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Lab Associate Jobs in Tama, IA (NOW HIRING)

Clinic RN II

Tama, IA · On-site

$77K - $105K/wk

Collect and label chemistry, microbiology and hematology lab specimens and process all labs in ... Associate of Science Degree in nursing required. Bachelor of Science in nursing preferred * Must be ...

Clinic RN II

Tama, IA · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Collect and label chemistry, microbiology and hematology lab specimens and process all labs in ... Associate of Science Degree in nursing required. Bachelor of Science in nursing preferred * Must be ...

Collect and label chemistry, microbiology and hematology lab specimens and process all labs in ... Associate of Science Degree in nursing required. Bachelor of Science in nursing preferred * Must be ...

Certified Medical Assistant

Toledo, IA

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Collect and prepare lab specimens for testing as needed * Coordinate referrals, follow-up ... Graduate of an accredited program for Medical Assistants (Certificate, diploma, or Associate ...

Certified Medical Assistant

Toledo, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Collect and prepare lab specimens for testing as needed * Coordinate referrals, follow-up ... Graduate of an accredited program for Medical Assistants (Certificate, diploma, or Associate ...

Lab Associate information

See Tama, IA salary details

$10

$18

$28

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Tama, IA is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $20.87 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.

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.

How much does a lab assistant 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 the lower end, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the industry and work environment.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers, Principal Investigators, or specialized research scientists tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities, resulting in higher compensation compared to entry-level lab associate roles.

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 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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate's degree or higher in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or laboratory technology. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols; certifications like OSHA training can also be beneficial.

What do lab associates do?

Lab associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They work under supervision in laboratory environments, often using tools like microscopes and pipettes, and may need relevant certifications or training depending on the industry. Their role supports research, quality control, or diagnostic processes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Tama, IA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Tama, IA are:
What cities near Tama, IA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Tama, IA with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Tama, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,852 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Medical Lab Technician-Certified

Medical Lab Technician-Certified

UnityPoint Health

Marshalltown, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 359 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
Medical Laboratory Technician
Marshalltown Hopsital
Shift: Full-Time | 40 Hours per Week | Overnights with Weekend and Holiday Rotation
Eligible for a $5,000 Sign-On Bonus!
As a Medical Laboratory Technician, you will play a vital role in supporting patient care through accurate laboratory testing and analysis. This position performs testing across multiple laboratory departments including hematology, chemistry, blood bank, special chemistry, and microbiology while ensuring quality, accuracy, and timely results.
You'll be responsible for performing routine laboratory procedures, specimen collection, quality control activities, and maintenance of laboratory equipment in accordance with regulatory and organizational standards. This role is essential in helping providers diagnose, monitor, and treat patients across a variety of care settings.
Why UnityPoint Health?
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.
Responsibilities
  • Perform routine laboratory testing in hematology, chemistry, blood bank, microbiology, and special chemistry departments
  • Follow laboratory procedures to ensure accurate testing and timely reporting of critical lab values
  • Collect, receive, process, and prepare laboratory specimens and send-out testing
  • Perform quality control procedures, instrument maintenance, and basic troubleshooting
  • Maintain compliance with laboratory safety, quality, and regulatory standards
  • Collaborate with providers and healthcare teams to support quality patient care
  • Assist with training and education for students and new laboratory employees
  • Support inventory management and supply coordination for laboratory operations
  • Prioritize workload and support efficient day-to-day laboratory workflow
  • Contribute to a patient-centered environment focused on quality, safety, and service excellence

Qualifications
Education:
  • Associate degree
  • Degree in Medical Technology or Clinical Laboratory Science
  • or
  • Qualify as Testing Personnel under Federal Register Sec 493.1489

License(s)/Certification(s):
  • MLT-ASCP or CLA (non-regulatory)

What UnityPoint Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

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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