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Lab Associate Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Engineering Technician

Waverly, IA

$21 - $23/hr

Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field (or ... Work Environment The work environment includes exposure to lab, workshop, and production floor ...

Actalent

Engineering Technician

Waverly, IA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field ... Work Environment This role operates across lab, workshop, and production floor environments ...

Actalent

Engineering Technician

Waverly, IA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field ... Work Environment This role operates across lab, workshop, and production floor environments ...

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Lab Associate information

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$11

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$31

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
Certified Medical Assistant - Waterloo Ortho Surgery

Certified Medical Assistant - Waterloo Ortho Surgery

UnityPoint Health

Waterloo, IA

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 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

UnityPoint Clinic - Orthopedic Surgery

Waterloo, IA

CMA - $5,000 Sign-on bonus

Full Time/40 hours per week


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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