Lab Assistant I

Job Title: Lab Assistant I Job Description
The Lab Assistant I works in a high-volume, production-based clinical laboratory environment and performs essential tasks that support diagnostic testing and clinical lab science. This role is an excellent opportunity for individuals with little or no prior laboratory experience or formal lab education who are eager to start a career in diagnostics and learn on the job.
Responsibilities

• Receive and sort clinical laboratory specimens accurately and efficiently.
• Prepare specimens for testing and analysis according to established procedures.
• Scan and enter specimen and patient information into laboratory information systems with a high level of accuracy.
• Verify that laboratory equipment is functioning properly and perform minor instrumentation maintenance as needed.
• Troubleshoot specimen-related issues and escalate concerns when appropriate.
• Replenish test bench supplies to ensure continuous workflow and minimal downtime.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in compliance with laboratory safety standards.
• Complete record logs and other administrative duties as requested.
• Follow all Standard Operating Procedures to ensure safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.
• Handle biological specimens, including blood, tissue, and kidney stones, in a safe and professional manner.
• Prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities to meet established turnaround times in a fast-paced environment.
• Communicate effectively with team members and other departments using clear written and verbal communication.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Comfortable handling biological specimens, including blood, tissue, and kidney stones.
• Ability to accurately identify and label specimens.
• Basic computer skills and strong data entry abilities.
• High level of attention to detail with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to prioritize work and multitask in a fast-paced production environment.
• Capability to meet established turnaround times consistently.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to sit and/or stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to pass a standardized color blindness test.
• Flexibility to work overtime as needed.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous medical, laboratory, or production experience is preferred but not required.
• Experience in data entry and processing in a high-volume environment is beneficial.
• Demonstrated comfort working in a fast-paced laboratory setting.
• Strong computer and data entry skills that support accurate and efficient processing of information.
• Interest in developing a career in diagnostics and clinical laboratory science.

Work Environment
This position is based onsite in a clinical laboratory setting within a production-focused lab department. The schedule typically includes Monday 10:30 AM-7:00 PM, Tuesday off, Wednesday through Friday 10:30 AM-7:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM-5:30 PM, and Sunday off, with flexibility to work overtime as needed. The environment involves working at test benches and computer workstations, handling biological specimens such as blood, tissue, and kidney stones, and using laboratory equipment and instruments that require routine checks and minor maintenance. The lab operates at a high volume and fast pace, with a strong emphasis on safety, cleanliness, and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures. Employees should be prepared for extended periods of sitting and standing and for working closely with a team in a structured, production-based clinical setting.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Itasca, IL.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $18.50 - $18.50/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)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Itasca,IL.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Sep 4, 2026.
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.


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