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Clinical Lab Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Chemistry Lab Assistant

Coralville, IA

$19.50 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... the lab Skills Chemical, Chemistry, Laboratory, Chemical handling, Manufacturing process, Quality control Top Skills Details Chemical,Chemistry,Laboratory Additional Skills & Qualifications ...

New

Training Preferred: Medical Assistant, Certified Phlebotomist, or other healthcare studies ... 000 physicians and clinicians across 25 states. Because we serve diverse populations, our ...

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Clinical Lab Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$24

$66

How much do clinical lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical lab assistant in Iowa is $24.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $25.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical lab assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clinical Lab Assistant, you need a strong background in biology or medical laboratory technology, attention to detail, and typically a certificate or associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), specimen processing equipment, and adherence to safety protocols is essential. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in a fast-paced, accuracy-driven environment. These skills ensure precise sample handling, reliable test results, and smooth laboratory operations, which are critical for patient diagnosis and care.

What is the difference between Clinical Lab Assistant vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectClinical Lab AssistantMedical Laboratory Technician
CertificationsNone required, but certification can enhance prospectsCertification often preferred or required (e.g., ASCP)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with specimen collection, prepare samples, maintain lab equipmentPerform tests, analyze samples, record results
EducationHigh school diploma or equivalentPost-secondary education (associate degree)

While both roles support laboratory operations, Clinical Lab Assistants mainly assist with specimen handling and preparation, whereas Medical Laboratory Technicians perform detailed testing and analysis. The roles often overlap in work environment and required credentials, but Medical Laboratory Technicians typically have more advanced training and responsibilities.

What is a clinical lab assistant?

A clinical lab assistant works in a medical lab, helping senior researchers to assess, analyze, and discover diseases and other medical issues. The duties of these technicians include inspecting specimens and running routine and specialized tests. They also maintain records, which are used to make reports to doctors or patients. Qualifications for this career include a bachelor’s degree in biology, medical sciences, or a related field, as well as experience or training in a lab setting. Depending on state laws, clinical lab assistants may need certification. Other skills include attention to detail and strong written and verbal communication.

What are some common challenges faced by clinical lab assistants, and how can they be managed?

Clinical Lab Assistants often work in fast-paced environments where attention to detail is critical, especially when handling multiple samples and processing tests under time constraints. Managing workload efficiently and maintaining accurate records are essential to avoid errors. Communication with laboratory technologists and other healthcare professionals is also key, as it ensures smooth workflow and timely delivery of results. Staying organized, following strict protocols, and proactively seeking clarification when uncertain can help manage these challenges effectively.
More about Clinical Lab Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Lab jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Clinical Lab jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Clinical Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Clinical Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Clinical Lab Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,191 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist FT Nights

Trinity Health

Mason City, IA • On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Trinity Health rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 354 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

570th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Employment Type:Full timeShift:Night ShiftDescription:At MercyOne, health care is more than just a doctor's visit or a place to go when you're in need of medical attention. Our Mission is based on improving the health of our communities - that means not only when you are sick but keeping you well.
MercyOne North Iowa is the largest provider of health care services in our region, and we are proudly the largest employer in Cerro Gordo County. Our hospital is a private, not-for-profit health care center, licensed for 346 beds, which serves more than 400,000 inpatients and outpatients each year. In addition, MercyOne North Iowa is a teaching institution. We conduct a Family Medicine Residency, Internal Medicine Residency, Cardiology Fellowship, Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship, PGY1 Pharmacy Residency and a School of Radiologic Technology. MercyOne North Iowa is a clinical training site for approximately 500 students from 127 different colleges enrolled in programs for medical laboratory, nursing, paramedic, rehabilitation, medical assistants, pastoral services, physicians and many other medical fields.

Join the MercyOne Family! We are looking to hire a Lab Assistant.

As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you will support a variety of laboratory departments by assisting technical staff in the collection, processing, analysis, and reporting of laboratory tests necessary for patient diagnosis and treatment. The role requires the skills needed to ensure specimens, patient information, and testing workflows are handled accurately and efficiently. By contributing to reliable test processes and smooth laboratory operations, this position helps maintain timely turnaround, data integrity, and compliance with quality and safety standards.

  • Performs venipunctures, finger sticks, and heel sticks appropriate to patient age (neonates through geriatric adults) and ensures proper specimen collection according to laboratory policy.
  • Accepts specimens and requisitions from internal and external customers and manages addon orders and pending lists in accordance with laboratory procedures.
  • Identifies patients and specimens using two unique patient identifiers and accurately labels specimen containers to ensure correct identification.
  • Registers and logs specimens in the Laboratory Information System (LIS), evaluates specimen adequacy and acceptability, and scans required documentation into the patient record.
  • Performs specimen processing such as proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, slide preparation, special handling, and required documentation in accordance with laboratory protocols.
  • Assists in resolving problematic patient specimens and test orders in collaboration with laboratory staff and clients.
  • Follows safety, infection control, and chemicalhandling procedures and supports efficient workflow practices that promote accurate testing, timely turnaround, and productivity expectations.
  • Operates laboratory information systems proficiently to support accurate data entry and workflow management.
  • Contributes to general laboratory operations by restocking supplies, participating in peer teaching, and engaging in department or hospital committees and projects as assigned.

Schedule:

  • Overnight Shift: Monday-Thursday 2100-630. Some holidays.

General Requirements:

  • Laboratory experience and knowledge of medical terminology preferred.
  • Strong computer skills with the ability to learn new systems and tools quickly.
  • Must be comfortable operating in a collaborative, shared leadership environment.
  • Must possess a personal presence that is characterized by a sense of honesty, integrity, and caring, with the ability to inspire and motivate others to promote the philosophy, mission, vision, goals, and values of Trinity Health and MercyOne.

Education:

  • High school diploma or GED required.

Colleagues of MercyOne Health System enjoy competitive compensation with a full benefits package and opportunity for growth throughout the system!

Visit MercyOne Careers to learn more about the benefits, culture, and career development opportunities available to you at MercyOne Health System circle of care.

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.


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About Trinity Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Trinity Health Ann Arbor is a 537 -bed teaching hospital located on 340 acre campus. Recognized by IBM Watson as a Top 100 Hospital and #1 Teaching Hospital, Trinity Health Ann Arbor has been a leading health care provider for more than 100 years. Trinity Health has received numerous local and national awards in recognition of our leadership, quality outcomes, and clinical excellence.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Livonia, MI, US