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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 ...

Junxion Med Staffing

Travel Cath Lab RN

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Cardiac Cath Lab * Discipline: RN * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week ... assistants, and nurse practitioners in both short-term and permanent roles across a wide range of ...

cchrpmc

Nursing - Medical Asst I

Stout, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

Job Summary The Medical Assistant (MA) works within a multi-disciplinary health care team ... lab coordinators, and nurse educator. * Maintains EHR core competencies as evidenced by:

cchrpmc

Nursing - Medical Asst I

Stout, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

Job Summary The Medical Assistant (MA) works within a multi-disciplinary health care team ... lab coordinators, and nurse educator. * Maintains EHR core competencies as evidenced by:

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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 Aug 17, 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 do lab assistants get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the industry and work environment.

Is it hard to become a lab assistant?

Becoming a lab assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with some knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety protocols. Some positions may prefer or require postsecondary education or certifications in relevant fields, and strong attention to detail and organizational skills are important for success in the role.

What are the duties of a lab assistant?

A lab assistant is responsible for preparing laboratory equipment and samples, maintaining a clean and organized work environment, and assisting scientists or technicians with experiments and data collection. They may also handle inventory management, record keeping, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Proficiency with lab tools and attention to detail are essential for this role.

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 in safety or specific techniques can enhance job prospects.
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 54% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,526 per year, or $20 per hour.

Certified Medical Assistant - Waterloo Family Medicine

UnityPoint Health

Waterloo, IA

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

UnityPoint Clinic -Waterloo

Family Medicine

Full Time; 40 hours per week

$5,000 Sign-on bonus


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.


  • Assist providers and clinical staff with patient rooming, exams, treatments, and minor procedures 
  • Obtain patient history and review of systems; measure and document vital signs and screenings 
  • Accurately document all care in the electronic medical record (EMR) using standardized workflows 
  • Perform specimen collection, including blood draws, and prepare samples for lab analysis as needed 
  • Carry out provider orders within scope of licensure, including administering medications and vaccinations 
  • Manage results, patient follow-ups, and tracking systems to support ongoing care 
  • Schedule referrals and complete required forms, requisitions, and appropriate CPT/ICD-10 coding 
  • Provide patient and family education as directed by the provider 
  • Interpret lab and procedure results within scope and take appropriate next steps 
  • Maintain compliance with CLIA, OSHA, HIPAA, and organizational policies 
  • Participate in team communications and meetings; demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and strong customer service 

Education: 

  • Graduate of an accredited program for Medical Assistants (Certificate, diploma, or Associate’s Degree) required. 

Experience: 

  • Previous clinical experience in a medical office preferred. 

License(s)/Certification(s): 

  • Certified or Registered Medical Assistant through one of the following required: 
    • National Healthcareer Association 
    • American Association of Medical Assistants 
    • National Center for Competency Testing 
    • National Certified Medical Assistant  
    • National Association of Health Professionals 
    • American Registry of Medical Assistants 
    • American Allied Health 
    • American Medical Technologists 
    • Certified Medical Administrative Assistant through the National Healthcareer Association 
  • Certified Basic Life Support through the American Heart Association required within 30 days of hire. 
  • IA/IL Child Abuse Mandatory Reporter Training in state(s) where providing care required within 90 days of hire. 
  • IA/IL Adult Dependent Abuse Mandatory Reporter Training in state(s) where providing Care required within 90 days of hire. 

What UnityPoint Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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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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