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Laboratory Associate Jobs in Tama, IA (NOW HIRING)

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Laboratory Associate information

See Tama, IA salary details

$10

$18

$28

How much do laboratory associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory associate in Tama, IA is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laboratory associate?

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.

What is a laboratory associate?

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 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 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 Tama, IA?

The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Tama, IA are:

What cities near Tama, IA are hiring for Laboratory Associate jobs?

Cities near Tama, IA with the most Laboratory Associate job openings:

Laboratory Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laboratory Associate job openings in Tama, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,852 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Technician

UnityPoint Health

Grundy Center, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

270th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)
Grundy County Memorial Hospital
Department: Laboratory
Schedule: Full Time | Weekend Package | Friday, Saturday & Sunday | 6:00 AM–6:00 PM | Every 5th Weekend Off

Sign-On Bonus: $5,000

Join the Laboratory team at Grundy County Memorial Hospital and play an essential role in delivering accurate, timely results that support exceptional patient care. As a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT), you'll perform a variety of laboratory tests, analyze patient specimens, and work alongside a collaborative team committed to quality, precision, and service excellence.

someone who enjoys a fast-paced healthcare environment, values teamwork, and is eager to continue building their laboratory knowledge and skills while making a meaningful impact on patients and the care team.


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.


  • Perform waived and moderate complexity laboratory testing following established procedures
  • Collect, receive, process, and prepare patient specimens, including phlebotomy as needed
  • Support testing across multiple laboratory areas, including chemistry, hematology, and specimen processing
  • Work collaboratively with certified laboratory professionals to ensure accurate, timely results
  • Perform quality control, routine instrument maintenance, and basic troubleshooting
  • Accurately document patient information and laboratory orders within electronic systems
  • Follow laboratory safety standards and regulatory requirements to maintain quality and compliance
  • Assist with training new team members and supporting departmental workflows
  • Help maintain laboratory supplies and inventory to support daily operations

Education:

  • Associate’s degree as a Medical Laboratory Technician.

Experience:

  • Previous experience in a clinical laboratory

License(s)/Certification(s):

  • Certification (or ability to obtain certification within 6 months of hire) by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists or equivalent.

What UnityPoint Health employees say

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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

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