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

Clinic LPN or CMA - ENT Clinic

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $24/hr

Perform clinical tasks within scope such as administering medications and vaccines, collecting lab ... Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) - accredited program with certification (AAMA, NCCT, AMT, NHA ...

Clinic LPN or CMA - ENT Clinic

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $24/hr

Perform clinical tasks within scope such as administering medications and vaccines, collecting lab ... Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) - accredited program with certification (AAMA, NCCT, AMT, NHA ...

... record * Assist providers with clinical procedures and patient care within scope of training and licensure * Perform lab-related tasks and support symptom-based clinical workflows as directed

... record * Assist providers with clinical procedures and patient care within scope of training and licensure * Perform lab-related tasks and support symptom-based clinical workflows as directed

... record * Assist providers with clinical procedures and patient care within scope of training and licensure * Perform lab-related tasks and support symptom-based clinical workflows as directed

Showing results 41-60

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.

Medical Lab Technician MLT

Trinityhealth

Cedar Falls, IA • On-site

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

572nd of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Employment Type:Full timeShift:Evening ShiftDescription:

Performs clinical testing of laboratory specimens to provide accurate and reliable data for clinical assessment of patients. Adheres to MercyOne's performance expectations and performs all defined services and other related duties in accordance with the Mission, Vision and Values of MercyOne.

Obtains proper specimens for testing.

  • Verifies patient identification.
  • Obtains correct specimen with minimal trauma and correctly labels specimen per laboratory guidelines.
  • Correctly processes specimen for testing.

Performs clinical testing of laboratory specimens and reviews data for clinical correlation.

  • Verifies identification of specimen.
  • Performs testing on appropriate analyzer when applicable.
  • Performs non-analyzer testing per laboratory protocol.
  • Uses knowledge of body chemistry to review data for clinical correlation.
  • Informs customer promptly (physician, nursing staff) of any critical values and documents.
  • Results testing in computer system.
  • Reviews all computer print-outs for accuracy.

Performs quality control testing on all analyzers and analytes and interprets results.

  • Determines proper quality control specimens to be run.
  • Checks all quality control specimens for dating and storage.
  • Performs testing on quality control specimens per laboratory protocol.
  • Reviews data to judge proper performance of instruments and reagents.
  • Uses data for troubleshooting when needed.
  • Logs all QC data per laboratory specifications.

Troubleshoots instrumentation and assays.

  • Uses quality control data to assess proper functioning of instruments and reagents.
  • Identifies source of problem (instrument or reagent).
  • Consults operator's manual for troubleshooting instructions.
  • Follows manufacturer's guidelines for specific troubleshooting procedures.
  • Consults manufacturer's hotline if unable to resolve.
  • Documents all procedures used to resolve problems.
  • Collects, analyzes, interprets and applies age-specific data.
  • Performs tasks/procedures, uses equipment in an age appropriate manner.
  • Communicates and works with others in an age appropriate manner.

Adheres to all safety, infection control and colleague health policies and procedures.

  • Attends required safety programs.
  • Appropriately and consistently uses the personal protective equipment required of the job.
  • Knows and can demonstrate departmental emergency procedures for fire, disaster and other emergency situations.
  • Reports and removes unsafe equipment/furniture.
  • Asks for assistance when needed to assure safety for all involved.
  • Maintains a safe working environment and practices safe working habits.

Schedule: Full Time 2nd shift. Occasionally covers 3rd shift.

General Requirements:

  • Associate degree: Medical Laboratory Technician program. Minimum of 6 months laboratory experience preferred.
  • ASCP eligible and successfully pass certification exam within 6 months of hire or certified Medical Laboratory Technician by ASCP or AMT.
  • Mandatory Reporter

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