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Entry Level Laboratory Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Radiant Systems Inc

Research Associate

Johnston, IA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

We are hiring Research Associate (Entry level) Please let me know if you are interested or anyone ... Responsible for following experimental and laboratory procedures according to agreed upon protocols ...

BCForward

Research Associate

Johnston, IA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level experience in laboratory research. * Experience in media preparation or plant tissue culture. * Familiarity with regulated lab environments and safety protocols.

TekWissen LLC

US- Lab Technician (Entry)

Ankeny, IA · On-site

The ideal Individual will support daily activities in the laboratory by leading general operations, housekeeping, orderliness, and cleanliness of the workspace. * Other duties will include receiving ...

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All JobsLaboratory JobsEntry Level Laboratory JobsEntry Level Laboratory Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Laboratory information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$22

$47

How much do entry level laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level laboratory 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.

How can I start working in an entry level laboratory?

To start working in an entry-level laboratory, obtain a relevant high school diploma or associate degree in a science field such as biology or chemistry. Gaining basic laboratory skills, familiarity with lab equipment, and certifications like OSHA or safety training can improve your chances; internships or volunteer work can also provide valuable experience.

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

AspectEntry Level LaboratoryLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degreeHigh school diploma or associate's degree, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentEducational labs, research facilities, healthcare settingsClinical, research, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research labs, healthcareHospitals, biotech companies, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Laboratory and a Laboratory Technician lies in experience and job scope. Entry Level Laboratory roles are typically for individuals starting their careers with minimal experience, focusing on basic lab tasks. Laboratory Technicians often have similar credentials but may have more hands-on responsibilities and specialized skills. Both roles are essential in various industries like healthcare, research, and manufacturing, and often overlap in entry-level positions.

What is an entry level laboratory job?

Entry level laboratory jobs are positions in scientific labs that require minimal prior experience and often serve as the starting point for careers in laboratory sciences. These roles typically involve tasks such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, operating laboratory equipment, recording data, and maintaining a clean work environment. Entry level lab jobs are found in various industries, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and research institutions. They often require at least a high school diploma or associate degree, though some may prefer or require a bachelor's degree in a science-related field. These jobs provide valuable hands-on experience and can lead to more advanced positions with additional training and education.

What does an entry level laboratory technician do?

In an entry-level laboratory role, your daily tasks often include preparing and labeling samples, conducting routine tests under supervision, maintaining lab equipment, and accurately recording data. You may also be responsible for cleaning and organizing workspaces, as well as adhering to safety protocols. Collaboration with senior technicians and scientists is common, providing valuable opportunities to learn and gain hands-on experience in laboratory techniques.

Is it hard to get a job in an entry level laboratory?

Entry level laboratory positions are generally accessible to candidates with basic science knowledge, a high school diploma or equivalent, and some familiarity with laboratory tools and safety protocols. Competition can vary depending on location and industry demand, but gaining relevant certifications or laboratory experience can improve chances of employment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level laboratory technician?

To succeed as an Entry Level Laboratory Technician, you need attention to detail, foundational knowledge of laboratory procedures, and at least a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with common lab equipment, safety protocols, and basic data entry or laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is typically required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and teamwork in the lab. These skills are crucial for maintaining precise results, supporting scientific research, and upholding safety and quality standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Laboratory jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Laboratory jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Laboratory jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Laboratory jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Laboratory jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Laboratory job openings:
Entry Level Laboratory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Laboratory job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,010 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Entry level laboratory - 2nd shift - all training provided! Component Technician!

LifeServe Blood Center

Johnston, IA • On-site

$18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago

LifeServe Blood Center rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Your Blood. Your Hospital. Your Neighbors.
There's no better way to support your local community than by working at LifeServe Blood Center, an organization driven by the mission to save lives locally. We're all familiar with blood: it's red, it's essential to life, and we all have it. Less commonly known are the many roles that blood plays and its many parts. Each donation can impact up to three lives, but not in its whole blood state. This is where YOU come in! We're looking for a Component Technician to join our amazing team of LifeServers.
As a Component Technician, you will work in our lab manufacturing whole blood donations into transfusable components (red cells, platelets, and plasma), playing a central role in the lifesaving process for patients in our communities. The manufacturing process involves the use of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and equipment, such as centrifuges. Component Technicians are also heavily involved in instrument quality control and maintenance.
Shift:
  • Tuesday through Saturday
  • 2pm - 10:30pm

Compensation:
  • Starting at $18.75/hr
  • Night shift differential of $4.00/hr when working 6pm - 6am
  • Weekend shift differential of $2.00/hr

Our type:
You have a strong attention-to-detail. You navigate fluctuating demands like a pro by way of your excellent communication skills. Your superior ability to multitask is due to your fierce organization skills and your uncanny ability to prioritize a list of tasks. You really want to work in a laboratory setting and love the idea of manufacturing a lifesaving product. You thrive in a high-volume, fast-paced work environment.
Key responsibilities:
  • Process blood components according to established policy and SOP.
  • Perform review of component manufacturing and equipment related documentation and release of quality control results.
  • Perform calibration and maintenance tasks.
  • Identify, troubleshoot, and document problems that may influence the quality or completion of blood manufacturing.
  • Assist with validation of new equipment and manufacturing processes.
  • Perform data entry and navigation within multiple computer programs.

Requirements:
  • High school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Associate's degree or higher preferred.
  • The ability to multitask and set priorities is essential.
  • This position requires use of knowledge and judgement to ensure accuracy of tasks related to quality.
  • Proficiency with computers is a must; experience with MS Office is preferred.

Working conditions:
  • Repetitive tasks and repetitive motions during long periods of standing will occur over the course of the work shift.
  • This position requires work in a variety of environments. The bulk of the work will occur in ambient room temperatures with limited time working in refrigeration or freezing temperatures. Handling of refrigerated and frozen products will occur on a daily basis.
  • Work will occur in areas with ambient noise from equipment and alarms.
  • Holiday work shifts are dependent on the business needs of the department. Team members may work a holiday dependent upon business needs.

Our Benefits Are Just Your Type!
When you're part of a team that saves lives every day, you deserve benefits that have your back.
Part-time team members enjoy:
  • Vision coverage
  • 403(b) retirement plan with up to 4% contribution after a year (and at least 1,000 service hours)
  • Supplemental accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity plans
  • Flexible spending accounts for health, limited-purpose, and dependent care

Full-time team members receive all of that plus:
  • Medical and dental coverage
  • HSA with employer contribution
  • Life and AD&D insurance
  • Supplemental life insurance

LifeServe is proud to support the people who make life-saving moments possible: YOU!
Physical Requirements:
  • Twist/turn
  • Stoop/bend
  • Squat
  • Balance
  • Reach/work above shoulders
  • Use hands/wrists to include fine/simple/gross motor skills and machinery usage
  • Forearm rotations
  • Lift/carry 26-50 lbs.

Offers of employment are contingent on the successful completion of pre-employment, post-offer drug testing and background checks.
LifeServe Blood Center is fully committed to equal employment opportunity. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identification, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation due to a disability at any stage of the employment application process should contact us at careers@lifeservebloodcenter.org.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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