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Lab Assistant Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$21/hr

Lab Technician Ankeny, IA 4-month contract, opportunity for extensions Night Shift/3rd Shift 1:00Am ... assist with seed health tests, follow and maintain the ISO Quality Management Standards wear ...

New

Lab Technician

Ames, IA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

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 ...

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$2.2K - $3.0K/wk

LanceSoft is seeking a travel Cath Lab Technologist for a travel job in Des Moines, Iowa ... Assistants, and Certified Nursing Assistants to work in Acute Care Centers, Skilled Nursing ...

Lab Technician- 3rd shift Location: Ankeny, IA Zip Code: 50021 Shift: 3rd shift 1:00Am - 10:00Am M ... assist with seed health tests, follow and maintain the ISO Quality Management Standards wear ...

Lab Technician- 3rd shift Location: Ankeny, IA Zip Code: 50021 Shift: 3rd shift 1:00Am - 10:00Am M ... assist with seed health tests, follow and maintain the ISO Quality Management Standards wear ...

Cleaning/sterilizing glassware, cleaning/maintaining lab equipment, sterilization of labware, handling and decontamination of biohazardous waste, stocking supplies in the lab, making reagents, and ...

... Lab RN to assist our traveler-friendly client. A minimum of 1-2 years of experience is required. Traveling with GetMed Staffing offers the unique opportunity to gain diverse experiences, both ...

Cardiac Cath Lab- Meth * Shift: 7:00AM-5:30PM Monday-Friday. Rotating Scheduled Day Off each week. On-Call Requirements: 1-2 nights per week & every third weekend * Job ID: 185820 Overview 7:00AM-5 ...

Details Client Name Mercy One - Des Moines Job Type Travel Offering Allied Profession Cath Lab Tech ... Assist with the insertion of catheters into the heart, and are responsible for measuring and ...

Showing results 21-40

Lab Assistant information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Des Moines, IA is $19.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $22.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab assistant?

As a laboratory assistant or lab technician, you are responsible for helping scientists conduct experiments in a laboratory environment. You may be asked to prepare, clean, and maintain lab equipment and log readings and results. Your responsibilities may also include performing basic analyses of samples and recording results accurately. Your responsibilities will vary based on the type of lab you work in, but compliance with protocols and commitment to safety and accuracy are critical in any lab.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Assistant, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and often an associate degree or relevant coursework in science. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), standard lab equipment, and proper sample handling techniques is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate results, maintain lab safety standards, and support smooth laboratory operations.

What are some common challenges faced by lab assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks under tight deadlines, maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, and ensuring the accuracy of data collection. To manage these effectively, it's important to stay organized, communicate proactively with supervisors and colleagues, and remain attentive to details when handling samples or preparing equipment. Many labs offer training on safety and procedures, so taking advantage of these resources can help new hires adapt quickly and perform confidently in their roles.

What is the difference between Lab Assistant vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab AssistantMedical Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, healthcare facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with sample collection, prepare specimens, maintain lab equipmentPerform complex tests, analyze samples, report results
Industry UsageCommonly used in healthcare and research settingsPrimarily in medical diagnostics and healthcare

While both roles support laboratory operations, Medical Laboratory Technicians perform more advanced testing and require specialized education. Lab Assistants typically handle basic tasks and support lab staff, making them entry-level positions in healthcare labs.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Pay can also vary based on full-time or part-time status and the complexity of tasks performed.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing samples, maintaining equipment, recording data, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often work under the supervision of scientists or technicians and may need knowledge of lab procedures and basic scientific techniques.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To become a lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require postsecondary education or relevant coursework in science. Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are important. Certifications such as OSHA safety training can also be beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Des Moines, IA?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Des Moines, IA?

