What are the responsibilities and job description for the LABORATORY ASSOCIATE I (UPWARD MOBILITY) - CANNABIS TESTING position at State of Illinois?
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We continually strive for a workforce that reflects the growing diversity within the State of Illinois. A variety of employee backgrounds, perspectives, ideas and experiences are crucial to our ability to most effectively serve the public. Bilingual skills welcome
Reasonable Accommodation Statement
The State of Illinois is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. Further, federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job, interview for a job, or for any other activity related to the hiring process. Examples of reasonable accommodation include, but are not limited to, making a change to the application process (if possible), providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.
To be provided a Reasonable Accommodation during the hiring process, you will need to provide a certification of disability from a physician, psychiatrist, school official or an Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselor. Supporting documentation should be uploaded under My Documents Additional Documents section for each application.
Any questions on Reasonable Accommodations can be directed to Central Management Services Disability Resource Center at CMS.DisabilityResCen@illinois.gov or call (217) 524-7514 for further information and to request or discuss an accommodation.
Sponsorship for Employment
The State of Illinois does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status), nor is the State able to provide extensions of optional practical training (OPT) under the STEM-designated degree program for F-1 students. To be considered for permanent employment with the State of Illinois, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
Disclosure of Salary Information
In compliance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, 820 ILCS 112/1 et seq., the State does not seek, request, or require a job applicant’s wage or salary history. Employment decisions are not made based on an applicant’s wage or salary history. To that end, please do not include wage or salary information in your resume or other profile or application materials.
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Date: Jul 10, 2026
Location:
Springfield, IL, US, 62702
#job-location.job-location-inline { display: inline; }
Job Requisition ID: 53480
Job Requisition ID: 53480
Closing Date: 07/24/2026
Agency: Department of Agriculture
Class Title: LABORATORY ASSOCIATE I - 22997
Skill Option: UMP DUAL - Combination of Certificate and Credential
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary $4407: Full Range $4407- $5879 a month
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.
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 Department of Agriculture’s (IDOA) Division of Cannabis Regulation is expanding and seeks dedicated candidates for the Laboratory Associate position to support the success of this dynamic industry. IDOA oversees a wide range of licenses—including craft growers, infusers, and transporters—and regulates both adult-use and medical cannabis centers. This position directly supports the IDOA’s accredited state laboratory, which is critical to creating a safe and equitable industry. The Laboratory Associate will play a key role in laboratory operations, including traveling to cannabis facilities to securely collect and transport samples using the Seed to Sale program for chain of custody, and preparing various cannabis products for critical chemical analysis through sieving, grinding, and homogenization. The Associate will also be responsible for receiving, logging, and tracking samples using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), maintaining laboratory cleanliness and equipment, managing hazardous waste disposal, monitoring inventory, and performing safety checks, all as outlined in the essential functions of the role.
Essential Functions
Travels to cultivation centers, infusers, and other cannabis facilities to collect and transport samples securely to the Bureau of Cannabis Testing (BCT) laboratory for analysis.
Prepares plant, concentrate, infused products and other items for sub-microgram analysis of cannabis products.
Receives, logs, and tracks samples collected by BCT staff, delivered by inspectors, or other third parties using the laboratory information management system (LIMS).
Thoroughly cleans, prepares, and performs preventative maintenance of equipment and glassware for use by chemists in the analysis of cannabis products.
Dispose of samples, standards, and solutions used for chemical and microbial analysis of cannabis products and document the disposal in LIMS or similar logs.
Monitors stock of consumable items, chemicals, reagents, and other critical items in LIMS or other associated logs.
As a part of a team and according to a checklist, perform quarterly safety checks In the laboratory, including verifying dates of service for equipment, ensuring the functionality of safety equipment, and expiry dates of equipment such as fire extinguishers and first aid supplies.
Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
Requires education and experience equivalent to an associate's 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
Prefers elementary knowledge of the principles and practices of chemistry, biology, physics and related sciences.
Prefers elementary knowledge of laboratory procedures and techniques.
Prefers experience using laboratory equipment safely in performing routine and standard laboratory tests.
Prefers experience handling test items in a manner that ensures proper chain-of-custody and inventory management.
Prefers experience using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
Prefers experience using an electronic inventory management system and conducting audits of inventory items.
Prefers experience using excel to perform calculations and descriptive statistics on scientific data.
Conditions of Employment
Requires completion of a name-based background screening and self-disclosure of criminal history.
