ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Laboratory Assistant Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Trinity Health

Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist FT Days

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$19.75 - $26/hr

As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you will support a variety of laboratory departments by assisting technical staff in the collection, processing, analysis, and reporting of laboratory tests necessary ...

Trinityhealth

Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist FT Days

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$19.75 - $26/hr

As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you will support a variety of laboratory departments by assisting technical staff in the collection, processing, analysis, and reporting of laboratory tests necessary ...

Trinity Health

Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist FT Days

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$19.75 - $26/hr

As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you will support a variety of laboratory departments by assisting technical staff in the collection, processing, analysis, and reporting of laboratory tests necessary ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLaboratory JobsLaboratory Assistant JobsLaboratory Assistant Jobs in Waterloo, IA

Laboratory Assistant information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do laboratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory assistant in Waterloo, IA is $19.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laboratory assistant?

Laboratory assistants are professionals who support scientists, researchers, and lab technicians by performing routine tasks in laboratories. Their duties often include preparing and cleaning lab equipment, collecting and labeling samples, conducting basic experiments, and maintaining accurate records of their work. They play a crucial role in ensuring that laboratories run smoothly and efficiently, and their work helps facilitate scientific research and development. Laboratory assistants may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, research institutions, and educational facilities.

What are some common challenges laboratory assistants face in maintaining accuracy and safety in their daily tasks?

Laboratory Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple samples simultaneously while adhering to strict protocols for accuracy and contamination prevention. Ensuring proper labeling, handling hazardous materials safely, and maintaining detailed records are essential responsibilities that require attention to detail and strong time management skills. Collaboration with scientists and technicians is also important, as clear communication helps prevent errors and promotes a safe, efficient work environment. Staying up-to-date on safety procedures and laboratory best practices is key to overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Laboratory Assistant, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, sample handling, and safety protocols, usually supported by a relevant science degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), basic laboratory equipment, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for maintaining accuracy and collaborating with team members. These abilities ensure reliable results, uphold safety standards, and support the overall efficiency and integrity of laboratory operations.

What is the difference between Laboratory Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationPost-secondary education, often a diploma or associate degree in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labs, educational institutionsMedical labs, research facilities, industrial laboratories
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sample collection, preparing specimens, cleaning equipmentPerforming tests, analyzing samples, maintaining lab equipment
Common UsageOften entry-level, supporting technical staffMore technical, with independent testing responsibilities

Laboratory Assistants typically support laboratory operations with basic tasks and require minimal formal education. Laboratory Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis, often needing specialized training or certification. Both roles are essential in lab settings, but Laboratory Technicians usually have a higher level of technical responsibility.

Do you need qualifications to be a laboratory assistant?

Laboratory assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require post-secondary education or certifications in laboratory techniques or related fields. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and basic knowledge of safety procedures.

How do you become a laboratory assistant?

To become a laboratory assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant laboratory or scientific coursework. Some positions require post-secondary education or certifications in laboratory techniques, and strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and familiarity with lab equipment are important for success.

How much does a laboratory assistant get paid?

The average salary for a laboratory assistant varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $25,000 to $45,000 per year. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, often working in clinical, research, or industrial labs.

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Laboratory Assistant jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Laboratory Assistant job openings:

Laboratory Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laboratory Assistant job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,526 per year, or $20 per hour.

Medical Assistant II/Phlebotomist-Laboratory

Waterloo, IA • On-site

UnityPoint Health
Hospitals • 10K+ employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

304th of 893 rated healthcare providers

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about UnityPoint Healthexternal

$17.02/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Overview
Medical Assistant II/Phlebotomist
UnityPoint Health - Allen
Shift: Full-time; 0.8 FTE; 830 AM - 5 PM, 11 AM - 730 PM, or 1230 PM - 9 PM. Every other weekend, holiday rotation and on call.
Benefits Eligible
The Medical Assistant II Phlebotomist, under the direction of the Manager-Compliance/ED Lab/Phlebotomy, is responsible for collection of blood samples through phlebotomy (blood collection) techniques, including vacutainer, syringe, winged infusion set and capillary collections. All phlebotomists are expected to assist with collections from outpatients, inpatients as well as stat nursing home patients and any other patient types supported by UnityPoint Health.
The Medical Assistant II Phlebotomist is also trained into the Laboratory Office to register, receive in specimens from reference clients and other general office duties. They also perform routine nursing home collection routes when working during the early morning hours.
Phlebotomists also assist in the collection of other specimens such as urines for analysis and urines for drug screens.
Phlebotomists should possess good clerical and computer skills to support the Laboratory department.
Why UnityPoint Health?
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.
Responsibilities
  • Learn and understand basic techniques of phlebotomy and specimen collection.
  • Perform phlebotomy and specimen collection for inpatients, outpatients and nursing home patients
  • Learn and understand collection of urine drug screens for occupational and medical collections
  • Performs routine nursing home draw routes if scheduled in early AM hours
  • Assists technologists with duties including but not limited to stocking supplies, washing laboratory dishes, inventory management & follow up on reports
  • After competent, assist in training new staff in phlebotomy
  • Enters data and orders samples into Laboratory Information system
  • Registers, orders and receives in specimens from reference lab and nursing home clients
  • Navigates the Hospital Information system as required for patient care
  • Answers incoming phone calls

Qualifications
Education:
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred

Licensure/Certification:
  • Valid driver's license

Other:
  • Must be able to read, write and speak English
  • Must possess basic computer skills and knowledge using word processing, spreadsheet, email and web browser
  • May require frequent travel to area nursing home facilities
UnityPoint Health logo

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

View All UnityPoint Health Jobs

What UnityPoint Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply