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Microbiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Cargill

Microbiology Lab Technician

Mason City, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

JOB PURPOSE AND IMPACT The Microbiology Laboratory Technician will assist with tests performed in ... Knowledge of lab procedures and techniques. * Knowledge of microbiology, preparation of culture ...

Cargill

Microbiology Lab Technician

Mason City, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

JOB PURPOSE AND IMPACT The Microbiology Laboratory Technician will assist with tests performed in ... Knowledge of lab procedures and techniques. * Knowledge of microbiology, preparation of culture ...

Cargill

Microbiology Lab Technician

Mason City, IA

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

JOB PURPOSE AND IMPACT The Microbiology Laboratory Technician will assist with tests performed in ... Knowledge of lab procedures and techniques. * Knowledge of microbiology, preparation of culture ...

Eurofins

Laboratory Technician I - Microbiology

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

Microbiology - Mid shift - Mon - Fri (noon - 8:30pm) or Tue - Fri (noon - 8:30 pm) + Sat (9am - 5 ... assist others in maintaining a clean, safe work environment * Registration of incoming samples (as ...

Acro Service Corporation

Be Seen First

Biology Lab Technician

Johnston, IA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

With guidance from supervision, this person will assist technical personnel in general laboratory ... Requirements: • Bachelor's degree in Microbiology or other related science. • Previous ...

Actalent

Research Associate

Des Moines, IA

$23/hr

Perform routine microbiology laboratory activities, including plating, meat plating, culture ... Support daily lab operations to ensure experiments run smoothly and timelines are met. * Ensure ...

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Microbiology Lab Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$21

$32

How much do microbiology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology lab assistant in Iowa is $21.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Microbiology Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microbiology Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of microbiological techniques, laboratory safety protocols, and at least an associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, aseptic techniques, and data management systems such as LIMS is typically expected. Strong attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are essential soft skills for accurate sample processing and teamwork. These competencies are vital for ensuring precise test results, maintaining lab safety, and supporting research or diagnostic objectives.

What does a Microbiology Lab Assistant do?

A Microbiology Lab Assistant supports microbiologists by preparing samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, and conducting basic laboratory tests. They help ensure experiments run smoothly by following strict protocols and keeping the lab organized and sterile. Their daily tasks may also include labeling specimens, recording data, and disposing of biohazardous materials properly. This role is essential for maintaining safety and accuracy in microbiological research and testing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Microbiology Lab Assistants and how can they be addressed?

Microbiology Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict sterile techniques to avoid contamination, accurately following protocols for sample preparation, and managing multiple tasks during busy periods. To address these, it’s important to develop strong organizational skills, pay close attention to detail, and communicate effectively with team members. Regularly reviewing standard operating procedures and participating in team meetings can also help ensure quality and efficiency in the lab environment.

What is the difference between Microbiology Lab Assistant vs Microbiology Technician?

AspectMicrobiology Lab AssistantMicrobiology Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationAssociate degree or relevant certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, hospitals, research facilitiesLaboratories, research centers, healthcare settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sample preparation, cleaning, and basic tasksPerforming tests, analyzing samples, recording data
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in healthcare, research, and educational labsCommonly employed in clinical and industrial microbiology labs

While both roles support microbiology labs, Microbiology Lab Assistants typically handle basic tasks and support functions, whereas Microbiology Technicians perform more detailed testing and analysis. The roles often overlap in work environment and industry but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

What Does a Microbiology Lab Assistant Do?

A microbiology lab assistant provides support for scientists and researchers in a microbiology lab where they study microbes, viruses, fungi, parasites, bacteria, and other microscopic organisms. In this career, you may work on sample collection, aid in the testing of cultures and samples, maintain a specimen record, and sterilize and clean equipment after testing. Some labs may also expect you to carry out other administrative duties. Your responsibilities as a microbiology lab assistant may also include recording data and maintaining records.

More about Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiology Lab jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Microbiology Lab jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in IA? For Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,762 per year, or $21 per hour.
Microbiology Lab Technician

Microbiology Lab Technician

Cargill

Mason City, IA • On-site

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Cargill rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 219 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 49 rated food wholesalers

Job description

Cargill is a family company committed to providing food and agricultural solutions to nourish the world in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way. We sit at the heart of the supply chain, partnering with producers and customers to source, make and deliver products that are vital for living. By providing customers with life's essentials, we enable businesses to grow, communities to prosper, and consumers to live well.
This position is in our Food Enterprise where we are committed to serving food manufacturers, food service customers, and retailers with a complete range of innovative ingredients and branded products. Our portfolio includes poultry, beef, egg, alternative protein, salt, oils, starches, sweeteners, cocoa and chocolate.
JOB PURPOSE AND IMPACT
The Microbiology Laboratory Technician will assist with tests performed in the laboratory. In this role, you will ensure all testing is performed in accordance with standards, laboratory procedures and established company guidelines.
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES
  • Sample set up including preparation of culture media, decontamination of wastes and performing monthly environmental tests in the laboratory.
  • Performs microbiological testing as per scope and miscellaneous tests as assigned by Laboratory Supervisor.
  • Identify nonconformities, potential nonconformities and laboratory process improvements on a continuous basis and report results to customers.
  • Maintain the laboratory environment and supplies including inventory of reagents, monitoring and maintenance of equipment, rotation of media stocks and disposal of retain samples.
  • Handle complex clerical, administrative, technical or customer support issues under minimal supervision, while escalating only the most complex issues to appropriate staff.
  • Other duties as assigned.

#LI-AM11 #LI-Onsite
QUALIFICATIONS
MINIMUM
  • High school diploma, secondary education level or equivalent.
  • Knowledge of lab procedures and techniques.
  • Knowledge of microbiology, preparation of culture media, laboratory equipment and basic laboratory techniques.
  • Availability to work weekends and holidays.

PREFERRED
  • Bachelor's degree in microbiology, lab or food science.
  • Knowledge of ISO 17025 or Quality Management Systems.
  • Ability to follow directions and work with minimal supervision.
  • Analytical, well organized and detail oriented.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
  • Strong level of competence with Microsoft Word, Excel and additional types of software.
  • Related work experience working in a microbiology laboratory within the food industry.

APPLICANT INFORMATION
  • This position is posted both internally and externally
  • Position is based in Mason City, Iowa
  • Relocation assistance is NOT provided for this role
  • The business will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position

Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Vet

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About Cargill

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cargill was founded in 1865 as a single grain warehouse in Iowa, U.S. Since then, we’ve grown to become a global partner connecting people around the planet. But one thing has remained constant over the years: our purpose of nourishing the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way. Cargill is committed to conducting business with integrity, operating responsibly, enriching communities and nourishing the world. In the fiscal year 2021, Cargill provided $110.5 million in total charitable contributions in 56 countries to support our communities. Cargill businesses and employee-led groups partner with local civic, nonprofit and non-governmental organizations on programs and projects that improve food security and nutrition; support human rights, equity and inclusion; strengthen farmer livelihoods; and advance our commitments in the areas of land use, water and climate.

Industry

Food and drink manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

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