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Crime Lab Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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How much do crime lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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.

What is a crime lab assistant?

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.

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 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 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.

How to become a crime lab assistant?

To become a crime lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring postsecondary education in criminal justice, biology, or chemistry. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow protocols; some roles may require certification or training in forensic techniques. On-the-job training is common, and a background check is usually required due to the sensitive nature of the work.

What credentials do you need to work in a crime lab assistant?

To work as a crime lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions prefer or require postsecondary education such as an associate's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow strict protocols; certifications are not usually mandatory but can enhance prospects.

What does a crime lab assistant do?

A crime lab assistant supports forensic investigations by collecting, preserving, and analyzing evidence such as fingerprints, blood samples, and physical items. They often operate laboratory equipment, maintain detailed records, and follow safety protocols to ensure evidence integrity and assist forensic scientists in solving crimes.
Crime Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Crime Lab Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 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.

Medical Lab Technician 3rd Shift - North Liberty Campus

University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 hours ago

University Of Iowa Health Care rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Description
The Department of Pathology-Medical Center North Liberty is seeking a Medical Lab Technician to provide moderately and highly complex clinical lab testing and analysis on biological specimens to provide information used in the diagnosis, prevention or treatment of disease. Will use a variety of procedures that may involve numerous detailed tests and techniques that require the use of professional judgment. This position is 100% time. Working hours will be Monday-Friday, 3rd shift (2230-0700 with rotating holidays and weekends as needed).
Qualified candidates may be eligible for a sign-on incentive of $5,000 based on years of experience! (Current UI employees are not eligible for incentive)
  • Perform quantitative and qualitative analysis for all levels of testing complexity on laboratory clinical and research biological specimens such as blood, tissue and body fluids.
  • Provide information to health care provider regarding test methodology and interpretation. Evaluate test results and provide support to Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS).
  • Investigate quality assurance issues involving patient samples.
  • Recommend corrective action for quality assurance.
  • Calibrate, conduct routine maintenance and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation.
  • Seek technical direction from the MLS with specific instrumentation problems.
  • Assist in reagent comparisons, evaluate results and recommend changes to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
  • Participate in evaluation of equipment and recommend products for acquisition.
  • Maintain inventory and orders supplies as needed.
  • Comply with applicable regulatory and accreditation requirements of the laboratory section.
  • Perform, record and review daily quality control associated with assigned testing.
  • Document and report variances.
  • Participate in the Quality Assurance program within the section. Identify opportunities for improvement for improvement and make recommendations for resolution of identified problems/errors.
  • May assist with writing and revising laboratory procedures according to NCCLS guidelines.
  • Assist in a positive and professional manner with bench training for the Clinical Lab Sciences Training Program within the section.
  • Maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students and the public.

Pay grade: 4
SEIU Pay Plan | University Human Resources - The University of Iowa
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in a chemical, biological, clinical laboratory science, or medical technology program from an accredited institution, or
  • Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) or eligible from American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or National Credentialing Agency (NCA), or
  • Successfully completed an official US military medical laboratory procedures training course of at least 50 weeks duration and have held the military enlisted occupational specialty of Medical Laboratory Specialist (Laboratory Technician) is required.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.

Desirable Qualifications:
  • Certification from American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or National Credentialing Agency (NCA) as a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) is highly desirable.
  • Previous experience in a laboratory performing moderate and/or high complexity testing in blood baking, chemistry, hematology, and/or microbiology, which may include program training experience, is highly desired.

Position and Application details:
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as required to the submission:
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended.
Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. For additional questions, please contact michael-lynch-2@uiowa.edu.

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