1

Laboratory Operations Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist PRN

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Operates laboratory information systems proficiently to support accurate data entry and workflow management. * Contributes to general laboratory operations by restocking supplies, participating in ...

Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist PRN

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Operates laboratory information systems proficiently to support accurate data entry and workflow management. * Contributes to general laboratory operations by restocking supplies, participating in ...

Showing results 41-60

Laboratory Operations Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$29.1K

$59.6K

$111.3K

How much do laboratory operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for laboratory operations manager in Iowa is $59,602.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $72,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a laboratory operations manager do?

A Laboratory Operations Manager oversees the daily operations of a laboratory, ensuring that all processes run efficiently and safely. They are responsible for managing staff, maintaining compliance with regulations, overseeing budgets, and ensuring quality control. Their role also involves coordinating with other departments, implementing new procedures, and troubleshooting operational issues to keep laboratory activities on track.

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

To thrive as a Laboratory Operations Manager, you need a solid background in laboratory science, management experience, and typically a bachelor's or advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), quality assurance protocols, and regulatory compliance certifications like CLIA or CAP accreditation is crucial. Strong organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills, along with effective communication, set top performers apart. These competencies ensure efficient laboratory operations, regulatory compliance, and high-quality results critical to scientific and healthcare outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by laboratory operations managers, and how can they be addressed?

Laboratory Operations Managers often encounter challenges such as maintaining compliance with safety and regulatory standards, managing diverse teams, and optimizing workflow efficiency. Balancing administrative duties with hands-on problem-solving and ensuring all staff are properly trained on protocols are also common issues. Addressing these challenges typically involves ongoing staff training, implementing robust quality management systems, and fostering clear communication between team members and other departments. Proactively staying updated on industry regulations and creating a culture of safety and collaboration can greatly help in overcoming these operational hurdles.

What is the difference between Laboratory Operations Manager vs Laboratory Supervisor?

AspectLaboratory Operations ManagerLaboratory Supervisor
CredentialsBachelor’s degree in science or related field; certifications may be preferredAssociate’s or Bachelor’s degree; relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple labs or departments, strategic planningSupervises daily lab activities, direct team oversight
ResponsibilitiesManaging operations, budgets, compliance, staff managementSupervising technicians, ensuring quality control, daily task management

The Laboratory Operations Manager focuses on overall lab management, strategic planning, and compliance, while the Laboratory Supervisor handles daily supervision of lab staff and operational tasks. Both roles require relevant science credentials, but the manager role involves broader responsibilities and higher-level decision-making.

What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Operations Manager jobs in Iowa?

For Laboratory Operations Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Operations Manager jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Operations Manager jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Laboratory Operations Manager jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Laboratory Operations Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Operations Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,602 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Chemistry Lab Coordinator

Iowa City, IA • On-site

The University Of Iowa
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Coordinate and oversee laboratory preparation, setup, and support activities for undergraduate chemistry instructional laboratories.

  • Monitor inventory levels, order laboratory supplies and materials, and maintain records supporting instructional operations.

  • Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and instructional technologies.


University Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and Department of Chemistry are seeking a Chemistry Lab Coordinator (Instructional Services Coordinator).

Reporting to the Administrator of Undergraduate Instruction, this position supports the daily operation of undergraduate instructional laboratories and preparation facilities. The role coordinates laboratory preparation, chemical and solution preparation, inventory management, equipment readiness, safety compliance, and instructional support activities for freshmen chemistry laboratory courses. The Laboratory Coordinator works closely with faculty, teaching assistants, staff, and student employees to help maintain a safe, efficient, and student-focused laboratory environment.

Join our team and contribute to an exceptional undergraduate learning experience.

Key Responsibilities

  • Prep Room Management: Coordinate and oversee prep room activities to ensure laboratories are prepared safely, accurately, and efficiently for instruction. 
  • Laboratory Operations: Coordinate preparation, setup, and support activities for undergraduate chemistry instructional laboratories. 
  • Inventory and Purchasing: Monitor inventory levels, order laboratory supplies and materials, and maintain records supporting instructional operations. 
  • Experiment Testing and Instructional Support: Test laboratory procedures and experiments, assist with implementation, and support troubleshooting of laboratory activities. 
  • Equipment and Technology Support: Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and instructional technologies. 
  • Student Employee Coordination: Train, schedule, supervise, and coordinate undergraduate student employees supporting laboratory operations. 
  • Collaboration: Work closely with faculty, teaching assistants, and laboratory staff to support effective undergraduate laboratory instruction. 
  • Safety and Compliance: Implement and ensure adherence to departmental, university, and regulatory health and safety requirements.

For a full job description or questions about this position, please send an email to libby-kleppe@uiowa.edu

Education Required

  • Bachelor's degree in chemistry or closely related field with sufficient chemistry knowledge and coursework to be able to perform the duties of the position.

Required Qualifications

  • Demonstrated experience in a laboratory environment, such as academic or commercial preparatory laboratories, undergraduate research laboratories, or advanced laboratory coursework. 
  • Working knowledge of laboratory safety practices, SOPs, and proper procedures for handling and disposing of chemical waste. 
  • Proficiency with common technology tools, including Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and internet-based research tools. 
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to convey complex information clearly to faculty, staff, and students. 
  • Demonstrated organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple tasks, establish priorities, and solve problems independently. 
  • Professional experience working effectively with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives.

Desired Qualifications

  • Advanced coursework in Chemistry. 
  • One or more years of laboratory experience in an academic preparatory, instructional, or research laboratory. 
  • Experience writing SOPs or developing technical laboratory documentation. 
  • Experience with advanced chemical instrumentation or laboratory management systems. 
  • Working knowledge of academic instructional systems such as ICON or related platforms.

Position and Application Details

For additional job details and to apply please visit https://jobs.uiowa.edu/ and access requisition #26004865.

Pay Level 3A

In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a "Relevant File" to the submission.   

  • Resume 
  • Cover Letter 

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. Please note that this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship in the United States. 

For additional questions, please contact: Libby Kleppe at libby-kleppe@uiowa.edu

About Iowa

Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success. Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance. Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation. Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.

Additional Information
  • Classification Title: Instructional Serv Coordinator
  • Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
  • Schedule: Full-time
  • Work Modality Options: On Campus
Compensation
  • Pay Level: 3A
  • Starting Salary Minimum: 45,000
  • Starting Salary Maximum: 50,000
Contact Information
  • Organization: College of Liberal Arts
  • Contact Name: Libby Kleppe
  • Contact Email: libby-kleppe@uiowa.edu

What University Of Iowa employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom