Location: Chicago, Illinois

Business Unit: Rush Medical Center

Hospital: Rush University Medical Center

Department: Microbial Pathogens & Immunity

Work Type: Full Time (Total FTE between 0. 9 and 1. 0)

Shift: Shift 1

Work Schedule: 8 Hr (9:00:00 AM - 5:00:00 PM)

Rush offers exceptional rewards and benefits learn more at our Rush benefits page (https://www.rush.edu/rush-careers/employee-benefits).

Pay Range: $17.63 - $24.91 per hour
Rush salaries are determined by many factors including, but not limited to, education, job-related experience and skills, as well as internal equity and industry specific market data. The pay range for each role reflects Rush’s anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position. Offers may vary depending on the circumstances of each case.

Summary:
Job Summary:
A Lab Research Technician is a technical specialist who supports laboratory operations through hands-on execution of established procedures, equipment operation, specimen handling, and compliance with safety and quality standards. The role emphasizes technical accuracy, consistency, and operational reliability, with limited responsibility for research interpretation or study design.
The Lab Research Technician 1 (LAB RT1) supports laboratory operations by preparing samples, maintaining equipment, and performing basic scientific procedures under close supervision. This entry-level role provides hands-on learning opportunities while contributing to day-to-day lab activities such as reagent preparation, documentation, and data entry. The LAB RT1 works as part of a research team and builds foundational skills necessary for more advanced technical work.
Exemplifies the Rush mission, vision and values and acts in accordance with Rush policies and procedures.

Other information:
Required Job Qualifications:
Education: High School diploma or equivalent
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
•Knowledge of basic laboratory techniques and scientific terminology
•Familiarity with laboratory equipment and sample handling practices
•Understanding of safety protocols and PPE use in laboratory settings
•Attention to detail in labeling, cleaning, and inventory support
•Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
•Skill in organizing tasks and supporting laboratory workflows
•Effective communication with peers and supervisors
•Ability to learn laboratory procedures, tools, and documentation systems
•Dependability in completing assigned tasks and maintaining confidentiality
Preferred Job Qualifications:
Education: Associate's degree in basic science with applied laboratory coursework
Physical Demands:
•Requires use of fine motor skills for laboratory tasks such as pipetting, specimen handling, equipment operation, labeling, and data entry
•Requires visual acuity and manual dexterity to accurately operate laboratory instruments, read measurements, and document information
•Frequently stands or walks while performing laboratory procedures and moving between workstations
•Occasionally lifts, carries, or moves laboratory supplies or equipment weighing up to 25 lbs
•Must safely work in laboratory environments involving chemicals, biological specimens, temperature-controlled equipment, or mechanical devices while following established safety protocols and wearing required personal protective equipment
Competencies:
Disclaimer: The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.

Responsibilities:
Job Responsibilities:
•Under supervision, collect and prepare biological samples for processing following established protocols. Label, store, and log samples according to established protocols. Assist senior staff in maintaining sample integrity.
•Prepare basic laboratory equipment for routine use following establishing protocols. Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, calibration checks, and restocking supplies. Alert senior staff to equipment malfunctions or maintenance needs.
•Conduct basic laboratory techniques and procedures following established protocols. Prepare solutions, buffers, and media.
•Operate basic laboratory equipment. Monitor equipment during procedures and record observations/results.
•Record raw data accurately into laboratory notebook or digital equivalent. Perform basic calculations and data entry. Assist in data validation.
•Follow institutional policies for biosafety, chemical safety, and radiation safety. Wear appropriate PPE. Follow institutional waste disposal procedures. Report spills, exposures, and injuries promptly.
•Maintain organized laboratory notebook or digital equivalent. Submit data and observations to senior staff for review.
•Assist in preparing data summaries. Assist in troubleshooting errors.
•Complete required lab specific training.
•Perform other related duties as assigned to support daily research operations.

Rush is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.