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Associate Degree In Biology Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in biology or a related scientific field * Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while collaborating with lab managers * Strong attention to detail Benefits Overview ...

Laboratory Technician

Johnston, IA · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

Bachelor's or Associate's degree program in plant science, biological science, genetics, or related field such as horticulture or biotechnology. * Knowledge and experience in general lab operation.

MLT/MT

Guthrie Center, IA · On-site

$29 - $38/hr

QUALIFICATIONS: • Bachelor's of Science or Associate's degree in Laboratory Science or has passed ... QUALIFICATIONS: • Bachelor's degree in a chemical, physical, biological, clinical laboratory ...

MLT/MT

Guthrie Center, IA · On-site

$29 - $38/hr

Bachelor's of Science or Associate's degree in Laboratory Science or has passed the proficiency ... Bachelor's degree in a chemical, physical, biological, clinical laboratory science, or medical ...

Associate's degree in accounting; Bachelor's degree preferred , or equivalent combination of education and experience * Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy * Ability to manage ...

Lab Quality Technician

Ankeny, IA

$18.75 - $23.75/hr

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Food Science, Life Sciences, or a related field. * At least 1 year of related experience in a laboratory, food quality, or quality assurance environment. * Hands-on ...

Showing results 41-60

Associate Degree In Biology information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$20

$32

How much do associate degree in biology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate degree in biology in Iowa is $20.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can you do with an associate degree in biology?

An Associate Degree in Biology provides foundational knowledge of biological sciences and prepares graduates for entry-level jobs such as laboratory technician, research assistant, or environmental technician. It can also serve as a stepping stone for further education, including transferring credits toward a bachelor's degree in biology or related fields. With this degree, students gain laboratory skills, understanding of biological concepts, and practical experience that are valuable in healthcare, research, education, and environmental sectors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive with an associate degree in biology?

To thrive with an Associate Degree in Biology, you need a solid grasp of fundamental biological concepts, laboratory techniques, and data analysis skills, typically gained through coursework and lab experience. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and software such as Microsoft Excel or basic statistical tools is essential. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in research or technical support roles. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate scientific work, maintaining safety standards, and supporting further career growth or advanced education.

What types of entry-level jobs can I pursue with an associate degree in biology, and how do these roles typically support larger scientific teams?

With an associate degree in biology, you can pursue entry-level positions such as laboratory technician, research assistant, or environmental field technician. In these roles, you'll often work alongside scientists and higher-level researchers, assisting with experiments, data collection, and equipment maintenance. Your work is vital to the team’s overall success, as you help ensure experiments are conducted accurately and efficiently. Additionally, these positions provide hands-on experience that can be a stepping stone to further education or advancement into more specialized roles within the biological sciences.

What is the difference between Associate Degree In Biology vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectAssociate Degree In BiologyLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree in biology or related fieldAssociate degree or certificate in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentClassroom, research labs, fieldworkMedical, research, or industrial labs
Industry UsageEducation, research, healthcare supportLaboratory testing, sample analysis

Both roles often require an associate degree and involve working in laboratory or research settings. While an Associate Degree In Biology provides a broad foundation in biological sciences suitable for education and research, a Laboratory Technician focuses more on conducting tests and experiments in lab environments. The choice depends on whether you prefer a more academic or hands-on technical role within the biological sciences industry.

Is an associate degree in biology worth it?

An associate degree in biology prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as laboratory technician or research assistant, often requiring skills in lab techniques and data analysis. It can serve as a stepping stone to further education or certifications, but may have limited job opportunities compared to a bachelor's degree in biology or related fields.

What job categories do people searching Associate Degree In Biology jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Degree In Biology jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Associate Degree In Biology job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,390 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Research and Development Specialist II 2nd Shift (Monday through Thursday, 3pm to 2am)

Bayer

Ankeny, IA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Bayer rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

