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Clinical Lab Assistant Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

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Clinical Lab Assistant information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$13

$25

$69

How much do clinical lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical lab assistant in Waterloo, IA is $25.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $26.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 do clinical lab assistants do?

Clinical lab assistants support laboratory operations by preparing specimens, maintaining lab equipment, and recording test results. They often work under the supervision of medical technologists or laboratory managers and need attention to detail and basic knowledge of laboratory procedures.
More about Clinical Lab Assistant jobs

What job categories do people searching Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Clinical Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Clinical Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Clinical Lab Assistant job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Internship. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,741 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Certified Medical Assistant - Waterloo OB/GYN

UnityPoint Health

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

303rd of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

UnityPoint Clinics

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)

OB/GYN

Waterloo, IA

Full time/Monday to Friday

Are you a passionate CMA looking for a dynamic and supportive clinic to join? Do you want to be part of a team that is committed to delivering high-quality care and making a positive impact in the community? If so, we invite you to join our clinic as we welcome new providers to our team!


At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.  

Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in. Here are just a few:   

  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.   
  • Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.  
  • Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.   

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.  

And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience. 

Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.


  • Assist providers and clinical staff with patient rooming, exams, treatments, and minor procedures 
  • Obtain patient history and review of systems; measure and document vital signs and screenings 
  • Accurately document all care in the electronic medical record (EMR) using standardized workflows 
  • Perform specimen collection, including blood draws, and prepare samples for lab analysis as needed 
  • Carry out provider orders within scope of licensure, including administering medications and vaccinations 
  • Manage results, patient follow-ups, and tracking systems to support ongoing care 
  • Schedule referrals and complete required forms, requisitions, and appropriate CPT/ICD-10 coding 
  • Provide patient and family education as directed by the provider 
  • Interpret lab and procedure results within scope and take appropriate next steps 
  • Maintain compliance with CLIA, OSHA, HIPAA, and organizational policies 
  • Participate in team communications and meetings; demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and strong customer service 

Education: 

  • Graduate of an accredited program for Medical Assistants (Certificate, diploma, or Associate’s Degree) required. 

Experience: 

  • Previous clinical experience in a medical office preferred. 

License(s)/Certification(s): 

  • Certified or Registered Medical Assistant through one of the following required: 
    • National Healthcareer Association 
    • American Association of Medical Assistants 
    • National Center for Competency Testing 
    • National Certified Medical Assistant  
    • National Association of Health Professionals 
    • American Registry of Medical Assistants 
    • American Allied Health 
    • American Medical Technologists 
    • Certified Medical Administrative Assistant through the National Healthcareer Association 
  • Certified Basic Life Support through the American Heart Association required within 30 days of hire. 
  • IA/IL Child Abuse Mandatory Reporter Training in state(s) where providing care required within 90 days of hire. 
  • IA/IL Adult Dependent Abuse Mandatory Reporter Training in state(s) where providing Care required within 90 days of hire. 

What UnityPoint Health employees say

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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995