Lab Operations Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Lab Technician performs analytical testing using HPLC, GC, and other laboratory instrumentation to support process and finished product quality. This role prepares and analyzes samples, records and interprets test results in laboratory software, and helps maintain accurate, efficient, and compliant lab operations in a quality-focused environment.

• Perform HPLC testing on process and finished product samples in accordance with established procedures and quality standards.
• Prepare, organize, and label process and finished product samples for analytical testing.
• Conduct analytical tests including pH testing, titrations, moisture testing, and other laboratory analyses as required.
• Record test results accurately into software programs and laboratory systems, ensuring data integrity and traceability.
• Organize and prepare samples to ensure efficient workflow and timely completion of testing.
• Clean testing equipment and maintain a clean, orderly laboratory area to support safe and reliable operations.
• Perform light maintenance and calibration on laboratory equipment to ensure accurate and reliable test results.
• Organize, clean, and schedule orders for laboratory equipment, supplies, and materials as needed.
• Continually compare equipment readouts with standards and control samples to verify that systems are operating accurately.
• Follow Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and quality control procedures to ensure compliance with quality assurance and quality standards.
• Multi-task and run multiple tests or instruments simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Collaborate with team members and communicate test findings, issues, or anomalies in a timely and professional manner.

• Experience performing HPLC testing or the ability to learn HPLC methods with on-site training.
• Experience with GC or the ability to learn GC methods with on-site training.
• Hands-on experience with pH testing prior to starting the position.
• Hands-on experience with moisture testing prior to starting the position.
• Familiarity with laboratory operations, lab testing, and lab equipment.
• Understanding of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) principles and their application in a laboratory environment.
• Experience or exposure to quality control, quality testing, quality assurance, and quality standards.
• Ability to perform titrations and other basic chemistry laboratory techniques.
• Strong multi-tasking skills with the ability to run certain tests concurrently while maintaining accuracy.
• Ability to accurately record and manage test results in software programs and laboratory systems.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to producing reliable, high-quality data.
• Associates of Science or Bachelor of Science in Chemistry or a related field preferred, OR 1–2 years of relevant lab-based experience.

• Associates of Science or Bachelor of Science in Chemistry or a related scientific field preferred.
• 1–2 years of relevant laboratory-based experience as an alternative to a degree.
• Experience working in a GMP-regulated environment.
• Exposure to quality assurance and quality control processes in a laboratory or manufacturing setting.
• Comfort working with scientific instrumentation such as HPLC, GC, and other analytical equipment.
• Strong organizational skills to manage samples, equipment, and documentation.
• Ability to adapt to rotating shifts and a changing training schedule.
• Interest in long-term contract opportunities and developing skills with advanced laboratory instrumentation.

The role is based in a laboratory environment that supports both human and animal nutrition product testing. The position operates on a rotating shift schedule alternating between days and nights, with 12-hour shifts from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. The schedule follows a rotation of 3 days on, 2 days off, 2 days on, and 3 days off, including every other weekend. Training will initially follow a floating schedule and may differ from the standard rotation until full onboarding is complete. The lab uses scientific instrumentation including HPLC, GC, pH meters, and equipment for moisture testing, as well as other analytical tools. The environment emphasizes cleanliness, organization, and adherence to GMP and quality standards, with regular cleaning of equipment and laboratory areas. This opportunity has the potential to develop into a long-term contract position in a structured, quality-focused laboratory setting.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of CLINTON, IA.

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $21.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in CLINTON,IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 7, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.