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Laboratory Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Nestle

Facility Quality Supervisor

Waverly, IA

Updates NQMS, ICPs and SOPs as needed and ensures training of laboratory associates. Assists, advises and trains factory employees in attaining NQAC requirements (MI, LI, P-test, etc.). * Ensures ...

Eurofins

Laboratory Technician I

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

Eurofins is one of the market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics ... Bachelor or Associate degree or with 1+ years experience Additional Information Candidates ...

Iowa State University

Diagnostic Associate I

Ames, IA · On-site

Position Title:Diagnostic Associate I Job Group:Professional & Scientific Required Minimum ... The Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) at Iowa State University supports animal health, public ...

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Laboratory Associate information

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$11

$21

$32

How much do laboratory associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory associate in Iowa is $21.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $23.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Laboratory Associate, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and a background in biological or chemical sciences, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), safety protocols, and specialized equipment such as spectrophotometers or centrifuges is typically required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help Laboratory Associates excel in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These skills ensure accurate results, safety, and efficiency, which are vital for reliable scientific research and operations.

How much does a Laboratory Assistant earn?

Laboratory Assistants typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. The role often involves working with laboratory equipment and following safety protocols.

What are Laboratory Associates?

Laboratory Associates are professionals who assist with various tasks in a laboratory setting, such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, maintaining equipment, and recording data. They often work under the supervision of scientists or laboratory managers and play a crucial role in supporting research and development activities. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the specific laboratory and industry, but attention to detail, organizational skills, and knowledge of lab safety protocols are essential for this role.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a laboratory associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions require an associate's or bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or medical technology. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols; certifications like OSHA training can also be beneficial.

What are some typical challenges Laboratory Associates face when managing multiple experiments simultaneously?

Laboratory Associates often juggle several experiments at once, which requires strong organizational and time management skills. Balancing tasks such as sample preparation, data collection, and equipment maintenance can be challenging, especially when experiments have overlapping schedules or strict deadlines. Effective communication with team members and clear documentation are crucial to ensure that procedures are followed accurately and results remain reliable. Many labs use digital systems to track progress and share updates, which helps associates manage their workload efficiently.

What is the highest paying laboratory job?

The highest paying laboratory jobs are often senior roles such as Laboratory Director, Principal Scientist, or Research Manager, which require advanced degrees and extensive experience. These positions typically offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually and involve overseeing laboratory operations, research projects, and compliance. Specialized fields like pharmaceutical or biotech research tend to have higher compensation levels for experienced professionals.

What do lab associates do?

Laboratory associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining lab equipment. They work under supervision in laboratory settings, often using tools like microscopes and pipettes, and may need certifications or training in safety protocols.

What is the difference between Laboratory Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certificationAssociate degree or certification, often similar
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, healthcare, pharmaceutical settingsResearch, clinical, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, research institutions, biotech companiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Laboratory Associates and Laboratory Technicians often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. Both roles support laboratory operations in healthcare, research, or industrial settings. The main differences are often related to specific job duties and employer terminology, but they are frequently used interchangeably depending on the organization.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Associate jobs in Iowa? For Laboratory Associate jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laboratory Associate jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Laboratory Associate jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Laboratory Associate jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Laboratory Associate job openings:
Laboratory Associate jobs near you
Diagnostic Associate I

Diagnostic Associate I

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Iowa State University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

301st of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Title:Diagnostic Associate IJob Group:Professional & ScientificRequired Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor's degreeJob Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

Are you passionate about molecular diagnostics, genomics, and bioinformatics? The Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Iowa State University is seeking a highly motivated professional to join our team. This position offers the opportunity to work with advanced sequencing technologies and bioinformatics tools while supporting animal health diagnostics, disease surveillance, and research initiatives. If you enjoy problem solving, data analysis, and working in a collaborative laboratory environment, we encourage you to apply.

What You'll Do

As a Diagnostic Associate I, you will support the laboratory's diagnostic and surveillance efforts through molecular testing, sequencing analysis, quality assurance activities, and research support. Key responsibilities include:

  • Perform molecular diagnostic procedures including DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, Sanger sequencing, and next generation sequencing.
  • Analyze sequencing data, assemble gene sequences from raw data, generate phylogenetic trees, and conduct bioinformatic analyses to support diagnostic testing and disease surveillance programs.
  • Evaluate incoming samples for quality and suitability, verify test results, monitor quality control measures, and investigate unexpected or inconsistent findings.
  • Collaborate with diagnostic associates, faculty, laboratory staff, and national surveillance partners to support animal disease monitoring and reporting efforts.
  • Assist with research and development projects by supporting test development activities, organizing research samples, and providing technical expertise for ongoing laboratory initiatives.
  • Requires strict adherence to established safety and quality standards.
  • Provides opportunities to build expertise in molecular diagnostics, sequencing technologies, and bioinformatics applications.
  • Involves high volume sample processing and requires strong attention to detail.
  • The ability to distinguish colors accurately is necessary for interpreting laboratory results and ensuring compliance with safety protocols.

Additional details

  • Location: Ames, Iowa within the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Iowa State University. Work is performed onsite in a laboratory setting handling biological specimens and specialized equipment
  • Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with no weekend hours

About the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory

The Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory serves veterinarians, animal owners, researchers, industry partners, and government agencies by providing high quality diagnostic testing and disease surveillance services. The laboratory plays a vital role in protecting animal health, supporting food safety, and responding to emerging disease threats. Through innovative diagnostic technologies and scientific collaboration, the VDL contributes to the health and well being of animals locally, nationally, and internationally.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, genetics, bioinformatics, biochemistry, animal science, or a related field.
  • Laboratory experience through employment, internship, research, or academic laboratory work.
  • Experience performing molecular biology techniques such as DNA extraction, RNA extraction, PCR, or gel electrophoresis.
  • Experience with DNA sequencing technologies, including Sanger sequencing or next generation sequencing.
  • Experience using bioinformatics or sequence analysis software (e.g., BLAST, Geneious, CLC Genomics Workbench, Galaxy, R, Python, or similar tools).


Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
  • Life insurance and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellbeing program

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type:RegularNumber of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Full timePay Grade:PS806Original Posting Date:July 1, 2026Posting Close Date:July 8, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19537

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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