting.
• Effective communication skills for sharing results and observations with scientists and engineers.
• Team-oriented mindset, with willingness to support colleagues and contribute to a positive lab culture.

Work Environment

This role is based in a true R&D laboratory environment focused on developing tailored solutions for consumer-oriented markets such as personal care, food, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. You will work hands-on at the bench with glassware, wet chemistry techniques, and analytical methods under the guidance of experienced scientists and engineers. The culture emphasizes support, collaboration, and a strong team mindset; lab technicians work closely together, maintain friendly relationships, and support each others commitments. Music often plays in the lab, contributing to a relaxed yet focused atmosphere. Typical hours are primarily from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a need for flexibility to provide coverage between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. as required by project needs. Standard laboratory safety procedures and protective equipment apply, and you will be expected to maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace at all times.

This is a Contract position based out of Gurnee, IL.

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $30.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a Contract position based out of Gurnee, IL.

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 2, 2026.

This is a fully onsite position in Gurnee,IL.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.