LABORATORY ASSOCIATE I (UMP)
Springfield, IL, US, 62702
Job Requisition ID: 56353
Opening Date: 05/26/2026
Closing Date: 06/09/2026
Agency: Environmental Protection Agency
Class Title: LABORATORY ASSOCIATE I - 22997
Skill Option: None
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary (Effective 7/1/26) $4,407 a month; Full Range $4,407 - $5,879 monthly.
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time
County: Sangamon
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: RC028 Paraprofessional Human Services Employees, AFSCME
Merit Comp Code:
This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.
All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.
Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.
Posting Identification Number 56353
Please upload a copy of your official/unofficial transcripts for all degrees earned,
and a copy of any applicable professional licenses you possess to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application.
Note: The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency must verify and have proof of higher education and coursework (if applicable) for any degree earned before any offer can be extended.
*Answer all questions thoroughly*
Why Work for Illinois?
Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.
No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.
Position Overview
The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Division of Laboratories, Inorganic Analysis Unit, at the Springfield Combined Laboratory is seeking a dedicated Laboratory Associate I. We are looking for an individual who is highly organized, detail‑oriented, and able to adapt to shifting priorities in a collaborative, fast‑paced laboratory setting. The candidate would be comfortable performing lab techniques and working with hazardous chemicals. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong communication skills—verbal, written, and electronic—and will work effectively with both internal team members and external stakeholders.
The benefits of working at the EPA include a 37 ½ hour work week, a generous salary and benefits package (paid time off for vacation, sick or personal leave, holidays) pension and other retirement benefits, tuition reimbursement, and insurance eligibility on day one (medical, dental, vision, and life). We invite all qualified candidates to apply.
Essential Functions
- Prepares environmental extracts/digestions from soil, water, wastes, and fish tissue samples in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and established laboratory Quality Control (QC) procedures utilizing several different techniques, including but not limited to, acid digest, liquid-liquid, solid phase and accelerated solvent extractor.
- Prepares environmental samples for analyses involving a variety of analytical techniques in accordance with SOPs, and QC directives for detection of analytes of concern in trace concentrations.
- As directed follows new testing procedures for the analyses of environmental samples.
- Conducts maintenance and calibration of equipment including meters and probes utilized for analyses.
- Performs other duties as required or assigned, which are reasonably within the scope of duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
- Requires education and experience equivalent to an Associate degree with courses in the laboratory sciences.
- Qualifying state employees in the Upward Mobility Program shall have the stated requirements of this classification waived by successful completion of specific proficiency tests and training programs.
Preferred Qualifications (In order of Significance)
- Prefers elementary knowledge of the principles and practices of chemistry, biology, physics, or related sciences.
- Prefers elementary knowledge of laboratory procedures and techniques.
- Prefers ability to use laboratory equipment safely in performing routine and standard laboratory tests.
Conditions of Employment
- Overtime is a condition of employment, and you may be requested or required/mandated to work overtime including scheduled, unscheduled, or last-minute overtime. This requires the ability to work evenings and weekends.
- Requires the ability to pass a name-based background check.
Work Hours: 8:30AM - 5:00PM Monday to Friday 1 hr lunch
Headquarter Location: 825 N Rutledge St, Springfield, Illinois, 62702
Work County: Sangamon
Agency Contact: Joe Mercier
Email: Joseph.Mercier@Illinois.gov
Phone #:217-785-2361
Job Family: Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
This title is within the Upward Mobility Program. General Program information can be found by clicking on the Upward Mobility Program link or for specific title information at UMP Title Descriptions. There are three categories of UMP titles: 1) certificate titles which require passing a written proficiency exam; 2) credential titles which require the possession of a specified college degree and/or licensure; and 3) dual titles for which a certificate may be earned by following either the certificate or credential pathway.
This position DOES NOT contain “Specialized Skills” (as that term is used in CBAs).
The IEPA does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status). To be considered for permanent IEPA employment, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
Agency Statement: The mission of the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) is to safeguard environmental quality, consistent with the social and economic needs of the State of Illinois, so as to protect health, welfare, property, and the quality of life. IEPA works to safeguard the states natural resources from pollution to provide a healthy environment for its citizens. By partnering with businesses, local governments, and citizens, IEPA is dedicated to continued protection of the air we breathe and our water and land resources.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Use the “Apply” button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.
If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so.
State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees – a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.
Non-State employees should log in on the using the “View Profile” link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.
If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:
State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid
Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com – click “Application Procedures” in the footer of every page of the website.
The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your “junk mail”, “spam”, or “other” folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:
- donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
- systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
Nearest Major Market: Springfield