Salaries in Lake Forest, IL

1. Technical Project Lead
   Average Salary: $102,184
   This role involves managing projects for tech companies. Project leaders ensure the successful completion of projects by coordinating teams, setting deadlines, and troubleshooting issues. Many tech firms, including Cisco Systems and Oracle, offer these positions.
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2. Registered Nurse
   Average Salary: $91,547
   These professionals provide care in hospitals and clinics. Nurses assess patient needs, administer treatments, and assist with patient recovery. AdventHealth and Northwestern Medicine are local employers.
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3. Injection Molding Process Technician
   Average Salary: $49,793
   These technicians operate and maintain injection molding machines in manufacturing. They ensure the machines work correctly and troubleshoot any issues. Companies like ABB and Fanuc employ these specialists in the area.
   Find Injection Molding Process Technician jobs in Lake Forest, IL
   

   
   

4. Medical Assistant
   Average Salary: $44,589
   Medical assistants support doctors in clinics and hospitals. They take patient histories, prepare for exams, and assist with minor procedures. Local practices like Lake Forest Immediate Care hire these professionals.
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5. Certified Nursing Assistant
   Average Salary: $43,074
   CNAs provide basic care to patients in healthcare settings. They help with daily activities, monitor vital signs, and report changes to nurses. Facilities like The Villa Healthcare and Lake Forest Hospital employ CNAs.
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6. Line Cook
   Average Salary: $40,599
   Line cooks prepare meals in commercial kitchens. They follow recipes, ensure food is cooked properly, and maintain a clean work area. Restaurants like The Brick Oven and Panera Bread hire these cooks.
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7. Housekeeping
   Average Salary: $38,882
   Housekeeping staff clean and maintain guest rooms in hotels. They replace linens, clean bathrooms, and restock supplies. Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt hotels in the area have these positions.
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8. Cook
   Average Salary: $38,378
   Cooks prepare meals in various settings, such as schools or catering companies. They follow recipes, ensure food safety, and prepare food for large groups. Local schools and catering firms hire these cooks.
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9. Forklift Operator
   Average Salary: $36,508
   Forklift operators move materials around warehouses. They drive forklifts, load and unload trucks, and ensure the safety of goods. Companies like Kohler and Illinois Tool Works offer these jobs.
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10. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $34,769
    Dishwashers clean dishes and utensils in restaurants. They operate dishwashers, wash dishes by hand, and maintain a clean kitchen area. Restaurants such as Chili's and Red Lobster hire these workers.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Lake Forest, IL
    

1. Lawn Care Technician
   Average Salary: $44,421
   Working with landscaping companies, lawn care technicians ensure properties are well-kept and beautiful. They perform tasks like mowing, edging, and trimming. Seasonal work is common, but many grow into landscaping contractors.
   Find Lawn Care Technician jobs in Lake Forest, IL
   

   
   

2. Server
   Average Salary: $42,004
   Serving guests in local restaurants, servers take orders and deliver food to tables. They must provide excellent customer service. Experience often leads to tips and higher earnings. Many restaurants also offer employee meals.
   Find Server jobs in Lake Forest, IL
   

   
   

3. Meat Cutter
   Average Salary: $40,981
   In grocery stores, meat cutters prepare cuts of meat to meet customer needs. They use sharp knives and must follow safety guidelines. This job involves physical activity and attention to detail.
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4. Line Cook
   Average Salary: $40,599
   Working in fast-paced kitchens, line cooks prepare ingredients and meals quickly and efficiently. They must follow recipes and manage time well. This job is ideal for those who enjoy a busy environment.
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5. Housekeeping
   Average Salary: $38,882
   Keeping rooms clean and tidy, housekeepers work in hotels and motels. They change linens, clean bathrooms, and restock supplies. This job requires attention to detail and a willingness to work hard.
   Find Housekeeping jobs in Lake Forest, IL
   

   
   

6. Dishwasher
   Average Salary: $34,769
   In busy kitchens, dishwashers clean dishes and utensils. They ensure everything is spotless and ready for the next use. This job involves standing for long periods and handling hot water.
   Find Dishwasher jobs in Lake Forest, IL
   