At Bayer we’re visionaries, driven to solve the world’s toughest challenges and striving for a world where 'Health for all Hunger for none’ is no longer a dream, but a real possibility. We’re doing it with energy, curiosity and sheer dedication, always learning from unique perspectives of those around us, expanding our thinking, growing our capabilities and redefining ‘impossible’. There are so many reasons to join us. If you’re hungry to build a varied and meaningful career in a community of brilliant and diverse minds to make a real difference, there’s only one choice. Research and Development Specialist II 2nd Shift (Monday through Thursday, 3pm to 2am) Research and Development Specialist II - 2 nd Shift (Monday through Thursday, 3pm to 2am.) Identifies and validates molecular targets that play a key role in plant pathology, yield, and nutrition; analyzes and identifies the biological, chemical, and genetic properties of plants; and studies molecular biology, cell biology, plant genetics, plant physiology, biochemistry, and/or microbiology as input to the discovery of new plant cultivars or agricultural methods; in this Production Genotyping role (Research and Development Specialist II - 2 nd Shift (Monday through Thursday, 3pm to 2am in Ankeny, Iowa), you execute high-throughput genotyping activities in close collaboration with lab team members to ensure timely delivery of high-quality data, consistently achieve daily and weekly KPI targets, and drive process and system improvements while maintaining strict adherence to safety, quality, and compliance requirements; you also operate, troubleshoot, and maintain laboratory automation systems as part of a dynamic, innovation-driven R&D environment. YOUR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES The primary responsibilities of this role, Research and Development Specialist II - 2 nd Shift (Monday through Thursday, 3pm to 2am) are to: Meet daily and weekly genotyping objectives while consistently delivering high-quality data; Manage and operate specialized high-throughput laboratory and automation technologies, including troubleshooting and routine maintenance; Participate in cross-functional work across multiple platforms and process areas to support end-to-end genotyping workflows; Solve technical and operational challenges, enhance workflow efficiency and driving continuous improvement in lab processes; Design and conduct experiments, applying specialized scientific techniques and multiple data sources to validate methods and improve processes; Adhere to established protocols while operating complex instrumentation, using deductive reasoning to resolve issues within sophisticated laboratory technologies; Prioritize and coordinate tasks within a large team, provide training and guidance to colleagues, and maintain comprehensive records and documentation in digital and paper systems; Champion a strong safety culture by following and reinforcing best practices, protocols, and compliance requirements in all lab activities. WHO YOU ARE Bayer seeks an incumbent who possesses the following: Required Qualifications: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in biology, Chemistry, Engineering, or another life science field; Valid driver’s license (driving record will be reviewed and must meet guidelines based on the company’s Risk Screening for Hiring Drivers); Proficiency in digital technologies, including data analysis and visualization tools, and experience with computerized workflow tracking systems (e.g., automated laboratory systems, warehouse inventory, shipping/receiving, pharmaceutical tracking, hospital/healthcare, food service); Experience in experimental design and execution, with familiarity in high-throughput laboratory automation and mechanical aptitude for operating and troubleshooting automated systems; Demonstrated ability to overcome challenges, take initiative, and deliver high-quality results while adhering to established processes and safety protocols; Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with proven problem-solving skills in a collaborative, team-oriented environment; Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and timelines while maintaining urgency and efficiency to support business objectives. Preferred Qualifications: At least one year of experience in a high-throughput TaqMan genotyping or production environment (including post-undergraduate work in academia or industry); Expertise in leveraging data for decision-making (e.g., analyzing production KPIs, guiding investigations, conducting risk assessments, and performing cost/benefit analyses) and in organizing and developing specialized reports to meet dynamic business needs; Experience in troubleshooting and maintaining laboratory instrumentation, with a background in workflow optimization using root cause analysis, Lean, 5S, or Six Sigma methodologies; Proven ability to balance and prioritize business deliverables, personal development, and project assignments, and to independently design, execute, interpret, and validate scientific experiments or methods; Successful track record of communicating scientific data and laboratory matters to teams, partners, and stakeholders, and of building networks and collaborating to drive innovation, continuous improvement, and solutions to complex business or scientific challenges. Posting available until August 27, 2026 Employees can expect to be paid a salary between $60,000.00 to $90,000.00. Additional compensation may include a bonus or commission (if relevant). Other benefits include health care, vision, dental, retirement, PTO, sick leave, etc. If selected for this role, the offer may vary based on market data/ranges, an applicant’s skills and prior relevant experience, certain degrees and certifications, and other relevant factors. YOUR APPLICATION Bayer offers a wide variety of competitive compensation and benefits programs. If you meet the requirements of this unique opportunity, and want to impact our mission Health for all, Hunger for none, we encourage you to apply now. Be part of something bigger. Be you. Be Bayer. To all recruitment agencies: Bayer does not accept unsolicited third party resumes. Bayer is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans Bayer is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its application process for individuals with disabilities and encourages applicants with disabilities to request any needed accommodation(s) using the contact information below. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: Notice for U.S. Visitors: All information on this site is subject to compliance with local rule and regulations as they may vary from time to time and across different geographies, including, without limitation, U.S. Executive Orders. Bayer is an E-Verify Employer. Location: United States : Iowa : Ankeny Division: Crop Science Reference Code: 880378 Contact Us Email: hrop_usa@bayer.com Salary: . Date posted: 08/14/2026

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About Bayer

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of healthcare and nutrition. We design our products and services to help people and planet thrive by supporting efforts to address the unprecedented global challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. At Bayer, we’re committed to drive sustainable development and generate a positive impact with our businesses. Through bold ideas and unprecedented insights, we’re pioneering new possibilities that advance life for all of us. That means reimagining how we care for ourselves and one another by empowering everyday health, improving approaches to patient care, and finding better ways to nourish our communities around the world.

Industry

Agriculture

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Whippany, NJ, US