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Environmental Lab Technician Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

LOCATION Ames, IA 50010 (Onsite - 100% Lab Environment) COMPENSATION $20-25 per hour (full benefits ... The Lab Technician will perform laboratory analyses supporting the production, sale, and ...

Lab Technician Ankeny, IA 4-month contract, opportunity for extensions Night Shift/3rd Shift 1:00Am ... multi-cultural environment. Required education is High school diploma or equivalent (GED) and ...

New

Lab Technician

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$35K - $45K/yr

Quality Assurance Lab Technician Role Overview We are seeking a disciplined and safety-conscious ... A 2-year degree in a science discipline (Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science) or equivalent ...

Lab Technician (Night Shift) - Ankeny, IA 4-Month Contract | Through End of Year Pay Rate: $23/hr ... multicultural environment Qualifications * High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required

Lab Technician (Entry) Location: Ankeny, IA, 50021 Duration: 4 Months Job Type: Temporary ... environment are needed. * Being capable of managing multiple tasks, working effectively with more ...

Microbiology Lab Technician

Mason City, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

Maintain the laboratory environment and supplies including inventory of reagents, monitoring and ... Knowledge of lab procedures and techniques. * Knowledge of microbiology, preparation of culture ...

Microbiology Lab Technician

Mason City, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

Maintain the laboratory environment and supplies including inventory of reagents, monitoring and ... Knowledge of lab procedures and techniques. * Knowledge of microbiology, preparation of culture ...

Microbiology Lab Technician

Mason City, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

Maintain the laboratory environment and supplies including inventory of reagents, monitoring and ... Knowledge of lab procedures and techniques. * Knowledge of microbiology, preparation of culture ...

Seasonal Lab Technician, Day Shift

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Seasonal Lab Technician, Day Shift Requisition ID: 33484 Location: Atlantic, IA, USA, 50022 ... High school diploma or equivalent. * 1-3 years of previous experience working in an environmental ...

Seasonal Lab Technician, Night Shift

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Seasonal Lab Technician, Night Shift Requisition ID: 33485 Location: Atlantic, IA, USA, 50022 ... High school diploma or equivalent. * 1-3 years of previous experience working in an environmental ...

Stain Lab Technician

Jesup, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

Job Summary The Lab Technician (Finish) contributes to the overall finishing process. This may ... Duties and Responsibilities Follows all safety rules and contributes to a safe work environment.

Color Lab Technician

Waterloo, IA

$18.75 - $25/hr

Job Summary The Lab Technician contributes to the overall finishing process. This may include all ... Duties and Responsibilities Follows all safety rules and contributes to a safe work environment.

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Environmental Lab Technician information

See Iowa salary details

$14

$26

$45

How much do environmental lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for environmental lab technician in Iowa is $26.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an environmental lab technician do?

An Environmental Lab Technician is responsible for collecting, preparing, and analyzing environmental samples such as water, soil, and air to detect pollutants and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. They operate laboratory equipment, record test results, and maintain accurate documentation. Their work supports environmental scientists and helps industries and government agencies monitor and protect the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an environmental lab technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Environmental Lab Technician, you need a solid grounding in chemistry, biology, or environmental science, often supported by an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instruments such as spectrometers, chromatographs, and relevant data analysis software, as well as knowledge of safety and quality control standards, is crucial. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork help ensure accurate results and smooth lab operations. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining high standards, ensuring regulatory compliance, and delivering reliable data for environmental monitoring and decision-making.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an environmental lab technician?

As an Environmental Lab Technician, you can expect to spend your days collecting and preparing samples (such as water, soil, or air), operating laboratory instruments, recording and analyzing data, and ensuring all testing procedures comply with safety and quality standards. You’ll also be responsible for maintaining accurate records, troubleshooting equipment issues, and sometimes assisting with fieldwork. Collaboration with scientists, engineers, and other lab staff is common, as many projects require teamwork to interpret results and provide timely, reliable data for environmental assessments.

What is the difference between Environmental Lab Technician vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectEnvironmental Lab TechnicianEnvironmental Scientist
CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certificationBachelor's or higher degree in environmental science or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field sampling sitesResearch facilities, field sites, offices
Job FocusConducting tests, analyzing samples, supporting data collectionDesigning studies, interpreting data, developing environmental policies

Environmental Lab Technicians primarily perform laboratory tests and sample analysis, supporting environmental assessments. Environmental Scientists typically engage in broader research, data interpretation, and policy development. Both roles are essential in environmental work but differ in scope and educational requirements.

What degree do you need to be an environmental lab technician?

Environmental lab technicians typically need at least an associate degree in environmental science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Some positions may require a bachelor's degree, especially for advanced roles or specialized testing, along with familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols.

What job categories do people searching Environmental Lab Technician jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Environmental Lab Technician jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Environmental Lab Technician job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,825 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Lab Technician

Ames, IA

West Coast Logistics
11 - 50 employees

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

CLIENT HIGHLIGHT
The Client you will be working for is a nationally recognized Infrastructure and Energy Services company supporting renewable energy and utility-scale projects across the United States. This opportunity will provide exposure to large-scale energy and construction operations while supporting senior leadership in a fast-paced environment.

LOCATION
Ames, IA 50010 (Onsite – 100% Lab Environment)

COMPENSATION
 $20-25 per hour (full benefits offered)

SCHEDULE
Monday – Friday
 5/40 Schedule (Standard 40-hour work week)
 100% onsite

CONTRACT TERM
1.5 years, 5/4/26-12/31/27  with strong likelihood of extension

POSITION OVERVIEW – Lab Technician I
The Lab Technician will perform laboratory analyses supporting the production, sale, and distribution of renewable fuel products. This role requires strong attention to detail, technical aptitude, and a commitment to safety and data integrity. The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a fast-paced lab environment and experienced with analytical testing methods and instrumentation.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Laboratory Testing (80%)
• Perform standard and nonstandard analytical testing using wet chemistry, combustion/elemental methods, and gas chromatography (GC)
 • Execute all phases of sample testing including receipt, preparation, analysis, data entry, and disposal
 • Operate and monitor laboratory instruments (e.g., GC, ICP-OES) to ensure accurate and compliant performance
 • Review, interpret, and validate analytical data using quality control and statistical tools
 • Monitor instrument performance in alignment with Statistical Quality Control (SQC) standards and troubleshoot issues
 • Communicate analytical results and technical findings to internal stakeholders; prepare reports as needed
Laboratory Upkeep and Maintenance (10%)
• Monitor inventory of chemicals, gases, and lab supplies; initiate reorders as needed
 • Manage laboratory waste in accordance with established procedures
 • Maintain cleanliness and organization of lab workspaces
 • Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and performance checks on lab equipment
Documentation, Safety, and Records Management (10%)
• Follow all safety protocols and Operational Excellence standards; support continuous safety improvements
 • Maintain accurate records of methods, data, and analyses in lab notebooks and electronic systems
 • Prepare and update SOPs, technical documents, and reports
 • Ensure confidentiality and proper handling of sensitive data
• Perform additional duties as assigned

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS
• 1+ years of analytical laboratory experience (wet chemistry, GC, elemental analysis, quality control)
 • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, SharePoint, etc.)
 • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
 • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
 • Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
 • Interest in renewable fuels or energy sector preferred

EDUCATION
• Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, or related STEM field

INTERVIEW PROCESS
• Virtual first-round panel interview
 • In-person second-round panel interview (onsite)