For Lab Assistant jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Des Moines, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

What cities near Des Moines, IA are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Des Moines, IA with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,099 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

On Call/Flex Laboratory Assistant - Micro

Eurofins Scientific

Des Moines, IA

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Eurofins rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 181 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Company Description

Eurofins Scientific is an international life sciences company, providing a unique range of analytical testing services to clients across multiple industries, to make life and our environment safer, healthier and more sustainable. From the food you eat, to the water you drink, to the medicines you rely on, Eurofins works with the biggest companies in the world to ensure the products they supply are safe, their ingredients are authentic and labelling is accurate.

Eurofins is the global leader in food, environment, pharmaceutical and cosmetic product testing and in agroscience Contract Research Organisation services. Eurofins is one of the market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, discovery pharmacology, forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an emerging global presence in Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisations. The Group also has a rapidly developing presence in highly specialised and molecular clinical diagnostic testing and in-vitro diagnostic products.

In over just 30 years, Eurofins has grown from one laboratory in Nantes, France to 55,000 staff across a decentralised and entrepreneurial network of 900 laboratories in over 50 countries. Eurofins offers a portfolio of over 200,000 analytical methods to evaluate the safety, identity, composition, authenticity, origin, traceability and purity of biological substances and products.

Job Description

On Call/Flex Laboratory Assistant - flexible hours: Noon - 8pm (M - F) 15-20 hours per week

 1.    Understand and follow Quality System documents relevant to responsibilities, e.g., Quality Manual, SOPs, Methods, and Local Policies.

2.    Adhere to appropriate quality measures, which meet or exceed the standards set by ISO/IEC 17025, government regulatory, and company requirements.

3.    Follow all company guidelines and procedures relevant to assigned duties.

4.    Adhere to all pertinent health, safety, and environmental regulations.

5.    Assist in the daily assaying of samples.  Perform testing from a daily work list.

6.    Set up batches of samples to weigh and weigh samples.

7.    Identify from samples assayed the need for rechecks.

8.    Prepare solutions used in the daily testing of designated samples.

9.    Maintain a neat and accurate record system; keep accurate records of work performed on a daily basis or as needed for quality control tests or regulatory purposes.

10.  Record test data and results for samples in logbook, record book or BookMaster and enter the data or results into eLIMS either manually or through automatic export in a timely and accurate manner.

11.  Maintain a safe and clean laboratory; clean work area and glassware used in analyses, dispose of hazardous wastes according to established procedures; assist others in maintaining a clean, safe work environment.

12.  Identify method/matrix/analytical difficulties and report these together with proposed solutions to supervisor.

13.  Ensure that proprietary methodologies are not disclosed to non-employees except as approved in writing by the Laboratory Manager or appointed designate.

14.  Maintain a perpetual state of readiness and willingness to respond to the queries and needs of clients, staff, and co-workers.

15.  Remain current on technical, industry, and business advancements and trends as suggested by Department Leader or supervisor.

16.  Recommend more accurate or efficient laboratory equipment or procedures.

17.  Maintain cooperative working relationships with all company employees.  Communicate orally and in writing to co-workers.  This includes "intra" and "inter" departmental employees.

18.  Promote the company image through the exercising of sound and ethical business practices as related to the public and our customers.

19.  Other duties, as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and analytical skills.
  • Excellent communication skills. 
  • Responsive, independent problem solver and action oriented

Initial Education Background

  • Basic understanding of  ISO 17025 guidelines.
  • High School diploma with 0-3 years experience.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

  • The employee is required to stand; walk; and use hands to find, handle, and feel objects, tools, or controls, and some repetitive motion. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and distance vision.
Additional Information

On Call/Flex Laboratory Assistant - flexible hours: Noon - 8pm (M - F) 15-20 hours per week

Candidates currently living within a commutable distance of Des Moines, IA are encouraged to apply.

What we offer:

  • Excellent full time benefits including comprehensive medical coverage, dental, and vision options
  • Life and disability insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid vacation and holidays

Eurofins USA Food Testing is a Disabled and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity employer.


What Eurofins employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Eurofins logo

About Eurofins

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Scientific research and development services, biotechnology research and development and environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Leacock, PA, US