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Animal Lab Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

Additional duties include data analysis and microscopy using established lab protocols, with the ... animal details, surgical anesthesia, experimental details, stapled or taped datasheets, etc.

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

Additional duties include data analysis and microscopy using established lab protocols, with the ... animal details, surgical anesthesia, experimental details, stapled or taped datasheets, etc.

Showing results 41-60

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 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 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 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 cities in Iowa are hiring for Animal Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Animal Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Lab Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Quality Control Lab Technician

Central Garden & Pet

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Central Garden & Pet rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Central Garden & Pet

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,192 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Central Garden & Pet

  • 97%

    97% say they get paid breaks

    say they get paid breaks

  • 94%

    94% say it is easy to take sick days

    say it is easy to take sick days

  • 94%

    94% say they don’t worry about hours

    say they don’t worry about hours

Featured by Central Garden & Pet, based on 41 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees


Job description

Description

We want to hire people who care about what they do.  At Central Life Sciences, we are proud to supply animal healthcare products throughout the United States.  Quality is a big deal, and we can’t make a quality product without employees who work safely, show up every day and are committed to their work.  If that is who you are, then we want you on our team! We are currently hiring for a Quality Control Lab Technician.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Daily production line inspections and releasing of products in a timely and efficient manner to ensure timely shipment
  • Inspection of incoming components, raw materials, and finished goods for release or rejection
  • Sample collection, shipment, and data analysis
  • Laboratory analysis of Raw Materials, Feeds, and Finished Goods
  • Knowledge of methods including GC, Densitometer, FTIR, HPLC, Aseptic Plating a plus
  • Laboratory Documentation and record maintenance
  • Method transfer and validation
  • Review and audit of manufacturing control records
  • Improve workflow processes and procedures
  • Issuance of Non-Conformances
  • Assist production with potential quality issues while packaging or formulating
  • Create and update Work Instructions
  • Maintain and review CoA’s, manufacturing records, and database sheets for incoming products
  • Support, promote and display a safe work environment
  • Special projects as assigned by QC Manager or Plant Manager

 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Associate or bachelor’s degree in a scientific or related field.
  • 2 to 5 years’ experience in quality or manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to learn basic statistical analysis.
  • Basic skills in Microsoft Word. Excel, & Access.
  • Prior lab experience.
  • Prior method transfer and validation a plus.
  • Previous experience with ANSI and AQL’s a plus.
  • Aseptic processing technique a plus.
  • ASQ and/or Lean Certification a plus.
  • SAP and LIMS knowledge a plus.

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Role requires extended periods on your feet, bending, stooping
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Able to open tightly closed drums of assorted sizes.
  • Works under regular office, laboratory, and manufacturing conditions.
  • Must be able to wear a respirator.

 BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS

  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Free Life and Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • 401k with 3% company match and annual profit-sharing bonus!
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Access to thousands of free online courses
  • Discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more!
  • Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional)
  • Referral Program with cash bonus
  • Access to on-demand pay
  • Paid parental leave
Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) is a leading consumer goods company in the pet and garden industries. Guided by the belief that home is central to life, the Company's purpose is to proudly nurture happy and healthy homes. For over 45 years, its innovative and trusted solutions have helped lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a diversified portfolio of market-leading brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Best Bully Sticks®, Cadet®, C&S®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Kaytee®, Nylabone®, Pennington®, Sevin® and Zoёcon®. With fiscal 2025 net sales of $3.1 billion, Central has strong manufacturing and logistics capabilities supported by a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. The Company is headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, and employs over 6,000 people, primarily across North America. Visit www.central.com to learn more.
 
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.
#LI-MJ1 

Working at Central Garden & Pet

Perks for frontline workers

From Central Garden & Pet, via Breakroom

  • Safety is a top priority!

  • Paid Vacation

  • Paid Holidays

  • Paid Sick Time

  • Paid Breaks

  • Consistent shift and schedule

  • Comprehensive Health Insurance

  • 401k with Company Match

  • Referral Program with Cash Bonus

  • Education Assistance

  • Paid Parental Leave

About Central Garden & Pet, in their own words

From Central Garden & Pet

Our leading consumer and professional brands provide forward-thinking, high quality products to care for your lawn, garden, pets and community. We are committed to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier and communities grow stronger.

Company values

From Central Garden & Pet

The Central Way | We Do the Right Thing | We Strive to be the Best | We are Entrepreneurial | We Win Together | We Grow Every Day | We are Passionate

Diversity and inclusion statement

From Central Garden & Pet

Central Garden & Pet is committed to building a great place to work that embraces diversity as a key pillar of our culture. This is a journey, and we are committed to listening, learning and doing the work to move forward together.


What Central Garden & Pet employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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