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Lab Trainee Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Trainee information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$19

$34

How much do lab trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab trainee in Iowa is $19.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab trainee?

Lab Trainees are individuals who are undergoing training in a laboratory setting to gain practical experience and develop essential skills in scientific research or testing. Their responsibilities often include assisting with experiments, preparing samples, maintaining equipment, and learning laboratory safety protocols. Lab Trainees work under the supervision of experienced scientists or technicians and may be students, recent graduates, or new employees. This position provides foundational experience necessary for a career in science or laboratory technology.

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

To thrive as a Lab Trainee, you need a solid background in biological or chemical sciences, attention to detail, and often at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, basic data analysis software, and adherence to safety protocols are typically required. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and eagerness to learn help Lab Trainees excel and contribute positively to team dynamics. These skills ensure experiments are conducted accurately, safely, and efficiently, supporting reliable research outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by lab trainees during their initial months, and how can they be addressed?

Lab Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict safety protocols, learning to use specialized equipment, and managing time efficiently amidst multiple tasks. It's normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but proactively seeking guidance from experienced team members and regularly reviewing standard operating procedures can ease the transition. Open communication with supervisors and participating in hands-on training sessions also help build confidence and competence in the lab environment.

What is the difference between Lab Trainee vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab TraineeLab Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant education; no formal certification requiredUsually holds a diploma or certification in laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised, learning-focusedOperational laboratory environment, performing routine tests and procedures
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research labs, hospitals during trainingHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities

In summary, a Lab Trainee is primarily in a learning phase, gaining hands-on experience under supervision, while a Lab Technician is a trained professional responsible for conducting laboratory tests independently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Lab Trainee jobs in Iowa?

For Lab Trainee jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lab Trainee job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,319 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Imaging Technologist 100% EP Lab- Downtown Campus

The University Of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


University Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

465th of 625 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The University of Iowa Health Care Downtown Campus EP Lab is seeking an Imaging Technologist with primary duties in the diagnosis and treatment of patients undergoing invasive radiographic procedures in the EP Lab.

Selective candidates eligible for a sign-on bonus of $10,000.  Current UI employees are not eligible.

A career with University of Iowa Health Care is more than a job. Here, you're part of something greater, something bigger. Our downtown campus is a 194-bed hospital (located at 500 E Market Street, Iowa City) providing a community-based model of care while directly connected to the expertise, technology, collaboration, and support of our entire health system. Join the team at our downtown campus. You'll find meaning and purpose knowing that your work helps make all of Iowa better.

Basic Function and Responsibility:

Perform and teach specialized diagnostic and research imaging and spectroscopic procedures utilizing complex imaging equipment with close patient monitoring during exam.

Duties Include:

  • Manipulate, adjust and control the complex electronic and computerized components of the imaging system to produce patient examinations and research project while performing quality assurance procedures and evaluating system performance throughout the working day.  This includes independent operation with minimal physician supervision. 
  • Use proper septic techniques including skin preparation and IV placement; also vital sign monitoring and recording and basic life support knowledge. 
  • Safety precautions are used to minimize or eliminate risks to patients, personnel and equipment.
  • Perform image processing such as 3-D reconstruction and image reprocessing and non-imaging functions such as spectroscopy.
  • Prepare and administer contrast material to patients under radiologist's supervision as required.
  • Maintain records and results of examinations and archive computer data.
  • Establish rapport with patient and provide information about how the exam is performed and what is required of the patient.
  • Plan daily regular and STAT scheduling for efficient room utilization.
  • Assist Clinical Chief Technologist with inventory, ordering supplies and maintaining quality assurance in accordance with hospital, department and area standards.
  • Participate in on-call coverage.
  • Provide instruction to trainees, students and other medical staff on operation and safety precautions.
  • Participate in phantom and/or animal research as required.
  • Maintain current knowledge of developments in specialty imaging area and related subjects with periodic software updates by attending meetings, continuing education programs, participates in professional organizations and/or reviews journals or publications.
  • Maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students and the public.

Percent of Time: 100%

Schedule: M-F 0700-1730, 10 hour shifts, rotating day off

Pay Grade: 5

 Benefits Highlights:

  • Regular salaried position located in Iowa City, Iowa
  • Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans
  • For more information about Why Iowa?, click here

Experience Requirements

  • Successful completion of two-year or other approved program by Joint Review Committee in Radiologic Technology Education is required. 
  • Certification or eligibility for certification in diagnostic procedures by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologies is required. 
  • Permit to practice in the State of Iowa for all radiographers operating ionizing radiation emitting equipment is required. 
  • Special qualifications will be indicated with the position advertising process, dependent upon the technology that the staff member will be operating.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.

Application Process: To be considered, applicants must upload a resume and a cover letter (under submission relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days or until position is filled.

Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check. 

For additional questions, contact Emilio Villagrana at emilio-villagrana@uiowa.edu.

Additional Information
  • Classification Title: Imaging Technologist
  • Appointment Type: SEIU
  • Schedule: Full-time
  • Work Modality Options: On Campus
Compensation
  • Pay Level: 4
Contact Information
  • Organization: Healthcare
  • Contact Name: Emilio Villagrana
  • Contact Email: emilio-villagrana@uiowa.edu

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