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Biology Lab Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Biology Lab Technician

Johnston, IA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

With guidance from supervision, this person will assist technical personnel in general laboratory ... biological sample inventory in the lab. • Migrate inventory records into databases. • In ...

Lab Join our team and make a positive impact on your local community in this amazing part time ... biological specimens into the department, preparation of samples for analytical testing, and may ...

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Biology Lab Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$19

$27

How much do biology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for biology lab assistant in Iowa is $19.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Biology Lab Assistants face when supporting multiple research projects simultaneously?

Biology Lab Assistants often juggle tasks for several ongoing experiments, which can make time management and organization challenging. Prioritizing tasks, maintaining accurate records, and coordinating with different researchers are essential to ensure all projects progress smoothly. Adapting quickly to shifting priorities and effectively communicating with team members helps prevent errors and keeps the lab running efficiently. Building strong organizational habits and seeking clarification when needed are key strategies for success in this role.

Can I work in a lab with just a biology degree?

A biology degree can qualify you for entry-level lab assistant positions, especially if you have laboratory skills and familiarity with lab equipment. However, some roles may require additional certifications, technical training, or experience with specific tools or techniques. Advancing in the field often involves gaining practical experience and possibly pursuing further education or specialized training.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To become a biology lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring or requiring postsecondary education such as an associate degree or coursework in biology or related sciences. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols are also important qualifications.

What is the difference between Biology Lab Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectBiology Lab AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; some roles may require certificationAssociate degree or bachelor's in biology, chemistry, or related field; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, research labs, hospitalsResearch labs, healthcare facilities, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, research institutionsBiotech companies, pharmaceutical firms, hospitals
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

While both roles support laboratory work in biological settings, Biology Lab Assistants typically work in educational or research environments with less emphasis on technical procedures. Laboratory Technicians often have more advanced training and perform more complex testing and analysis, making them suitable for industrial or clinical settings.

What does a biology lab assistant do?

A biology lab assistant supports laboratory activities by preparing specimens, maintaining equipment, and assisting with experiments. They often handle tasks such as data recording, sample organization, and ensuring safety protocols are followed in a laboratory setting. Basic knowledge of laboratory techniques and attention to detail are important for this role.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

The average salary for a biology lab assistant ranges from $25,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically pay closer to the lower end, while those with specialized skills or certifications may earn more. Pay can also vary based on the work environment, such as academic institutions or research facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Biology Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Biology Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of biological concepts, laboratory safety procedures, and basic lab techniques, often gained through relevant coursework or a degree in biology or a related field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data collection tools, and software like Microsoft Excel or laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure accurate experimental results, maintain a safe lab environment, and support smooth research operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Biology Lab jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Biology Lab jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Biology Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Biology Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Biology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Biology Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Biology Lab Assistant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 10% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,555 per year, or $19 per hour.

College Laboratory Assistant 1- Biology Lab Assistant

Minnesota State Colleges and Universities

Coon Rapids, IA • On-site

$21.26 - $30.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

All Job Postings will close at 12:01 a.m. CT on the specified Closing Date (if designated).
Working Title:
College Laboratory Assistant 1- Biology Lab Assistant
Institution:
Anoka-Ramsey Community College
Classification Title:
College Laboratory Asst 1
Bargaining Unit / Union:
207: AFSCME - Technical
City:
Coon Rapids
FLSA:
Non Job Exempt
Full Time / Part Time:
Full time
Employment Condition:
Classified - Temporary (Fixed Term)
Salary Range:
$21.26 - $30.20
Job Description
The Biology Department at Anoka-Ramsey Community College offers a variety of courses, ranging from Principles of Biology to Genetics and General Ecology for the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC) and general education, and in preparation for allied health fields and transfer to Biology major programs, such as pre-med and pre-vet, at four-year institutions.
The Biology Lab Assistant assists students in the instructional processes for laboratory exercises by working with faculty to review and develop experiments and exercises, preparation of solutions, and handling of animals used in biology instructions. This also includes maintenance of plants and the green house, setting up laboratory experiments and demonstrations, maintaining equipment, assisting in ordering and inventorying equipment and supplies, and ensuring proper storage. This position will also supervise work study students and peer tutors.
Salary Range:
$21.26 -$29.28 hourly
Minimum Qualifications
  • Post -secondary coursework in Biology sufficient to provide technical lab services for students, faculty, and staff
  • OR 6 months of teaching/tutoring experience in Biology at the high school level or above
  • OR an equivalent combination of education and work experience

Preferred Qualification
  • Understanding of and commitment to equity and inclusion
  • Post-secondary coursework in Chemistry OR 6 months of teaching/tutoring experience in Chemistry
  • Experience in maintenance of organisms and other model systems, preparation of chemicals and maintenance of inventory
  • Understanding of subject matter and principles in microbiology, anatomy/physiology, biology, and chemistry
  • Knowledge of lab safety and the ability to convey this to others
  • Verbal and written communication skills sufficient to effectively communicate and collaborate with others

