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Graduate Lab Assistant Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

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Graduate Lab Assistant information

See Ames, IA salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do graduate lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate lab assistant in Ames, IA is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate lab assistant?

Graduate lab assistants are graduate students who support professors and researchers in academic or research laboratories. Their responsibilities typically include preparing laboratory materials, assisting with experiments, maintaining equipment, and sometimes helping undergraduate students with lab work. They may also collect and analyze data, keep detailed records, and ensure that safety protocols are followed. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in scientific research and laboratory management, which is beneficial for their academic and career development.

What does a graduate lab assistant do?

As a Graduate Lab Assistant, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on and organizational tasks each day. These often include preparing materials and equipment for experiments, assisting with data collection and analysis, maintaining laboratory cleanliness and safety standards, and supporting researchers or instructors with ongoing projects. You may also be responsible for inventory management and occasionally training new students on laboratory protocols. The role offers valuable exposure to advanced lab techniques and fosters close collaboration with faculty and research teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate lab assistant?

To thrive as a Graduate Lab Assistant, you need a solid background in laboratory techniques, scientific research methods, and relevant coursework in your field of study. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data analysis software such as Excel or specialized scientific tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational abilities, and effective communication make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure accurate data collection, maintain lab safety, and support successful research outcomes.

What is the difference between Graduate Lab Assistant vs Research Intern?

AspectGraduate Lab AssistantResearch Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled graduate student, relevant courseworkUndergraduate or graduate student, relevant field of study
Work EnvironmentUniversity labs, academic settingsResearch institutions, labs, or university departments
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research projectsResearch organizations, academic or industry research
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Graduate Lab Assistant and a Research Intern lies in their educational status and scope of work. Graduate Lab Assistants are typically enrolled graduate students working within university labs, focusing on supporting ongoing research. Research Interns may be undergraduate or graduate students gaining practical experience in research settings, often for a limited period. Both roles involve assisting with experiments and data collection but differ mainly in their educational level and specific responsibilities.

Can you get a graduate lab assistant job with no experience?

Graduate lab assistant positions often do not require extensive prior experience, as they typically provide on-the-job training. However, having relevant coursework, basic laboratory skills, or familiarity with scientific tools can improve chances of hiring. Employers may also look for strong organizational skills and the ability to follow safety protocols.

What qualifications do I need to be a graduate lab assistant?

To become a graduate lab assistant, candidates typically need to be enrolled in a relevant graduate program and have a strong background in the subject area, such as biology, chemistry, or engineering. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, data analysis, and familiarity with lab equipment; some positions may also require prior research experience or certifications in safety procedures. Educational requirements usually include maintaining a minimum GPA and meeting any specific program prerequisites.
Graduate Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Lab Assistant job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,195 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Part-Time Temporary Surgical Tech Lab Assistant

Ankeny, IA • On-site

Des Moines Area Community College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Des Moines Area Community Collegeexternal

$32/hr

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Job Title
Part-Time Temporary Surgical Tech Lab Assistant
Campus
Urban Campus/Des Moines, IA
Job Number
26-T65
Employment Date
As soon as possible.
Job Category
Part-time Temporary Staff Positions
Application & Position Information Call
John Hadley at jhadley2@dmacc.edu.
Posting Detail Information
Salary Information
$32.00 per hour.
Job Summary
The surgical technology program lab instruction assistant will perform duties that include competencies and assessments of students in a mock surgical environment. All competencies are assessed within CAAHEP and ARCSTSA standards and best practice guidelines.
Essential Functions
Work with students to assist them in becoming proficient in scrubbing, gowning, and gloving. Students will perform tasks and be assessed in competencies related to setting up sterile surgical procedures with a strong focus on aseptic technique.
Assist in mock surgical procedures in several surgical specialties in operating rooms with instructors performing the surgeon role.
Required Qualifications
Graduate of an education program in surgical technology accredited by a nationally recognized programmatic accreditation agency.
Possess a credential in the field of surgical technology through a national certification program that is accredited by the National Commission on Certifying Agencies (NCCA) e.g., CST.
CPR certification is required with a minimum of basic life saving (BLS).
Minimum total of two years of recent operating room scrub or teaching experience within the last five years.
Provide instruction, supervision, and timely assessments of the student's progress in meeting program requirements.
Knowledge in subject matter as documented by appropriate professional credential(s)/certification(s), education, and experience.
Provide clear communication, constructive criticism, and the ability to create a positive learning environment for student success.
Desired Qualifications
Associate degree with a concentration in surgical technology.
Work Schedule
Lab assistant instructors will sign up for labs that occur within the program course schedule as they are available. Weekly signups are provided by the program's lab coordinator and allow for flexibility.
Posting Date
06/08/2026
Deadline for Submitting Applications
Open Until Filled
Yes
Application Instructions
This Vacancy Requires:
  • A complete DMACC Employment Application in English (personal information,educational history, employment history, and supplemental questions).Incomplete applications and or "See Resume" will not be accepted.
  • Attachment of transcripts to your electronic application (if required).Transcripts must include the applicant's name and degrees conferred.Scans, photos, or unofficial copies are acceptable. Official transcriptswill be collected upon hire (if applicable).

Must be legally eligible to work in the United States without employersponsorship. Individuals with disabilities desiring a reasonableaccommodation in the application process should notify Human Resources at(515) 964-6479 or by emailjobs@dmacc.edu.
*The application form will be used to screen applicants for requiredqualifications and for salary placement of finalist(s). Please includeall relevant work experience.
Quick Link
https://jobs.dmacc.edu/postings/14808

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