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Lab Manager Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

This role manages tissue sample tracking systems, assists with insect bioassays and experimental studies, and partners closely with greenhouse and assay leads to ensure accurate data collection ...

Laboratory Technician

Johnston, IA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Maintain and manage tissue sample tracking systems and databases to ensure accurate sample identification, documentation, and traceability. * Collaborate effectively with research scientists ...

Laboratory Technician

Johnston, IA · On-site

$17.80 - $22.80/hr

Maintain and manage tissue sample tracking systems and databases to ensure accurate sample identification, documentation, and traceability. Collaborate effectively with research scientists ...

Laboratory Technician II

Ellsworth, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

We set the standard for farm management solutions and fix our eyes on raising the bar to meet the next generation of expectations. Laboratory Technician II - Ellsworth, IA JOB SUMMARY To accurately ...

Laboratory Technician II

Ellsworth, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

We set the standard for farm management solutions and fix our eyes on raising the bar to meet the next generation of expectations. Laboratory Technician II - Ellsworth, IA JOB SUMMARY To accurately ...

This role manages tissue sample tracking systems, assists with insect bioassays and experimental studies, and partners closely with greenhouse and assay leads to ensure accurate data collection ...

Laboratory Technician

Johnston, IA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Ability to prioritize workload requirements and exercise good time management to ensure all work is completed on time. * Ability to remain compliant with regulatory as well as company requirements.

Responsibilities: * Assist technical personnel with routine laboratory operations, data collection, and information management in support of scientific research. * Perform tasks according to ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Manager information

See Ames, IA salary details

$31.8K

$90K

$145.8K

How much do lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab manager in Ames, IA is $89,955.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,500.00 and $108,600.00 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 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.

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Ames, IA?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Ames, IA are:

What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Lab Manager jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA with the most Lab Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Manager job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,000 per year, or $43.3 per hour.

Research and Development Specialist II 2nd Shift (Monday through Thursday, 3pm to 2am)

Bayer Inc.

Ankeny, IA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Bayer rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

At Bayer we're visionaries, driven to solve the world's toughest challenges and striving for a world where 'Health for all Hunger for none' is no longer a dream, but a real possibility. We're doing it with energy, curiosity and sheer dedication, always learning from unique perspectives of those around us, expanding our thinking, growing our capabilities and redefining 'impossible'. There are so many reasons to join us. If you're hungry to build a varied and meaningful career in a community of brilliant and diverse minds to make a real difference, there's only one choice.

Research and Development Specialist II 2nd Shift (Monday through Thursday, 3pm to 2am) 

Research and Development Specialist II - 2nd Shift (Monday through Thursday, 3pm to 2am.)

Identifies and validates molecular targets that play a key role in plant pathology, yield, and nutrition; analyzes and identifies the biological, chemical, and genetic properties of plants; and studies molecular biology, cell biology, plant genetics, plant physiology, biochemistry, and/or microbiology as input to the discovery of new plant cultivars or agricultural methods; in this Production Genotyping role (Research and Development Specialist II - 2nd Shift (Monday through Thursday, 3pm to 2am in Ankeny, Iowa), you execute highthroughput genotyping activities in close collaboration with lab team members to ensure timely delivery of highquality data, consistently achieve daily and weekly KPI targets, and drive process and system improvements while maintaining strict adherence to safety, quality, and compliance requirements; you also operate, troubleshoot, and maintain laboratory automation systems as part of a dynamic, innovationdriven R&D environment.

YOUR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The primary responsibilities of this role, Research and Development Specialist II - 2nd Shift (Monday through Thursday, 3pm to 2am) are to:

  • Meet daily and weekly genotyping objectives while consistently delivering highquality data;
  • Manage and operate specialized highthroughput laboratory and automation technologies, including troubleshooting and routine maintenance;
  • Participate in crossfunctional work across multiple platforms and process areas to support endtoend genotyping workflows;
  • Solve technical and operational challenges, enhance workflow efficiency and driving continuous improvement in lab processes;
  • Design and conduct experiments, applying specialized scientific techniques and multiple data sources to validate methods and improve processes;
  • Adhere to established protocols while operating complex instrumentation, using deductive reasoning to resolve issues within sophisticated laboratory technologies;
  • Prioritize and coordinate tasks within a large team, provide training and guidance to colleagues, and maintain comprehensive records and documentation in digital and paper systems;
  • Champion a strong safety culture by following and reinforcing best practices, protocols, and compliance requirements in all lab activities.