Requires ability to travel in the performance of duties. Requires appropriate, valid driver’s license.
The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.
Work Hours: 8:00am - 4:30pm Monday - Friday
Headquarter Location: 801 E Sangamon Ave, Springfield, Illinois, 62702
Work County: Sangamon
Agency Contact: Bureau of Human Resources
Email: AGR.Human Resources@illinois.gov
Phone #: 217-785-5099
Posting Group: Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
The Illinois Department of Agriculture administers an annual budget of approximately $200 million and employs more than 400 people statewide, with several hundred more seasonal employees hired during the summer to support the Illinois State Fair and Du Quoin State Fair. Separate bureaus administer programs and services directed at conserving the State's land and water resources; protecting the health and welfare of livestock and companion animals; overseeing state and county fairs; regulating seed, feed, and fertilizer products; ensuring the financial stability of grain dealers and warehouses; promoting Illinois food and agricultural products; and operating the State's horse racing programs.
AGR values employees with different backgrounds, life experiences, and talents.
AGR offers a robust benefit package including;
Monday-Friday work schedule
Flexible work schedules in many program areas
Health, life, vision, and dental insurance
12 Weeks paid maternity/paternity leave
Pension Plan
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
Deferred Compensation, and other pre-tax benefit programs
Employees earn twelve (12) paid sick days annually
Ten to twenty-five (10-25) paid vacation days based on years of service
Employees earn three (3) paid personal days pro-rated based on start date
Thirteen - Fourteen (13-14) paid state holidays annually
For more information regarding State of Illinois Benefits follow this link: https://www2.illinois.gov/cms/benefits/Pages/default.aspx
If this opportunity appeals to you, please apply today!
This title is within the Upward Mobility Program (UMP). General Program information can be found by clicking on the Upward Mobility Program link or for specific title information at UMP Titles. To utilize upward mobility contractual rights for this position, employees must apply internally and must upload a copy of the UMP grade notice to their application documents prior to submission. UMP grades can be uploaded to the Additional Documents OR Grade Documentation section of the application.
This position DOES NOT contain “Specialized Skills” (as that term is used in CBAs).
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
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
We continually strive for a workforce that reflects the growing diversity within the State of Illinois. A variety of employee backgrounds, perspectives, ideas and experiences are crucial to our ability to most effectively serve the public. Bilingual skills welcome
Reasonable Accommodation Statement
The State of Illinois is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. Further, federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job, interview for a job, or for any other activity related to the hiring process. Examples of reasonable accommodation include, but are not limited to, making a change to the application process (if possible), providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.
To be provided a Reasonable Accommodation during the hiring process, you will need to provide a certification of disability from a physician, psychiatrist, school official or an Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselor. Supporting documentation should be uploaded under My Documents Additional Documents section for each application.
Any questions on Reasonable Accommodations can be directed to Central Management Services Disability Resource Center at CMS.DisabilityResCen@illinois.gov or call (217) 524-7514 for further information and to request or discuss an accommodation.
Sponsorship for Employment
The State of Illinois does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status), nor is the State able to provide extensions of optional practical training (OPT) under the STEM-designated degree program for F-1 students. To be considered for permanent employment with the State of Illinois, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
Disclosure of Salary Information
In compliance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, 820 ILCS 112/1 et seq., the State does not seek, request, or require a job applicant’s wage or salary history. Employment decisions are not made based on an applicant’s wage or salary history. To that end, please do not include wage or salary information in your resume or other profile or application materials.
.buttontext1994038eb7b1eb4e a{ border: 1px solid transparent; } .buttontext1994038eb7b1eb4e a: focus{ border: 1px dashed #000000 !important; outline: none !important; }
Date: Jul 10, 2026
Location:
Springfield, IL, US, 62702
#job-location.job-location-inline { display: inline; }
Job Requisition ID: 53480
Job Requisition ID: 53480
Closing Date: 07/24/2026
Agency: Department of Agriculture
Class Title: LABORATORY ASSOCIATE I - 22997
Skill Option: UMP DUAL - Combination of Certificate and Credential
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary $4407: Full Range $4407- $5879 a month
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.
