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Lab Associate Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Trinity Health

Cath Lab Tech

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$2.25K - $3.01K/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 ...

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How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Waterloo, IA is $20.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $23.27 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 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 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.

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 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 Associate jobs in Waterloo, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Associate jobs in Waterloo, IA are:
What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Lab Associate jobs near you
Laboratory Technical Associate-Main Laboratory

Laboratory Technical Associate-Main Laboratory

UnityPoint Health

Waterloo, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

UnityPoint Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 350 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

329th of 864 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview
Laboratory Technical Associate - Main Lab
UnityPoint Health - Allen
Shift: Full-time; 0400-1230, 0445-1315. Every other weekend, holiday rotation, and 3 on call shifts
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.
Why UnityPoint Health?
At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We're proud to be recognized as a Top 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 focused on 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, health and vision 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.
Join our team of experts and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.
Responsibilities
  • 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

Qualifications
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
  • Must possess basic computer skills and knowledge using word processing, spreadsheet, email and web browser

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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