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Lab Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

BCForward

Research Associate

Johnston, IA · On-site

$24 - $25/hr

Research Associate Location: Johnston IA Duration: Contract - 11 months Have strong experience in ... Clean and maintain lab equipment on a routine schedule. * Manage chemical inventory and supplies.

Trinityhealth

Cath Lab Tech

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$2.2K - $3.0K/wk

Transport patients to and from the cath lab. May apply manual pressure to puncture site to obtain ... Associate's degree in paramedic, or Allied Health Profession) Two years of related experience ...

Trinity Health

Cath Lab Tech

Waterloo, IA

$2.2K - $3.0K/wk

Transport patients to and from the cath lab. May apply manual pressure to puncture site to obtain ... Associate's degree in paramedic, or Allied Health Profession) Two years of related experience ...

Trinity Health

Cath Lab Tech

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$2.2K - $3.0K/wk

Transport patients to and from the cath lab. May apply manual pressure to puncture site to obtain ... or Associate's degree in paramedic, or Allied Health Profession) • Two years of related ...

Thedacare

Cath Lab Supervisor

Manchester, IA · On-site

... lab and specials department across multiple sites and locations. The Supervisor for Invasive ... for associates, securing replacements for sick calls, coordination of orientation for new ...

Iff

QA Lab Analyst

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field * 1-3 ... Exposure to large-scale industrial processes and advanced lab techniques * Strong focus on safety ...

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All JobsLab Associate JobsLab Associate Jobs in Iowa

Lab Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$21

$32

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Iowa is $21.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $23.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lab Associate, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and typically a degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), standard lab equipment, and relevant safety certifications is often required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe lab practices, and efficient support for scientific research or clinical testing.

How much does a lab assistant earn?

Lab assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 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 salaries.

What are Lab Associates?

Lab Associates are professionals who assist in the daily operations of laboratories by performing tasks such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, maintaining equipment, and recording data. They typically work under the supervision of scientists or lab managers and help ensure that laboratory procedures are followed safely and accurately. Lab Associates play a crucial role in supporting research and development, quality control, or diagnostic testing in fields like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and academia. Their responsibilities may vary depending on the specific lab setting and industry.

Do you need qualifications to be a lab assistant?

Lab associates typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or relevant certifications. Strong attention to detail, basic laboratory skills, and familiarity with lab equipment are also important for the role.

What is the difference between Lab Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; certifications varyAssociate degree or relevant certification; similar educational background
Work EnvironmentHospitals, research labs, clinicsMedical labs, research facilities, industrial labs
Job ResponsibilitiesSample collection, data entry, basic testingPerforming tests, maintaining equipment, recording results
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, research, biotechMedical, industrial, research sectors

Both Lab Associates and Laboratory Technicians work in similar environments and often share educational requirements. The main difference lies in specific job duties, with Laboratory Technicians typically performing more complex tests and equipment maintenance. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers identify the right role for their skills and career goals.

What is the highest paid lab technician?

The highest paid lab technicians are often those with specialized skills, advanced certifications, or experience in high-demand fields such as pharmaceutical or clinical research laboratories. Salaries can reach over $70,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and level of expertise. Senior or supervisory roles typically offer higher compensation.

What are some typical challenges a Lab Associate might face during day-to-day work, and how can they be addressed?

Lab Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, ensuring precise documentation, and maintaining equipment. Staying organized by keeping detailed lab notes and using lab management software can help streamline workflow. Clear communication with team members and supervisors is vital to address any issues promptly and maintain a safe, efficient laboratory environment. Regularly scheduled equipment checks and proactive troubleshooting also contribute to smoother operations.

What do lab associates do?

Lab associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often work under supervision in research or clinical labs and may need knowledge of safety protocols and laboratory techniques.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Associate jobs in Iowa? For Lab Associate jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Associate jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Associate jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Lab Associate jobs near you

Medical Lab Technician/Medical Lab Scientist

Boone County Hospital - Lab

Boone, IA • On-site

$27.87 - $38.18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Join our Laboratory Services team providing excellent patientcare with a skilled team of providers! We offer a team approach to healthcare and a competitive benefitspackage.
Status: Full-time, 40 hours per week
Shift: Nights
Shift Time Schedule: 8 p.m. - 6:30 a.m.
Days: Monday-Friday, 4 day work week.
Salary Range Depending on Experience: MLT - $24.19-$34.70; MLS - $27.87 - $38.18, Shift differential premiums paid.
We offer competitive pay and agreat benefits package that includes:
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
  • Life insurance
  • Aflac
  • Short-term and long-term disability coverage
  • Wellness program and reimbursement
  • Free access to Boone County Hospital's onsitefitness room
  • Generous PTO Accrual Plan
  • Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Onsite Cafeteria

PositionSummary
Performstests and procedures in assigned section(s) of the laboratory, including thosewhich require exercise of independent and professional judgment andresponsibility with minimum supervision. Independently performs qualitative and quantitative tests, followingestablished guidelines and predetermined criteria to provide information usedin the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of disease. Identifies problems that may adversely affecttest performance and/or results and uses knowledge, critical thinking skillsand judgment to troubleshoot and resolve them. Consults with medical technologists and laboratory director whenappropriate. May be assigned to assumethe duties of a lead technician.
Required Qualifications
  • Associate degree in a science-related field with completion of asix-month clinical internship from a National Accrediting Agency for ClinicalLaboratory Science (NAACLS) accredited Clinical Laboratory Science program approved alternate career path as designated in the Clinical LaboratoryImprovement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA '88)

  • Registration by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) asa Medical Laboratory Technician as a Clinical Laboratory Technician or by the American Medical Technologists(AMT) as a Medical Laboratory Technician is required

  • A person may be hired into this position if he/she has completed therequirements for registration but has not successfully completed the exam. However, the exam must be successfullycompleted within 6 months subsequent to hiring

Essential Functions
  • Understand and abide by the Boone County Hospital Standards ofBehavior, confidentiality statement, EMTALA guidelines and general hospitalpolicies, procedures, and related practices
  • Performs qualitative and quantitative analysis for waived, moderately,and highly complex testing on biological laboratory specimens utilized for thediagnosis and treatment of disease as appropriate for patient age to includeneonate, infant, child, adolescent, adult, and geriatric adult
  • Follows established departmental policies, procedures, and standardwork
  • Follows safe work practices
  • Complies with the requirements of laboratory regulatory and accreditingagencies
  • Recognizes deviation from expected results while analyzing and correctingproblems using scientific principles
  • Provides information to health care providers regarding testmethodology and interpretation
  • Analyzes quality control data/material, makes judgment concerning theresults and takes appropriate action to maintain test accuracy and precision
  • Performs calibration, preventive maintenance and basic troubleshootingof instrumentation and equipment
  • Works independently while organizing work to meet establisheddeadlines. Will seek technical directionfrom medical technologist, department director and/or medical director withspecific procedural or instrumentation problems
  • Assists with new instrument or procedure implementation and training
  • Maintains inventory and orders supplies as needed
  • Assists in training new employees at the direction of the clinicallaboratory director
  • Complies with applicable regulatory and accreditation requirements ofthe laboratory
  • Documents and reports variances to department director
  • Participates in the Quality Assurance program within thedepartment. Identifies opportunities forimprovement and makes recommendations for resolution of identifiedproblems/errors
  • Assists with writing and revising laboratory procedures according toNCCLS guidelines
  • Operates laboratory information system, personal computers, andinstrument-related computer software

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS: (Constant = 67-100% of workday, Frequent= 34-66% of workday, Occasional = 33% or less of workday)
Frequent
Reaching: While performing test analysis.
Fingering: While entering data into the computer.
Grasping: While handling equipment and specimens.
Talking: While communicating with co-workers, patients and/or staff to instruct or relay information.
Hearing: To receive information.
Lifting: Up to 10 pounds (trays).
Standing: While performing test analysis.
Occasional
Pushing and Pulling: While stocking supplies, opening drawers, closing drawers and delivering specimens.
Lifting: Up to 50 pounds while handling supplies.
Climbing: While storing and retrieving supplies and ascending/descending stairs.
Feeling: Perceiving the nature of the veins by touching the skin with the fingertips.
VISUAL ACUITY REQUIREMENTS:
  • Works with computer terminals, instrumentation with small moving parts, reads labels and work lists, aliquots specimens, reads instructions, records data
  • Needs to be able to distinguish between colors

WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • The employee is subject to chemical hazards
  • Employees in this job classification have been identified as having the likelihood of occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials, therefore, are included in the OSHA Exposure Control Plan with its specification for preventing contact with the above materials
  • The employee is exposed to sharps
  • The employee is subject to indoor environmental conditions

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