ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Med Lab Tech Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Skyline Med Staff, LLC

Cath Lab Tech

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$2.5K/wk

Details Client Name Mercy Medical Center Des Moines Job Type Travel Offering Allied Profession Allied Specialty Cath Lab Tech Job ID 35831037 Job Title Cath Lab Tech Weekly Pay $2567.0 Shift Details ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMed Lab Tech JobsMed Lab Tech Jobs in Iowa

Med Lab Tech information

See Iowa salary details

$596

$1.7K

$2.8K

How much do med lab tech jobs pay per week?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average weekly pay for med lab tech in Iowa is $1,683.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,048.08 and $2,150.00 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Medical Laboratory Technician, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory procedures, typically supported by an associate degree in medical laboratory technology and relevant certification (such as ASCP). Familiarity with laboratory information systems, automated analyzers, and quality control standards is essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are important soft skills that help ensure accurate test results and smooth teamwork. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering reliable diagnostic data that directly impacts patient care and clinical decision-making.

What is the highest salary for MLT?

The highest salary for a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) can reach around $70,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Advanced roles or specialized skills may lead to higher compensation in some regions or institutions.

What are Med Lab Techs?

Medical Laboratory Technicians (Med Lab Techs) are healthcare professionals who perform laboratory tests on patient samples, such as blood, urine, and tissue, to help diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. They work under the supervision of laboratory managers or technologists, ensuring that test results are accurate and timely. Med Lab Techs use specialized equipment and follow strict protocols to maintain quality and safety standards in the lab. Their work is critical in providing doctors with the information needed to make informed medical decisions.

What are some common challenges Med Lab Techs face when balancing accuracy and efficiency in a fast-paced laboratory environment?

Med Lab Techs often work under tight deadlines, especially in hospitals or busy diagnostic labs, where timely results are crucial for patient care. Balancing the need for rapid turnaround with the requirement for precise and accurate test results can be challenging. This role demands strong attention to detail, effective time management, and the ability to prioritize tasks without compromising quality. Teamwork and clear communication with other healthcare professionals also play a significant role in managing these challenges and ensuring the integrity of laboratory data.

Is MLT harder than nursing?

Med Lab Technicians (MLTs) and nurses have different skill sets and responsibilities; MLTs focus on laboratory testing and analysis, requiring knowledge of lab procedures and equipment, while nurses provide patient care and clinical support. Both roles require specialized training and certification, but the difficulty depends on individual aptitude and interest in laboratory work versus direct patient interaction.

What exactly does a medical lab technician do?

A medical lab technician performs laboratory tests on blood, tissue, and other samples to help diagnose and monitor diseases. They operate and maintain lab equipment, follow safety protocols, and record accurate results, often working under the supervision of a medical technologist or pathologist.

What is the difference between Med Lab Tech vs Medical Laboratory Scientist?

AspectMed Lab TechMedical Laboratory Scientist
CredentialsAssociate's degree, certification (e.g., ASCP)Bachelor's or higher, certification (e.g., ASCP)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, research labs, public health labs
Job ResponsibilitiesPerforming routine tests, preparing samplesAdvanced testing, analysis, lab management

The main difference between a Med Lab Tech and a Medical Laboratory Scientist lies in their education, responsibilities, and level of expertise. Med Lab Techs typically hold an associate's degree and perform routine lab tests, while Medical Laboratory Scientists usually have a bachelor's degree and handle more complex analyses and lab management tasks.

How much do MLTs make?

Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLTs) in Florida typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on location, employer, and additional skills such as proficiency with laboratory equipment or specialized testing.
What are popular job titles related to Med Lab Tech jobs in Iowa? For Med Lab Tech jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Med Lab Tech jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Med Lab Tech jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Med Lab Tech jobs in IA? For Med Lab Tech jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Med Lab Tech jobs near you
Medical Lab Scientist or Medical Lab Technician - Blood Bank

Medical Lab Scientist or Medical Lab Technician - Blood Bank

The University Of Iowa

Iowa City, IA

$53K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

University Of Iowa rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

425th of 553 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Qualified candidates may be eligible for a sign-on incentive of $5,000 based on years of experience!

