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Entry Level Lab Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Software Test Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $110K/yr

We are seeking a growth-oriented entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of ... Support testing activities in lab and real-world environments, including bench, simulator, and ...

Elon University

Admissions Counselor

Elon, IA

$35K - $48K/yr

Immediate eligibility for health, dental and vision insurance, along with free acute care and lab ... experience: Entry Level Position Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Ability to communicate ...

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All JobsLab JobsEntry Level Lab JobsEntry Level Lab Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Lab information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$22

$47

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab 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.

Will AI replace lab technician?

AI technology is increasingly used to assist lab technicians by automating routine tasks such as data analysis and sample processing. However, lab technicians are essential for overseeing experiments, maintaining equipment, and applying critical thinking, making complete replacement unlikely in the near future.

What is an entry level lab job?

An entry level lab job typically refers to a position in a laboratory setting that requires minimal prior experience or specialized education beyond a high school diploma or associate degree. Employees in these roles assist with basic laboratory tasks such as preparing samples, performing routine tests, maintaining equipment, and recording data under the supervision of more experienced staff. These positions are often a starting point for a career in science, healthcare, or research, providing valuable hands-on experience and exposure to laboratory protocols and safety procedures.

What is the lowest salary for a lab tech?

The lowest salary for an entry-level lab technician typically starts around $30,000 to $35,000 per year, depending on location and employer. Salaries can increase with experience, certifications, and specialized skills such as proficiency with laboratory equipment or data analysis tools.

What jobs let you work in a lab?

Entry-level lab jobs include laboratory technician, research assistant, and lab aide. These roles typically require basic knowledge of lab equipment, safety procedures, and sometimes a relevant certification or degree in science or a related field. They involve tasks such as sample preparation, data recording, and assisting with experiments in scientific or medical laboratories.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level lab technicians, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level lab technicians often face challenges such as adjusting to strict safety protocols, managing multiple tasks efficiently, and becoming familiar with laboratory equipment and procedures. To overcome these hurdles, it's important to actively participate in training sessions, ask questions when unsure, and maintain a well-organized workspace. Building strong communication with senior technicians and supervisors can also help in gaining confidence and improving technical skills over time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Lab Technician, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and typically an associate degree or relevant certification in a scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry systems, and software like LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills are vital for ensuring accurate results, maintaining safety standards, and supporting efficient laboratory operations.

What qualification do I need to work in a lab?

Entry level lab positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring or requiring post-secondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in a relevant field like biology, chemistry, or health sciences. Basic skills in laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are also important; certifications like OSHA safety training can be beneficial.

What is the difference between Entry Level Lab vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectEntry Level LabLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degreeAssociate's degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentEducational, research, or clinical labsMedical, industrial, or research labs
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research facilitiesHospitals, biotech companies, industrial labs
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Lab vs Laboratory Technician

Entry Level Lab roles typically require basic education and involve assisting in lab tasks within educational or research settings. Laboratory Technicians often have similar credentials but may perform more specialized or technical duties in medical or industrial labs. Both roles serve as foundational positions in laboratory environments, with Laboratory Technicians generally having more hands-on responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Lab jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:
Entry Level Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,010 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Registered Veterinary Technician

Registered Veterinary Technician

Newton Animal Clinic

Newton, IA • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 hours ago

Job description

Company Description

Newton Animal Clinic is a well-established, progressive, fast paced multi-doctor general small animal practices located in Newton, Iowa with a sister clinic in Bondurant, Iowa. We offer many services to provide the best comprehensive care to our patients including Preventative Care, Surgery, Urgent Care, High Speed Dentistry, In-House Diagnostics, Digital full body and dental radiology, Endoscopy and Ultrasonography, Medical and/or Vacation Boarding. We are proud to say that both of our locations are AAHA certified hospitals!

Our hours of operation are:

  • Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Sat: Open the First, Third, and Fifth Saturdays of the month from 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Sun: Closed

To learn more about us, click here!

Job Description

Job duties include, but are not limited to:

Animal restraint, triage of incoming patients, collection and analysis of lab samples, diagnostic imaging, management and nursing care of medical and hospitalized cases with varying degrees of stability, administration of medications, effective communication of treatment plans with clients, surgical preparation and assistance, and anesthetic management.

Must be able to withstand unpleasant odors and noises. May be exposed to bites, scratches, animal waste and potentially contagious diseases.

Whether you’re looking to just be a master of your role or trying to grow into that next career move, you’ll have opportunities through a variety of virtual and hands on, interactive training and continuing development.

Qualifications

We’re Looking For:

  • A Registered Veterinary Technician with an active license required.
    • Entry-level RVTs and new grad technicians are welcome to apply, we are happy to teach and train!
  • Consistent punctuality and reliability in adherence to scheduled shifts.
  • Availability to work some Saturday morning shifts.
  • Excellent client communication and medical record management skills.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of veterinary procedures, preventative care, and hospital operations.
  • Expertise in safe and low-stress animal restraint techniques.
  • Proficiency in various sample collection methods, including blood, urine, fecal, and skin specimens.
  • Experience in radiographic positioning and image capture, with additional skills in dental radiography being a plus.
  • Experience in anesthesia administration and surgical monitoring.
  • Commitment to professional ethics and continuous learning.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with exposure to animal-related hazards.

The ideal candidate will possess a combination of technical expertise and unwavering commitment to animal welfare in a dynamic veterinary setting.


Additional Information

Pay Range: $19 - $22/hr depending on experience level

We offer our staff:

  • Comprehensive Benefits (health, dental, vision, liability, 401k & 401K matching program, life & supplemental insurance, HSA, & FSA) 
  • Employee Assistance Program 
  • Paid Vacation and Sick Time for ALL Employees 
  • Paid Bereavement Program 
  • Paid Parental Leave Program  
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Scrub Allowance and Employee Personal Pet Discounts
  • Tuition Assistance Program 
  • Access to a CVA/CVT/CVPM Partnership through Penn Foster 
  • Career Development Opportunities 
  • Referral Bonus Program for most positions! 
  • Additional Benefits May Also Be Available (i.e. Holiday Pay, Bonuses, etc.) 

Hiring eligibility may be contingent to a candidate authorizing and completing a satisfactory background check. 

*Note – some benefits may only be available to or vary slightly for full time employment status vs part time status.

For additional details including our full equal opportunity statement, texting/outreach communication authorization, physical requirements of the job and more, please visit: https://allianceanimal.com/additionaljobdescriptiondetails/

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