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Associate Scientist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Kemin

Associate Scientist - Food Science

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Overview Kemin Industries Food Technologies business unit is seeking an Associate Scientist in Food Science to join our team of experienced researchers and help strengthen our ingredient-innovation ...

Adecco

Scientist

Charles City, IA · On-site

$22/hr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Biology, Microbiology, Immunology, Animal Science, or related scientific field preferred. * Ability to follow written procedures, SOPs, work instructions, and ...

University of Iowa

PHYSICIAN SCIENTIST

Iowa City, IA · On-site

Carver College of Medicine is seeking physician-scientist candidates for tenure-track faculty positions (Assistant/Associate or Full Professors). Successful candidates will be expected to develop and ...

Wellmark, Inc.

Data Science Associate

Des Moines, IA

$57K - $58K/yr

Bachelor's degree in quantitative discipline such as statistics, mathematics, finance, accounting, computer science, engineering, or economics. * Less than 1-year hands-on experience with specific ...

Wellmark, Inc.

Data Science Associate

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$21/hr

Bachelor's degree in quantitative discipline such as statistics, mathematics, finance, accounting, computer science, engineering, or economics. * Less than 1-year hands-on experience with specific ...

Kelly Services

Embryology Scientist

Coralville, IA

Iowa City, IA Job Type: Full-Time | Exempt Position Summary Kelly Science & Clinical is seeking an experienced Embryologist to join a cutting-edge research laboratory in Coralville, Iowa. This role ...

Avera Health

Medical Laboratory Scientist

Le Mars, IA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or an Associate's degree in Medical Laboratory Technology. * 1 year of experience required. Previous experience in a hospital laboratory setting is ...

Avera Health

Medical Laboratory Scientist

Le Mars, IA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or an Associate's degree in Medical Laboratory Technology. * 1 year of experience required. Previous experience in a hospital laboratory setting is ...

Kent Corporation

SR SCIENTIST

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$85K - $117K/yr

KENT Worldwide™ is seeking a dynamic Senior Scientist of Innovation, Research & Development to lead cutting-edge product innovation in the pet category, while also collaborating across our human ...

Kent Corporation

SR SCIENTIST

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$85K - $117K/yr

KENT Worldwide™ is seeking a dynamic Senior Scientist of Innovation, Research & Development to lead cutting-edge product innovation in the pet category, while also collaborating across our human ...

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All JobsAssociate Scientist JobsAssociate Scientist Jobs in Iowa

Associate Scientist information

See Iowa salary details

$17

$33

$53

How much do associate scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate scientist in Iowa is $33.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $38.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is an associate scientist entry level?

An associate scientist position is often considered an entry-level or early-career role in research and development, typically requiring a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. It involves performing experiments, data analysis, and supporting scientific projects, with opportunities for skill development and advancement. However, some organizations may require prior experience or specific technical skills depending on the complexity of the work.

What degree do you need to be an associate scientist?

An associate scientist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Some positions may require a master's degree or higher, along with laboratory skills and experience with scientific tools and techniques.

What are some common challenges an associate scientist might face when transitioning from academia to industry?

Associate Scientists moving from academia to industry often encounter challenges such as adapting to a faster-paced environment and focusing on project-driven outcomes rather than open-ended research. In industry, there is a stronger emphasis on teamwork, meeting strict deadlines, and following standardized protocols. Adjusting to these expectations, learning new technologies, and effectively communicating results to cross-functional teams are key areas where new hires may need support.

What does an associate scientist do?

An Associate Scientist is a professional who supports research and development projects, typically in fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or environmental science. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and document results under the supervision of senior scientists. Associate Scientists play a key role in advancing scientific knowledge and product development by performing laboratory tasks, maintaining equipment, and following established protocols. Their work contributes to discoveries, quality control, and regulatory compliance within their organization.

What is an associate scientist?

An associate scientist takes on more responsibilities than an assistant scientist, supporting research and each experiment under the lead scientist, often in a laboratory environment. As an associate scientist, there are many industries you can work in, including the research field where the lead scientist oversees your project, and you help author papers. Many pharmaceutical companies hire associate scientists to analyze samples to develop drugs and assist with preclinical and clinical studies. Private companies need you to produce specialty chemicals for their clients. Materials scientists at the associate level conduct research and test the properties of metals, plastics, and other materials for their use in new products and packaging. Some positions have duties that include training other team members and overseeing students and fellows.

What is the difference between Associate Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectAssociate ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field; some roles may require a PhDTypically a Master's or PhD in a related discipline
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industry settingsResearch labs, academic institutions, industry
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, governmentBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, government
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level or mid-level research rolesAdvanced research roles, career progression

Associate Scientists and Research Scientists often work in similar environments within biotech, pharma, or academic sectors. The main difference lies in experience and educational requirements, with Research Scientists typically holding higher degrees and engaging in more independent or advanced research. Both roles are essential for scientific progress, but Research Scientists usually have more responsibility and autonomy in their projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Scientist, you generally need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant scientific field, along with strong analytical and laboratory skills. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), data analysis software, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills that distinguish top performers. These skills ensure accurate data collection, reliable experimental outcomes, and productive collaboration within research or product development teams.
More about Associate Scientist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Scientist jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Scientist jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Scientist jobs in Iowa? For Associate Scientist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Scientist jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Scientist jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Associate Scientist jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Associate Scientist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Scientist jobs in IA? For Associate Scientist jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Associate Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Scientist job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,185 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Associate Scientist

Red Boot Beverage

Des Moines, IA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Associate Scientist
On-site | Full-Time | U.S. Work Authorization Required
Position Summary
The Associate Scientist performs hands-on lab work, formulation testing, process optimization, and data analysis. The successful candidate will work cross-functionally to assist in the development, testing, and refinement of new products and processes, helping to drive innovation and ensure high standards of quality and performance.
Responsibilities
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodation, and perform other duties as assigned.
  • Conduct laboratory experiments and pilot-scale trials following established protocols and safety procedures.
  • Support the development, optimization, and validation of formulations and processes.
  • Prepare and analyze prototypes using standard laboratory techniques and equipment.
  • Collect, interpret, and present experimental data clearly and accurately.
  • Maintain detailed documentation, including lab notebooks, data sheets, and reports.
  • Assist in troubleshooting formulation or process challenges.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams such as Quality, Operations, and Regulatory Affairs.
  • Maintain lab equipment and ensure a safe, clean, and organized working environment.
  • Contributes to the preparation of technical documents, reports, and presentations.
  • Keep current with relevant scientific literature, tools, and best practices.
  • Cultivate and promote a strong safety culture and follow all safety policies, procedures and regulations; identify and communicate workplace hazards and correct or seek assistance in correcting unsafe actions or conditions; participate in safety meetings as required
  • Meet all GMP, SQF, and safety requirements; participate in food and safety meetings
Note: This job description is not exhaustive and may evolve over time.
Travel:  This position requires up to 5% of travel to customers or conferences.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
  • 1–3 years of hands-on experience in an R amp;D or laboratory setting, preferably within the food and beverage industry.
  • Familiarity with experimental design, data analysis, and lab techniques such as pH measurement or stability analysis.
  • Strong documentation skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently as well as in a team-oriented environment.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and basic data analysis tools.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently as well as in a team environment to attain personal, team and company goals
  • Well-organized and skilled in time management, prioritization, scheduling, and meeting deadlines
Qualifications
  • Experience with production environments
  • Exposure to regulatory guidelines and product development processes
  • Knowledge of ingredient functionality or analytical instrumentation
  • Understanding of quality systems, GMP, or HACCP principles
  • Bilingual (Spanish preferred)
Work Expectations
  • This is a regular, full-time position with assigned office hours located onsite. 
  • The ability to be available for work daily and extended hours as necessary.
  • Work is performed in a warehouse environment, manufacturing plant and occasionally outside in what may be adverse weather conditions.
  • The work environment can involve exposure to heat, cold, humidity, moving machinery, extreme noise, visual strain, confined spaces, fumes, odors, dust mists, and gases.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and listen.
  • This position requires long periods sitting/driving a forklift, standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, and climbing and operating machinery.
  • The employee should be able to lift and/or move items up to up to 50+ pounds many times per day.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
Why Join Red Boot Beverage
As an Associate Scientist, you will gain hands-on experience in beverage formulation, product development, process optimization, and pilot-scale testing while working closely with cross-functional teams. This role offers the opportunity to apply your scientific expertise, contribute to innovative products, and grow your career in a collaborative environment focused on quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
Benefits
  • Simple IRA
  • Simple IRA matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.
Note: We are not accepting third-party solicitations from recruiting firms.

Apply