(Current UI employees are not eligible for incentive)

The Department of Pathology is seeking a Medical Laboratory Scientist or Medical Laboratory Technician, utilizing a variety of procedures involving highly complex analytical lab test methodology and techniques, perform quantitative and qualitative clinical laboratory analysis on biological specimens such as blood, tissue and body fluids. These procedures will utilize a variety of procedures, many involving numerous highly complex tests and techniques that require the use of professional judgment. Provide technical expertise and information used to diagnose, prevent or treat disease. This position is 100%-time, 10-hour shifts from 2100-0700, Wednesday-Wednesday (8 days on, followed by 6 days off), with rotating holidays.

The department intends to hire for one position from either Medical Laboratory Technician, or Medical Laboratory Scientist, based on the qualifications of the successful candidate. Please indicate in your application materials the position you wish to be considered for on indicate both. 

Duties to include:

         Receive blood samples, process incoming blood shipments, and prepare blood components.

         Dispense and return blood components.

         Keep records of all transactions.

         Perform ABO/Rh antibody screening and identification tests using established procedures.

         Perform compatibility testing using pre-transfusion protocols.

         Perform other projects and tasks as assigned.

For a full job description, please send an e-mail to the contact listed below.

The Department of Pathology is part of UI Health Care, a comprehensive health sciences center that serves Iowa and the region, as well as patients referred from the United States and overseas. The Clinical Laboratories are well recognized for providing outstanding and comprehensive care to the patients we serve. The breadth and depth of services provided are amongst the best in the country. The educational programs that the department participates in includes medical students, clinical laboratory scientists as well as biomedical scientists. To learn more: https://medicine.uiowa.edu/pathology/about-us

MLT Qualifications:

         Bachelor's degree in a chemical, biological, clinical laboratory science, or medical technology program from an accredited institution, OR

         Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) or eligible from American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or National Credentialing Agency (NCA), OR

         Successfully completed an official US military medical laboratory procedures training course of at least 50 weeks duration and have held the military enlisted occupational specialty of Medical Laboratory Specialist (Laboratory Technician) is required.

         Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.

         Certification from American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or National Credentialing Agency (NCA) as a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) is highly desirable.

MLS Qualifications:

         A Bachelor's degree in a chemical, biological, clinical laboratory science, or medical technology program from an accredited institution is required.

         Six (6) months - one (1) year clinical laboratory experience, which may include program training experience, is required.

         Certification as a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) or a categorical/specialist certification in the appropriate laboratory discipline from American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or certification as a Medical Technologist (MT) from Health Education and Welfare (HEW) is required.

         Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.

         Experience in transfusion medicine (blood bank or transfusion services) is desirable

Position and Application details:

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

Pathology will be filling this position at one of two levels. The Medical Lab Technician classification salary starts at $48,500, and the Medical Lab Scientist salary starts at $53,500. Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. You must indicate in your cover letter the level of classification (MLT and/or MLS) you wish to be considered for or indicate both. See required qualifications for additional information.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 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.

This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.

For additional questions, please contact Brenda Carey via email at brenda-carey@uiowa.edu.

Applicant Resource Center - 

Need help submitting an application or accepting an offer? Support is available! 

OurApplicant Resource Centeris now open in the Fountain Lobby at the Main Hospital. 

Hours: 

Monday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

Tuesday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

Wednesday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

Friday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

Or by appointment

ContactTAHealthCareSupport@healthcare.uiowa.eduto schedule an appointment or just stop by.  

Visit the website for more information: Application Resource Center | University of Iowa Health Care 

Additional Information
  • Classification Title: Medical Lab Scientist
  • Appointment Type: SEIU
  • Schedule: Full-time
  • Work Modality Options: On Campus
Compensation
  • Pay Level: 6
  • Starting Salary Minimum: 53,500
  • Starting Salary Maximum: to Commensurate
Contact Information
  • Organization: Healthcare
  • Contact Name: Brenda Carey
  • Contact Email: brenda-carey@uiowa.edu

What University Of Iowa employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply