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Animal Lab Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Tekberry

Scientist

Charles City, IA · On-site

$21/hr

Accurately record laboratory observations and test results; promptly report deviations or concerns to senior team members. * Assist with monitoring and maintaining inventory levels of animal/lab ...

Alliance Animal Health

Veterinary Assistant

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Company Description Bondurant Animal Clinic is a well-established, progressive, fast paced multi ... Pet restraint, triage incoming patients, collection and analysis of lab samples, diagnostic imaging ...

Alliance Animal Health

Veterinary Assistant

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Company Description Bondurant Animal Clinic is a well-established, progressive, fast paced multi ... Pet restraint, triage incoming patients, collection and analysis of lab samples, diagnostic imaging ...

Alliance Animal Health

Veterinary Assistant

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Company Description Bondurant Animal Clinic is a well-established, progressive, fast paced multi ... Pet restraint, triage incoming patients, collection and analysis of lab samples, diagnostic imaging ...

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All JobsAnimal Lab JobsAnimal Lab Assistant JobsAnimal Lab Assistant Jobs in Iowa

Animal Lab Assistant information

What is an animal lab assistant?

Animal Lab Assistants are professionals who support scientific research by caring for laboratory animals and maintaining their living environments. They are responsible for feeding, cleaning, monitoring animal health, and assisting researchers with experiments. Their work ensures that animals are treated ethically and that experiments are conducted in a safe, controlled environment. Animal Lab Assistants may also help with maintaining records and administering medications as directed by veterinarians or researchers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal lab assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Lab Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of animal care, handling procedures, and basic laboratory techniques, often supported by a relevant certification or associate degree in animal science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data recording systems, and compliance regulations such as IACUC protocols is typically expected. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work collaboratively are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the well-being of laboratory animals, the accuracy of research data, and adherence to ethical and safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by animal lab assistants, and how can they be managed?

Animal Lab Assistants often face challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to protocols, handling animals with care under potentially stressful conditions, and managing time efficiently between various tasks like feeding, cleaning, and record-keeping. To manage these challenges, it's helpful to develop strong organizational skills, stay up to date on animal care guidelines, and communicate effectively with research staff and veterinarians. Regular training and working closely within the team can also help ensure both animal welfare and research integrity are maintained.

What is the difference between Animal Lab Assistant vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAnimal Lab AssistantVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate's degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentResearch laboratories, animal care facilitiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, pharmaceutical companiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Animal Lab Assistants primarily support research labs and animal care in laboratory settings, often with minimal formal credentials. Veterinary Technicians work in veterinary clinics or hospitals, requiring specialized education and certification. While both roles involve animal care, Veterinary Technicians typically have more advanced training and perform clinical procedures, whereas Animal Lab Assistants focus on supporting research activities.

What are popular job titles related to Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Animal Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Animal Lab Assistant job openings:

Animal Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Lab Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Scientist

Tekberry

Charles City, IA • On-site

$21/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Title: Quality Control Laboratory & Clinical Animal Operations Scientist
Pay Rate: $21 hr.
Benefits include health, dental, and vision (following 60 days of employment)
Employment Type: Contract
Est. Start Date: 09/07/2026
Est. End Date: 09/05/2027
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 6AM-2:30PM
Location: Charles City, IA 50616
Job Code: JPC-12561
Tekberry is looking for a highly qualified and motivated Quality Control Laboratory & Clinical Animal Operations Scientist to work on-site with our client, the world's largest producer of vaccines and medicine for pets and livestock. As a W2 employee you will have access to health benefits.
Responsibilities:
First half of contract: Bacteriology/Immunology QC laboratory supporting product testing and GMP-compliant operations.
Second half of contract: Clinical/animal-side operations supporting product release studies and laboratory animal handling in a regulated environment.
The technician will perform routine testing and support activities under supervision while following company quality systems, regulatory requirements, and safety and animal welfare standards.
Bacteriology/Immunology Laboratory (first half of contract):
  • Test samples from manufacturing to ensure quality and compliance using applicable assays and good aseptic practices.
  • Perform pipetting and other routine bench techniques to support assay execution.
  • Prepare media and reagents; support media fill inspections.
  • Maintain testing schedules and assist with reagent/supply planning to ensure uninterrupted workflow.
  • Complete documentation in accordance with cGMP and data integrity expectations.
  • Clean and maintain laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and facility areas; support routine equipment monitoring.
  • Follow all applicable quality standards, policies, and procedures.
  • Provide minimal input/support for laboratory investigations (LIR) and other assigned project support.
  • Develop working knowledge of QC software used in routine work, including MODA EM and zLIMS/SAP.
  • Follow established safety practices at all times.

Clinical/Animal-Side Operations (second half of contract):
  • Perform product release safety and potency testing under supervision, following established regulatory and company standards.
  • Maintain laboratory animal care by adhering to best practices and ethical responsibilities consistent with IACUC, AAALAC, and other regulatory guidelines.
  • Accurately record laboratory observations and test results; promptly report deviations or concerns to senior team members.
  • Assist with monitoring and maintaining inventory levels of animal/lab supplies and equipment to support consistent workflow and compliance.
  • Support upkeep, cleanliness, and routine maintenance of work areas to maintain a safe, organized, and compliant environment.
  • Build understanding of assigned testing requirements to communicate effectively with senior staff and the team leader regarding testing schedules and animal distribution.
  • Contribute to a collaborative, solutions-focused team culture that supports continuous improvement and ethical conduct.
  • Develop knowledge of the on-site IACUC, its expectations, and the application of Animal Usage Protocols (AUPs).
  • Participate in laboratory investigations as directed, assisting with data collection and reporting when needed.

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Biology, Microbiology, Immunology, Animal Science, or related field preferred.
  • Ability to follow written procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and quality documentation requirements.
  • Demonstrated attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records.
  • Comfort working in a regulated environment with strict adherence to GMP/GLP, safety, and animal welfare standards.
  • Willingness to work across both laboratory and animal/clinical environments during the contract term.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with aseptic technique, media preparation, and routine microbiology/immunology testing.
  • Familiarity with cGMP documentation practices and deviation/investigation support.
  • Experience using laboratory/QC systems such as MODA EM, LIMS, and/or SAP (or comparable platforms).
  • Prior experience working with laboratory animals and understanding of IACUC/AUP expectations.

We need hard-working, reliable employees.
Tekberry Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other protected categories under all applicable laws.
Tekberry, Inc is a Certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE).
By submitting your resume, you are explicitly consenting to receive communications from our organization via text message. Rest assured all our texts are sent by real people and we look forward to a conversation with you about this job!
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