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Lab Assistant Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Trinity Health

Cardiac Cath Lab Registered Nurse

Waterloo, IA · 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 ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 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.
More about Lab Assistant jobs

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:

Lab Assistant jobs near you
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.

Laboratory Technical Associate-Main Laboratory

Waterloo, IA • On-site

UnityPoint Health
Hospitals • 10K+ employees
Learn more about UnityPoint Healthexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 1 hour ago

UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 366 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Laboratory Technical Associate – Main Lab

UnityPoint Health - Allen 

Shift: Full-time; 445 AM - 115 PM.  Every other weekend, three on call shifts per month and holiday rotation.

Benefits Eligible 

The Lab Technical Associate position assists technical staff in the laboratory in their daily functions.  Duties include collection and processing of lab samples, running and minor maintenance of basic instrumentation, data entry into the Laboratory Information System, inventory control and basic office duties. 

The Lab Technical Associate-Main Laboratory performs these functions primarily in the Main Laboratory.

Qualifies as Testing Personnel under Federal Register Sec 493.15, 493.20 & 493.1423 for waived and moderate complexity testing.


At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.  

Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in. Here are just a few:   

  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.   
  • Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.  
  • Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.   

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.  

And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience. 

Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.


  • Collects and processes samples for the laboratory including blood, urine, cultures (limited) and sendouts.
  • Runs and maintains basic lab instrumentation and testing
  • Assists technologists with duties including but not limited to stocking supplies, washing laboratory dishes, inventory management & follow up on reports
  • Answers incoming phone calls
  • Registers and looks up orders for samples in the Hospital Information System, enters data and orders samples into Laboratory Information system

Education:

  • High school education or equivalent

Licensure/Certification:

  • Valid driver’s license when driving any vehicle for work-related reasons.

Experience:

  • 6 months experience in a clinical laboratory

Other:

  • Must be able to read, write and speak English


What UnityPoint Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995

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