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Crime Lab Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

$38.91 - $43.82/hr

Provides training and orientation to new Lab Assistants. Orients new employees to general ... Qualified applicants with criminal convictions will be considered after an individualized ...

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Crime Lab Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$19

$27

How much do crime lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for crime 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.

Is it easy to get hired as a CSI?

Getting hired as a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) can be competitive and typically requires a background in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field, along with relevant experience or training. Employers often look for strong attention to detail, knowledge of crime scene protocols, and certification in forensic techniques, which can influence the ease of employment. The hiring process may also involve background checks and physical assessments.

What are some common challenges faced by Crime Lab Assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Crime Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of evidence, maintaining strict chain-of-custody protocols, and working under tight deadlines. Attention to detail and organizational skills are crucial to prevent errors that could compromise cases. To address these challenges, assistants typically follow standardized procedures, utilize evidence management software, and participate in ongoing training to stay updated on best practices. Collaboration with forensic scientists and law enforcement officers also helps ensure accuracy and efficiency in laboratory operations.

What qualifications do you need to work in a crime lab?

Crime lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions preferring or requiring an associate's or bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols are also important qualifications.

What does a forensic lab assistant do?

A forensic lab assistant supports crime scene investigations by collecting, preserving, and analyzing physical evidence such as fingerprints, blood samples, and trace materials. They prepare samples for testing, operate laboratory equipment, and document findings to assist forensic scientists in solving cases. Attention to detail, knowledge of lab procedures, and adherence to safety protocols are essential in this role.

What is the difference between Crime Lab Assistant vs Forensic Technician?

AspectCrime Lab AssistantForensic Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require associate's degreeAssociate's or bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, or chemistry
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, crime scenes, law enforcement agenciesLaboratories, crime scenes, fieldwork, law enforcement agencies
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, crime labsCrime labs, forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in crime labsMore specialized, requiring higher education

Crime Lab Assistants typically support forensic work with basic lab tasks and may have less formal education, while Forensic Technicians usually hold higher degrees and perform more complex analyses. Both roles work closely within crime labs and law enforcement, but Forensic Technicians often have more advanced responsibilities.

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

To excel as a Crime Lab Assistant, you typically need a background in forensic science, biology, or chemistry, along with strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence management systems, and safety protocols—sometimes supported by certifications like crime scene technician training—is essential. Excellent organizational skills, the ability to follow strict procedures, and clear written communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure accurate evidence handling, maintain chain of custody, and support the integrity of criminal investigations.

What are Crime Lab Assistants?

Crime Lab Assistants are support professionals who work in forensic laboratories, helping scientists and analysts process evidence related to criminal investigations. Their duties often include preparing and maintaining lab equipment, organizing and cataloging evidence, and assisting with basic laboratory tests under supervision. They ensure that the lab operates smoothly and that evidence is handled with care to maintain its integrity for legal proceedings. Crime Lab Assistants play a crucial role in supporting the work of forensic scientists and law enforcement.

How much does a CSI lab technician make?

A Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) lab technician typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced technicians with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. The role often requires knowledge of forensic analysis tools and laboratory procedures.
Infographic showing various Crime Lab Assistant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 8% 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

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 7 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