WHO YOU ARE

Bayer seeks an incumbent who possesses the following:

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's or master's degree in biology, Chemistry, Engineering, or another life science field;
  • Valid driver's license (driving record will be reviewed and must meet guidelines based on the company's Risk Screening for Hiring Drivers);
  • Proficiency in digital technologies, including data analysis and visualization tools, and experience with computerized workflow tracking systems (e.g., automated laboratory systems, warehouse inventory, shipping/receiving, pharmaceutical tracking, hospital/healthcare, food service);
  • Experience in experimental design and execution, with familiarity in highthroughput laboratory automation and mechanical aptitude for operating and troubleshooting automated systems;
  • Demonstrated ability to overcome challenges, take initiative, and deliver highquality results while adhering to established processes and safety protocols;
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with proven problemsolving skills in a collaborative, teamoriented environment;
  • Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and timelines while maintaining urgency and efficiency to support business objectives.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • At least one year of experience in a highthroughput TaqMan genotyping or production environment (including postundergraduate work in academia or industry);
  • Expertise in leveraging data for decisionmaking (e.g., analyzing production KPIs, guiding investigations, conducting risk assessments, and performing cost/benefit analyses) and in organizing and developing specialized reports to meet dynamic business needs;
  • Experience in troubleshooting and maintaining laboratory instrumentation, with a background in workflow optimization using root cause analysis, Lean, 5S, or Six Sigma methodologies;
  • Proven ability to balance and prioritize business deliverables, personal development, and project assignments, and to independently design, execute, interpret, and validate scientific experiments or methods;
  • Successful track record of communicating scientific data and laboratory matters to teams, partners, and stakeholders, and of building networks and collaborating to drive innovation, continuous improvement, and solutions to complex business or scientific challenges.

Posting available until August 27, 2026

Employees can expect to be paid a salary between $60,000.00 to $90,000.00. Additional compensation may include a bonus or commission (if relevant).  Other benefits include health care, vision, dental, retirement, PTO, sick leave, etc. If selected for this role, the offer may vary based on market data/ranges, an applicant's skills and prior relevant experience, certain degrees and certifications, and other relevant factors.

    YOUR APPLICATION      

Bayer offers a wide variety of competitive compensation and benefits programs. If you meet the requirements of this unique opportunity, and want to impact our mission Health for all, Hunger for none, we encourage you to apply now. Be part of something bigger. Be you. Be Bayer. 
To all recruitment agencies: Bayer does not accept unsolicited third party resumes.
Bayer is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans
Bayer is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its application process for individuals with disabilities and encourages applicants with disabilities to request any needed accommodation(s) using the contact information below. 

  Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: Notice for U.S. Visitors: All information on this site is subject to compliance with local rule and regulations as they may vary from time to time and across different geographies, including, without limitation, U.S. Executive Orders.       Bayer is an E-Verify Employer.               Location: United States : Iowa : Ankeny      Division: Crop Science     Reference Code: 880378          Contact Us     Email: hrop_usa@bayer.com 

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About Bayer

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of healthcare and nutrition. We design our products and services to help people and planet thrive by supporting efforts to address the unprecedented global challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. At Bayer, we’re committed to drive sustainable development and generate a positive impact with our businesses. Through bold ideas and unprecedented insights, we’re pioneering new possibilities that advance life for all of us. That means reimagining how we care for ourselves and one another by empowering everyday health, improving approaches to patient care, and finding better ways to nourish our communities around the world.

Industry

Agriculture

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Whippany, NJ, US