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Microbiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Harvey Mudd College

Temporary Laboratory Technician

Olin, IA · Hybrid

$18.25 - $24/hr

Laboratory Technician provides technical lab support to an introductory biology laboratory course ... assist chemistry faculty with the set-up and preparation of instructional chemistry labs. The ...

TEKBERRY

Scientist

Charles City, IA · On-site

$21/hr

... members. * Assist with monitoring and maintaining inventory levels of animal/lab supplies and ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Biology, Microbiology, Immunology, Animal Science, or related ...

Tekberry

Scientist

Charles City, IA · On-site

$21/hr

... members. * Assist with monitoring and maintaining inventory levels of animal/lab supplies and ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Biology, Microbiology, Immunology, Animal Science, or related ...

Eurofins

Laboratory Technician I - Micro

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

The company has grown from 4 employees in a small lab in France to a global network. * 800 ... Microbiology - 3rd shift (12am - 8:30am) Tue - Sat * Understand and follow Quality System documents ...

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All JobsMicrobiology Lab JobsMicrobiology Lab Assistant JobsMicrobiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Iowa

Microbiology Lab Assistant information

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$13

$21

$32

How much do microbiology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 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 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 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.

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 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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% 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.

Medical Lab Technician WEO - North Liberty Campus

University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Other

Posted 23 days ago

University Of Iowa Health Care rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

378th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

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-Medical Center North Liberty is seeking a Medical Lab Technician to provide moderately and highly complex clinical lab testing and analysis on biological specimens to provide information used in the diagnosis, prevention or treatment of disease. Will use a variety of procedures that may involve numerous detailed tests and techniques that require the use of professional judgment.
This position will be weekend option. Working hours are Saturday-Sunday, 1830-0700. This position will be responsible for working all holidays that fall on Saturday/Sunday and will be allowed two weekends off each 6-month period.
  • Perform quantitative and qualitative analysis for all levels of testing complexity on laboratory clinical and research biological specimens such as blood, tissue and body fluids.
  • Provide information to health care provider regarding test methodology and interpretation. Evaluate test results and provide support to Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS).
  • Investigate quality assurance issues involving patient samples.
  • Recommend corrective action for quality assurance.
  • Calibrate, conduct routine maintenance and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation.
  • Seek technical direction from the MLS with specific instrumentation problems.
  • Assist in reagent comparisons, evaluate results and recommend changes to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
  • Participate in evaluation of equipment and recommend products for acquisition.
  • Maintain inventory and orders supplies as needed.
  • Comply with applicable regulatory and accreditation requirements of the laboratory section.
  • Perform, record and review daily quality control associated with assigned testing.
  • Document and report variances.
  • Participate in the Quality Assurance program within the section. Identify opportunities for improvement for improvement and make recommendations for resolution of identified problems/errors.
  • May assist with writing and revising laboratory procedures according to NCCLS guidelines.
  • Assist in a positive and professional manner with bench training for the Clinical Lab Sciences Training Program within the section.
  • Maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students and the public.
Pay grade: 4
SEIU Pay Plan | University Human Resources - The University of Iowa
Qualifications
Required 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.
Desirable Qualifications:
  • Certification from American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or National Credentialing Agency (NCA) as a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) is highly desirable.
  • Previous experience in a laboratory performing moderate and/or high complexity testing in blood baking, chemistry, hematology, and/or microbiology, which may include program training experience, is highly desired.
Position and Application details:
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as required to the submission:
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter

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. For additional questions, please contact michael-lynch-2@uiowa.edu.

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