ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lab Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Big River Resources

Lab Manager

Dyersville, IA · On-site

The Lab Manager specializes in the processing of corn into fuel grade ethanol, dried distillers grains and corn oil. As a Lab Manager, this person will oversee all laboratory operations at the ...

Elanco

Manager-Manufacturing Cell Lab

Fort Dodge, IA · On-site

Cell Lab Manager As a Cell Lab Manager, you will be part of the Manufacturing organization leading cell culture laboratory operations in a cGMP-regulated manufacturing environment. In this role, you ...

Thedacare

Cath Lab Supervisor

Manchester, IA

... lab and specials department across multiple sites and locations. The Supervisor for Invasive ... The Supervisor partners with the Manager, Invasive Cardiovascular Services to ensure smooth patient ...

West Coast Logistics

Lab Technician

Ames, IA

$20 - $25/hr

... Manage laboratory waste in accordance with established procedures • Maintain cleanliness and organization of lab workspaces • Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and performance checks on ...

Actalent

Lab Technician

Clinton, IA

$21/hr

Lab Technician The Lab Technician performs analytical testing using HPLC, GC, and other laboratory ... Ability to accurately record and manage test results in software programs and laboratory systems.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLab JobsLab Manager JobsLab Manager Jobs in Iowa

Lab Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$30.5K

$86.4K

$139.9K

How much do lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab manager in Iowa is $86,375.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,700.00 and $104,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lab Manager, you need expertise in laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and scientific analysis, typically supported by a degree in a relevant science field and prior lab experience. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), inventory software, and regulatory compliance certifications such as OSHA or CLIA is often required. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills help manage teams, coordinate projects, and ensure accurate reporting. These abilities are vital for maintaining efficient lab operations, regulatory compliance, and a safe, collaborative work environment.

What qualifications do you need to be a lab manager?

A lab manager typically needs a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or engineering, along with several years of experience in laboratory settings. Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills are essential, and certifications like OSHA safety training or specific technical licenses can be advantageous.

What is the highest paying job in a laboratory?

The highest paying jobs in a laboratory setting are often senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Chief Scientific Officers, who oversee operations and research strategies. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the industry and organization.

What does a Lab Manager do?

A Lab Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a laboratory. Their duties typically include supervising staff, ensuring safety protocols are followed, managing inventory and ordering supplies, maintaining equipment, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Lab Managers also coordinate experiments and research activities, and may handle budgeting and administrative tasks. Their role is crucial in ensuring the lab runs efficiently and safely.

Do you need a PhD to be a lab manager?

A PhD is not typically required to be a lab manager; most positions require a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field, along with experience in laboratory operations, management skills, and knowledge of lab procedures. Advanced degrees may be preferred for managing research-intensive labs, but practical experience and organizational abilities are often more important.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Managers when overseeing a diverse research team?

Lab Managers often encounter challenges related to coordinating schedules, managing conflicting priorities among researchers, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. Balancing administrative duties with hands-on support requires strong organizational skills and adaptability, especially when unexpected issues arise, such as equipment malfunctions or supply shortages. Effective communication is key to fostering collaboration and maintaining a productive work environment, as Lab Managers frequently serve as the bridge between researchers, technicians, and external vendors.

What does a Laboratory Manager do?

A Laboratory Manager oversees daily operations in a laboratory, including managing staff, ensuring safety protocols, maintaining equipment, and coordinating experiments or research activities. They often handle budgeting, compliance with regulations, and may require knowledge of laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

What is the difference between Lab Manager vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab ManagerLaboratory Technician
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant science, often with management experienceAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in a science or related field
Work EnvironmentOversees lab operations, manages staff, and ensures compliancePerforms routine tests, prepares samples, and maintains lab equipment
ResponsibilitiesSupervises staff, manages budgets, and coordinates projectsConducts experiments, records data, and maintains lab safety

The main difference between a Lab Manager and a Laboratory Technician lies in their responsibilities and level of oversight. Lab Managers focus on managing lab operations, staff, and compliance, while Laboratory Technicians handle hands-on testing and sample preparation. Both roles require relevant scientific credentials, but Lab Managers typically have more experience and managerial skills.

More about Lab Manager jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Lab Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Lab Manager job openings:
Lab Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Manager job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,375 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Lab Manager

Lab Manager

Big River Resources

Dyersville, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Big River United Energy has an opening for a Lab Manager located in Dyersville, IA. The Lab Manager specializes in the processing of corn into fuel grade ethanol, dried distillers grains and corn oil. As a Lab Manager, this person will oversee all laboratory operations at the ethanol facility to ensure production quality, regulatory compliance, and continuous process improvement. The successful candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Chemical Engineering, or equivalent work and/or lab experience, basic computer skills, attention to detail and good time management skills.

Big River United Energy offers a clean, safe and competitive employment opportunity. Big River also offers a competitive benefit package that includes low deductible and low premium health insurance, PTO available on day 1, discretionary annual cash incentives and profit sharing, company paid family dental coverage, and much more!

This position will be challenging and gratifying, while working alongside an excellent team. If this sounds like a team you would like to join, make sure to apply today using our quick application!

Drive into the future with Big River United Energy, LLC creating a cleaner burning fuel!

Apply