   
   

7. Service Team Member
   Average Salary: $34,698
   At quick-service restaurants, service team members take orders and serve food. They also clean tables and ensure customers have everything they need. This role demands strong communication skills and a friendly demeanor.
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8. Barista
   Average Salary: $34,417
   Working in coffee shops, baristas prepare a variety of coffee beverages. They need to be fast and accurate. Many gain tips, making this job rewarding for those who enjoy working with people.
   Find Barista jobs in Lake Forest, IL
   

   
   

9. Server Assistant
   Average Salary: $30,405
   Supporting servers, server assistants help in dining areas. They bus tables, refill water, and assist with orders. This job is great for those looking to gain experience in the restaurant industry.
   Find Server Assistant jobs in Lake Forest, IL
   

1. Abbott
   Average Salary: $140,732
   Abbott is a global healthcare leader that develops breakthroughs in healthcare. With a long history, Abbott provides high-quality products and services to millions of people worldwide. Job seekers can find rewarding positions here.
   

   
   

2. Reynolds Consumer Products
   Average Salary: $132,655
   Reynolds Consumer Products is a top player in food, home, and personal care products. They have a variety of brands, from Reynolds Wrap to Dr. Bronner's. This company offers a dynamic work environment and good career growth.
   

   
   

3. Packaging Corporation of America
   Average Salary: $117,011
   Packaging Corporation of America is a major player in the packaging industry. They make high-quality packaging solutions for various markets. The company values innovation and sustainability, offering stable and rewarding career opportunities.
   

   
   

4. Grainger
   Average Salary: $115,251
   Grainger is a leading supplier of maintenance, repair, and operating supplies. They serve businesses around the globe. Grainger offers many opportunities for growth and career development in a supportive environment.
   

   
   

5. HealthFitness
   Average Salary: $107,967
   HealthFitness focuses on fitness solutions for health and wellness. They provide innovative fitness equipment and services for a healthier lifestyle. Working here means being part of a company that values health and wellness.
   

   
   

6. Impact Networking, LLC
   Average Salary: $102,525
   Impact Networking, LLC offers network infrastructure and support services. They serve businesses with reliable and cutting-edge network solutions. This company provides a dynamic environment with opportunities to make a significant impact.
   

   
   

7. Trustmark
   Average Salary: $101,683
   Trustmark provides insurance and financial services. They help individuals and businesses with their financial needs. This company offers a stable and rewarding career path in the financial sector.
   

   
   

8. Cella
   Average Salary: $91,531
   Cella is a management consulting firm. They help businesses improve their performance and achieve their goals. Working at Cella means being part of a team that values innovation and client success.
   

   
   

9. Northwestern Medicine
   Average Salary: $78,176
   Northwestern Medicine is a leader in healthcare. They provide top-quality medical services and are committed to research and education. Job seekers can find fulfilling positions in this prestigious healthcare organization.
   

   
   

10. Lake Forest College
    Average Salary: $66,952
    Lake Forest College is a liberal arts institution known for its academic excellence. They offer a wide range of programs and a supportive learning environment. This college provides rewarding career opportunities in education and administration.
    

The cost of living index in Lake Forest, Illinois, shows that residents face higher expenses in several key areas compared to the nationwide average. For instance, the housing index stands at 170, which means housing costs are 70% higher than the national average. This higher price tag makes housing one of the more significant expenses in Lake Forest. Additionally, groceries also see a rise, with an index of 110, indicating that food costs are 10% above the average. Though still higher, the increases in groceries are more moderate than in housing.

Other costs, however, remain closer to the national average. Utilities in Lake Forest have an index of 95, showing a 5% decrease from the national average. Transportation and healthcare both mirror the nationwide index at 105, indicating no additional costs for these essentials. Even miscellaneous expenses, with an index of 115, only reflect a 15% increase. These figures suggest that while certain living costs in Lake Forest are notably higher, others align closely with the national average, offering a mixed picture for potential residents considering the cost of living.