Other Requirements
Please complete the online application form at JR0000005384 and upload these documents by the posting deadline. This position is posted through June 20, 2026 The posting will be removed from the website on August 11, 2026 at 12:01 am central time.
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume

Within your application material, please address how you meet all minimum qualifications and any preferred qualifications for this position. Incomplete applications may not be accepted.
Internal Applicants
All current Minnesota State institution employees will need to log into Workday to apply for the position via the Jobs Hub. The Jobs Hub can be found under the Menu, in the upper left-hand corner of Workday, under the Apps, and then Jobs Hub. Employees may also search for "Browse Jobs - Employees" in Workday via the search bar at the top to view open positions.
NOTICE: In accordance with the Minnesota State Vehicle Fleet Safety Program, employees driving on college/university business, whether using a rental or state vehicle, shall be required to conform to Minnesota State's vehicle use criteria and consent to a Motor Vehicle Records check.
The safety of all is of vital concern. The Clery Act Campus Crime & Security Report is available to perspective employees at ARCC at http://www.anokaramsey.edu/about-us/safety-security/. The campus Title IX Coordinator is Mike Opoku and can be contacted at mike.opoku@anokaramsey.edu or (763) 433-1272.
It is our commitment to ensure the selection process for this position is accessible to all candidates. Please contact the Anoka-Ramsey Human Resources Office, (763) 433-1160, to request a reasonable accommodation during the selection process.
Anoka-Ramsey Community College is an equal opportunity institution and employer.
Work Shift (Hours / Days of work)
Monday- Friday (1:00 pm- 9:30 pm)
Telework (Yes/No)
No
About
Anoka-Ramsey Community College (ARCC) is an open-door, comprehensive higher education institution committed to excellence in teaching and learning. ARCC has campuses in both Cambridge and Coon Rapids, Minnesota.
The aligned institutions of Anoka-Ramsey Community College and Anoka Technical College (ATC) are members of Minnesota State. With over 100 degree, certificates, and transfer programs across three campuses, ARCC and ATC have served the citizens of the Twin Cities and East Central Minnesota since 1965. Annually, the two colleges (three campuses) serve more than 16,000 learners of all ages and ethnicities as they pursue associate degrees that transfer as the first two years of a bachelor's degree, or technical and certificate programs that lead immediately to rewarding careers.
We are committed to responding to the educational needs of our changing communities and to providing opportunities for enhancing knowledge, skills, and values in a supportive learning environment. We recognize and assert the value of inclusion as an ethical imperative and as a necessity for academic rigor, student success, and lifelong learning. Our goal is to strive for inclusive excellence in our commitment to preparing all students and employees for success. Our commitment to inclusive excellence seeks to extend beyond academic offerings to meet diverse student interests as well as regional and economic needs.
Our college prides itself in our support for students' holistic needs. We have many students who are first-generation students, students with disabilities, veteran students, post-traditional students, and students who identify as LGBTQIA. The student population at ARCC is composed of <1% American Indian/Alaska Native, 7% Asian, 15% Black or African American, 6% Hispanic of any race, <1% Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander, 63% White, and 5% two or more races, and 3% unknown. We are committed to creating a vibrant and diverse community of employees composed of first-generation students, employees with disabilities, veterans, and employees who identify as LGBTQIA. Our employee population at ARCC consists of 15% Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC).
For more information about our college, please visit our website at http://www.anokaramsey.edu.
Benefits Information:
At Minnesota State, we take your well-being and work-life balance seriously. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that features low-cost medical and dental insurance with affordable deductibles, employer-paid life insurance, short- and long-term disability, and pre-tax healthcare and dependent care accounts with a roll-over option. To further support your holistic health, employees also have access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health, legal, and financial counseling. Detailed plan details, rates, and coverage choices can be reviewed directly via the State Employee Group Insurance Program (SEGIP) website.
To support your life outside of work, our package includes 12 paid holidays, generous vacation and sick time, and six weeks of Paid Parental Leave. We also help you secure your financial future with a robust Pension Plan, 457(b) and 403(b) retirement accounts, and various investment options. Furthermore, we invest in your growth by providing dedicated professional development and tuition waivers for both you and your dependents. Please note that specific benefit eligibility and coverage levels may vary depending on the type of position, employee classification, and collective bargaining agreements.
Desired Start Date:
07-20-2026
Position End Date:
11-11-2026
Open Date:
07-20-2026
Close Date:
08-11-2026
Posting Contact Name:
Yusra A Hussain
Posting Contact Email:
rm4350vy@minnstate.edu