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 Department of Agriculture’s (IDOA) Division of Cannabis Regulation is expanding and seeks dedicated candidates for the Laboratory Associate position to support the success of this dynamic industry. IDOA oversees a wide range of licenses—including craft growers, infusers, and transporters—and regulates both adult-use and medical cannabis centers. This position directly supports the IDOA’s accredited state laboratory, which is critical to creating a safe and equitable industry. The Laboratory Associate will play a key role in laboratory operations, including traveling to cannabis facilities to securely collect and transport samples using the Seed to Sale program for chain of custody, and preparing various cannabis products for critical chemical analysis through sieving, grinding, and homogenization. The Associate will also be responsible for receiving, logging, and tracking samples using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), maintaining laboratory cleanliness and equipment, managing hazardous waste disposal, monitoring inventory, and performing safety checks, all as outlined in the essential functions of the role.
Essential Functions
Travels to cultivation centers, infusers, and other cannabis facilities to collect and transport samples securely to the Bureau of Cannabis Testing (BCT) laboratory for analysis.
Prepares plant, concentrate, infused products and other items for sub-microgram analysis of cannabis products.
Receives, logs, and tracks samples collected by BCT staff, delivered by inspectors, or other third parties using the laboratory information management system (LIMS).
Thoroughly cleans, prepares, and performs preventative maintenance of equipment and glassware for use by chemists in the analysis of cannabis products.
Dispose of samples, standards, and solutions used for chemical and microbial analysis of cannabis products and document the disposal in LIMS or similar logs.
Monitors stock of consumable items, chemicals, reagents, and other critical items in LIMS or other associated logs.
As a part of a team and according to a checklist, perform quarterly safety checks In the laboratory, including verifying dates of service for equipment, ensuring the functionality of safety equipment, and expiry dates of equipment such as fire extinguishers and first aid supplies.
Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
Requires education and experience equivalent to an associate's 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
Prefers elementary knowledge of the principles and practices of chemistry, biology, physics and related sciences.
Prefers elementary knowledge of laboratory procedures and techniques.
Prefers experience using laboratory equipment safely in performing routine and standard laboratory tests.
Prefers experience handling test items in a manner that ensures proper chain-of-custody and inventory management.
Prefers experience using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
Prefers experience using an electronic inventory management system and conducting audits of inventory items.
Prefers experience using excel to perform calculations and descriptive statistics on scientific data.
Conditions of Employment
Requires completion of a name-based background screening and self-disclosure of criminal history.
Requires ability to travel in the performance of duties. Requires appropriate, valid driver’s license.
The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.
Work Hours: 8:00am - 4:30pm Monday - Friday
Headquarter Location: 801 E Sangamon Ave, Springfield, Illinois, 62702
Work County: Sangamon
Agency Contact: Bureau of Human Resources
Email: AGR.Human Resources@illinois.gov
Phone #: 217-785-5099
Posting Group: Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
The Illinois Department of Agriculture administers an annual budget of approximately $200 million and employs more than 400 people statewide, with several hundred more seasonal employees hired during the summer to support the Illinois State Fair and Du Quoin State Fair. Separate bureaus administer programs and services directed at conserving the State's land and water resources; protecting the health and welfare of livestock and companion animals; overseeing state and county fairs; regulating seed, feed, and fertilizer products; ensuring the financial stability of grain dealers and warehouses; promoting Illinois food and agricultural products; and operating the State's horse racing programs.
AGR values employees with different backgrounds, life experiences, and talents.
AGR offers a robust benefit package including;
Monday-Friday work schedule
Flexible work schedules in many program areas
Health, life, vision, and dental insurance
12 Weeks paid maternity/paternity leave
Pension Plan
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
Deferred Compensation, and other pre-tax benefit programs
Employees earn twelve (12) paid sick days annually
Ten to twenty-five (10-25) paid vacation days based on years of service
Employees earn three (3) paid personal days pro-rated based on start date
Thirteen - Fourteen (13-14) paid state holidays annually
For more information regarding State of Illinois Benefits follow this link: https://www2.illinois.gov/cms/benefits/Pages/default.aspx
If this opportunity appeals to you, please apply today!
This title is within the Upward Mobility Program (UMP). General Program information can be found by clicking on the Upward Mobility Program link or for specific title information at UMP Titles. To utilize upward mobility contractual rights for this position, employees must apply internally and must upload a copy of the UMP grade notice to their application documents prior to submission. UMP grades can be uploaded to the Additional Documents OR Grade Documentation section of the application.
This position DOES NOT contain “Specialized Skills” (as that term is used in CBAs).
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
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
Salary : $4,407 - $5,879