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Associate Scientist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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

$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 ...

Actalent

Senior Scientist

Charles City, IA

$82K - $113K/yr

Senior Scientist The Senior Scientist plays a key role in developing, validating, and implementing analytical methods to support raw materials, intermediates, and finished products within a GMP ...

Iowa State University

Research Scientist II

Ames, IA · On-site

Research Scientist II Job Group: Professional & Scientific Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and 2 years of related experience The Center for Crops Utilization Research (CCUR) at ...

Iowa State University

Research Scientist II

Ames, IA

Research Scientist II Job Group:Professional & Scientific Required Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor's degree and 2 years of related experience The Center for Crops Utilization Research (CCUR) at Iowa ...

Actalent

Senior Scientist

Charles City, IA

$82K - $113K/yr

Senior Scientist The Senior Scientist plays a key role in developing, validating, and implementing analytical methods to support raw materials, intermediates, and finished products within a GMP ...

Berkshire Hathaway Energy

Sr Data Scientist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$117K - $146K/yr

The sr data scientist is a member of the Data and Analytics Information Technology team, having a critical role in supporting the BHE (Berkshire Hathaway Energy) business transformations and asset ...

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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 Jul 19, 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.

What can I use my Associates in science degree for?

An Associate Scientist with a science degree can work in laboratories, research facilities, or quality control environments, performing experiments, data analysis, and sample testing. The degree provides foundational knowledge in biology, chemistry, or related fields and often requires familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols.

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 certifications depending on the complexity of the work.

What degree do you need to be an associate scientist?

An associate scientist typically holds at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Advanced roles 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 role of an associate scientist?

An associate scientist conducts research, experiments, and data analysis to support scientific projects within a laboratory or research environment. They often assist senior scientists, follow established protocols, and use laboratory tools and techniques to gather and interpret data. This role typically requires a relevant degree in a scientific field and attention to detail.

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 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $70,185 per year, or $33.7 per hour.
SR SCIENTIST

SR SCIENTIST

Kent Corporation

Muscatine, IA • On-site

$85K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

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 food and beverage lines. This leadership role will drive R&D initiatives, develop and test new ingredients, and mentor a talented team-all with a focus on delivering high-quality, safe, and effective products.
  • This role will be based in Muscatine, Iowa.

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Demonstrate innovative design, development, and execution of research projects through literature review and scientific teamwork.
  • Stay up to date through continued learning on industry developments and trends related to ingredients and ingredient functionality and identify new ingredients that can expand the litter and pet treat/supplement product lines.
  • Design, oversee, and conduct experiments to develop and test new cat litter and pet food ingredients, analyze data to evaluate the performance and safety of different ingredients and the opportunity for using within pet litter products or expanding the litter portfolio.
  • Leads the execution of design, optimization, verification, troubleshooting and validation of current and new techniques and provides input into the design, implementation and interpretation of experimental studies with respect to the pet product platforms.
  • Provide technical leadership on projects from concept development through successful commercialization, interacting with production, quality, regulatory, sales, marketing, and technical services.
  • Foster a culture of innovation by continually introducing ideas and product concepts for new products, quality improvements, and productivity.
  • Familiarize and evaluate competitive products in the marketplace to determine market opportunities for new products and application recommendations for current products.
  • Investigate product and process challenges, provide creative solutions using sound scientific techniques and data-based decision making to solve challenges in development and commercialization and ongoing product production.
  • Collaborate internally with other departments, such as manufacturing, procurement and quality control, to ensure that the ingredients meet product specifications.
  • Collaborate externally with suppliers and laboratories to extend our research capabilities.
  • Troubleshoot with quality and operations on issues of customer complaints, product quality, ingredient quality or anything related to consumer feedback.
  • Deliver timely and accurate analytical results and technical reports to support research projects, resolve customer complaints, benchmark competitive products, develop new products, improve existing products, and support various business teams.
  • Analyze and interpret data using proven statistical methods to provide conclusions and recommendations for product development, problem-solving, and continuous product improvement.
  • Maintain accurate records of experiments and results.
  • Display team focus and collaboration in both innovating new products and ensuring current products are performing optimally.
  • Perform other duties or special projects as needed.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND/OR QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelors of Science degree with 10+ years of experience, a Master of Science degree is a plus
  • Experience working with ingredients and consumer products is preferred
  • Attention to detail and effective time management and project management skills are vital to meet deadlines
  • Ability to manage and engage direct reports, along with leading a culture of collaboration
  • 10+ years of experience in a research and development role, preferably in the consumer goods industries
  • Experience leading and managing team members in R&D and innovation discipline
  • Experience in developing new products and ideas that led to commercialization
  • Experience communicating innovation and research to other groups in a manner that is understandable and leads to insights
  • Experimental design and statistical analysis competency
  • Demonstrated ability to use scientific instruments for measuring ingredient properties
  • Knowledge of quality control and formulation in the pet or food products industry is a plus

TRAVEL EXPECTED:
  • Some travel may be required - estimated 25% of the time or less
  • Some international travel to customers or company divisions
  • Travel for team meetings, other Kent campuses, technical meetings, conferences and training courses

OTHER:
  • While this role is primarily in the office environment, there will be time spent in the plant laboratory and plant facility working with the R&D Scientist.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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