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Lab Assistant Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Travel Cath Lab RN

Waterloo, IA ยท On-site

$2.0K - $2.3K/wk

Travel Cath Lab RN Company: Fusion Medical Staffing Location: Facility in Waterloo, Iowa Job ... * Assist physicians during procedures, including the placement of catheters, wires, balloons ...

Cardiac Cath Lab Registered Nurse

Waterloo, IA ยท On-site

$2.4K - $3.3K/wk

Our nurses assist with diagnostic and interventional procedures performed in the Cath Lab as well as cross training into the EP lab. What you will Do: Assess, plan, implement and evaluate care of ...

Showing results 21-40

Lab Assistant information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Waterloo, IA is $19.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.74 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 Waterloo, IA?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,526 per year, or $20 per hour.

Local Contract Cath Lab RN

Stability Healthcare

Waterloo, IA โ€ข On-site

Contractor

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Stability Healthcare is seeking a local contract nurse RN Cardiac Cath Lab for a local contract nursing job in Waterloo, Iowa.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: Cardiac Cath Lab
  • Discipline: RN
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 8 hours, days
  • Employment Type: Local Contract

Stability Healthcare is looking for a Cath Lab RN contract position in Waterloo, IA. Cath lab nurses care for patients while they are undergoing different procedures in a cath lab. Nurses who work in the cardiac catheterization lab (CCL) will assist the doctor in performing interventional procedures like cardiac catheterizations, valvuloplasties, and angioplasties.

*$600 travel bonus *Day 1 health insurance with United Healthcare *PTO plan -- start accruing on day 1, use during contract or cash out at the end! *Guaranteed stipend if facility calls you off *Extra hour bonus -- earn an additional hourly bonus for working over your weekly contracted hours

Stability Job ID #L-834792. Pay package is based on 8 hour shifts and 40 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: Cath Lab

About Stability Healthcare

Stability Healthcare was founded in 2009, with the mission of becoming the best Travel Nursing Agency in California. We have been rated one of the top travel nursing agencies and offer our nurses the highest paying travel nursing jobs available. We have access to the best travel assignments from 1000โ€™s of facilities.

You can start the year off in sunny California, spend the Spring in the Colorado Rockies, enjoy the Summer in the Mid-West, experience the change of seasons in Boston and New York, and hit the beaches of Florida in the winter. Our Nurses work in the best hospitals and health systems in the country.

Benefits
  • Guaranteed Hours
  • Benefits start day 1

Stability Healthcare logo

About Stability Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Stability Healthcare was founded in 2009, with the mission of becoming the best Travel Nursing Agency in California. We have been rated one of the top travel nursing agencies and offer our nurses the highest paying travel nursing jobs available. We have access to the best travel assignments from 1000's of facilities. You can start the year off in sunny California, spend the Spring in the Colorado Rockies, enjoy the Summer in the Mid-West, experience the change of seasons in Boston and New York, and hit the beaches of Florida in the winter. Our Nurses work in the best hospitals and health systems in the country.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2009