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Lab Associate Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

RN, Cath Lab Waterloo, IA - Allen Hospital Full-time Days, 7am-3:30pm (4 days per week, days will ... Associates Degree in Nursing. Bachelors of Science in Nursing preferred. * One (1) year of hospital ...

Ensures the completion of internal lab audits in compliance with the NQAC program. * Updates NQMS, ICPs and SOPs as needed and ensures training of laboratory associates. Assists, advises and trains ...

Perform lab-related tasks and support symptom-based clinical workflows as directed * Review care ... Graduate of an accredited program for RN/LPN license with an associate's degree preferred. License ...

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Lab Associate information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$11

$20

$31

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Waterloo, IA is $20.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $23.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab associate?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab associate?

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 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 cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Lab Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,317 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 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

RN, Cath Lab

Waterloo, IA - Allen Hospital

Full-time Days, 7am-3:30pm (4 days per week, days will vary) Call rotation (6-8 days of call per month, this includes a 3 day weekend)

Eligible for $10,000 Sign-on Bonus

As a member of the interdisciplinary team, contributes professional nursing knowledge and skills in the provision and management of care to patients and their families.  Maintains a practice environment that reflects the ANA Code for Nurses, Philosophy of Nursing at UnityPoint Health with in the structure of the Professional Nurse Practice Model and in collaboration with other care givers.


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.


  • Assesses the needs of patients and families, providing appropriate teaching and making the necessary referrals to provide continuity of care.
  • Develops an individual plan of care using a collaborative approach with the patient/family and health care team.
  • Promptly completes documentation to assure an accurate legal record of patient’s care.
  • Delivers high quality care utilizing the nursing process while demonstrating knowledge and clinical skills of the specialty required on assigned unit in accordance with established policies, procedures and standards of care.
  • Utilizes holistic approach (considering biopsychosocial, spiritual, educational, safety, and related criteria) appropriate to the age of the patients and families served in the assigned service area.
  • Delegates and provides direction for other healthcare providers and hold them accountable for their involvement in the plan of care.
  • Utilizes critical thinking in making independent judgments, and maintains responsibility and accountability for the knowledge of conditions of assigned patients.
  • Continues professional development and involvement in professional activities that enhance nursing practice by sharing knowledge through networking and research.
  • Assess and chooses teaching strategies appropriate to the patient’s and their families’ age specific needs, culture, gender, readiness to learn and level of comprehension.
  • Consults appropriate resources within the hospital to provide specialized education.
  • Demonstrates knowledge that patient and workplace safety is a priority by preventing errors, accidents and infections and reporting potential or actual concerns immediately.

  • Associates Degree in Nursing. Bachelors of Science in Nursing preferred.
  • One (1) year of hospital clinical experience or demonstrated clinical efficiency preferred.
  • Current license in the state of Iowa or meets criteria established by Iowa Board of Nursing.
  • Writes, reads, comprehends and speaks fluent English.
  • Multicultural sensitivity.
  • Microsoft Office – basic computer skills.
  • Customer/patient focused.
  • Critical thinking skills using independent judgment in making decisions.

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About UnityPoint Health

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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