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Entry Level Lab Tech Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Bondurant Animal Clinic

$19 - $22/hr

Animal restraint, triage of incoming patients, collection and analysis of lab samples, diagnostic ... A Registered Veterinary Technician with an active license required. * Entry-level RVTs and new grad ...

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Entry Level Lab Tech information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$22

$47

How much do entry level lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab tech in Iowa is $22.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $24.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level lab tech do?

An Entry Level Lab Tech, also known as a laboratory technician, assists scientists and researchers by preparing and processing samples, maintaining lab equipment, and recording data accurately. Their duties often include measuring chemicals, conducting basic experiments, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed at all times. This role is essential for keeping the laboratory running smoothly and supporting more advanced research work. Entry level positions typically require attention to detail, good organizational skills, and at least an associate degree in a science-related field.

What kind of training and mentorship can I expect as an entry level lab tech?

As an entry level lab tech, you can typically expect a combination of hands-on training and supervision from experienced technicians or lab managers. Many labs provide structured onboarding processes, including safety protocols, equipment handling, and standard operating procedures. Mentorship often comes through shadowing senior staff and regular feedback sessions, which help you build confidence in your techniques and understand quality standards. Collaboration with other team members is common, and asking questions is encouraged to ensure accuracy and adherence to lab protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level lab tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Lab Tech, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and a relevant science background, often supported by an associate degree or equivalent coursework. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry software, and proper sample handling is typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help ensure accuracy and teamwork. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining reliable results and supporting smooth lab operations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Lab Tech vs Laboratory Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Lab TechLaboratory Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; certifications varyHigh school diploma; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labsHospitals, clinics, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesPerforming tests, preparing samples, recording dataAssisting with sample preparation, cleaning, and equipment setup

The Entry Level Lab Tech and Laboratory Assistant roles often overlap in work environment and basic responsibilities. However, Entry Level Lab Techs typically perform more technical testing and data analysis, requiring some formal education or certification, whereas Laboratory Assistants focus on supporting tasks and sample handling. Both roles serve essential functions in laboratory settings, with the Lab Tech generally taking on more technical duties.

How to become an entry level lab tech with no experience?

To become an entry-level lab tech with no experience, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and complete relevant coursework in biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, volunteering, or certifications such as OSHA or CLT can improve your chances; familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols is also beneficial.

What is the starting pay for an entry level lab tech?

The starting pay for an entry-level lab technician typically ranges from $12 to $20 per hour, depending on the location, industry, and required certifications. Many entry-level positions also offer benefits such as training in laboratory equipment and safety protocols.

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

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

Entry Level Lab Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Tech job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,010 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Medical Assistant I-Phlebotomist

UnityPoint Health

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$16.97/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

269th of 891 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview
Medical Assistant I/Phlebotomist
UnityPoint Health - Allen
Shift: Full-time and part-time positions available; all shifts; every other weekend, holiday rotation, and 3 on-call shifts per month required
Benefits Eligible
This is a great entry-level opportunity to train and work in the healthcare field!
The Medical Assistant I Phlebotomist, under the direction of the Manager-Compliance/ED Lab/Phlebotomy, is responsible for collection of blood samples through phlebotomy (blood collection) techniques, including vacutainer, syringe, winged infusion set and capillary collections. All phlebotomists are expected to assist with collections from outpatients, inpatients as well as stat nursing home patients and any other patient types supported by UnityPoint Health.
Phlebotomists also assist in the collection of other specimens such as urines for analysis and urines for drug screens.
Phlebotomists should possess good clerical and computer skills to support the Laboratory department.
Why UnityPoint Health?
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.
Responsibilities
  • Learn and understand basic techniques of phlebotomy and specimen collection.
  • Perform phlebotomy and specimen collection for inpatients, outpatients and nursing home patients
  • Learn and understand collection of urine drug screens for occupational and medical collections
  • Assists technologists with duties including but not limited to stocking supplies, washing laboratory dishes, inventory management & follow up on reports
  • After competent, assist in training new staff in phlebotomy
  • Enters data and orders samples into Laboratory Information system
  • Navigates the Hospital Information system as required for patient care
  • Answers incoming phone calls
  • Other tasks as assigned

Qualifications
Education:
  • High school diploma preferred

License/Certification:
  • Valid driver's license required

Other:
  • Must be able to read, write and speak English
  • Must possess basic computer skills and knowledge using word processing, spreadsheet, email and web browser
  • May require travel to area nursing home facilities

What UnityPoint Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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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

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