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Mlt Program Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

Mlt Program information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$28.3K

$38.7K

$54.7K

How much do mlt program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for mlt program in Des Moines, IA is $38,727.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,200.00 and $38,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an MLT program?

MLT programs, or Medical Laboratory Technician programs, are specialized educational courses designed to train individuals to perform laboratory tests and procedures that help doctors diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. These programs typically combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training in laboratory settings. Graduates of MLT programs are prepared to work in hospitals, clinics, research labs, and other healthcare facilities. Most programs result in an associate degree or certificate, and graduates may be eligible for certification by professional organizations such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

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

To thrive as a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT), you need a solid background in laboratory science, attention to detail, and typically an associate degree in clinical laboratory science along with national certification. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), automated analyzers, and quality control protocols is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help MLTs excel in fast-paced, accuracy-driven environments. These competencies ensure reliable test results, support patient care, and maintain high laboratory standards.

What does a typical week look like for a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) in a clinical lab?

As a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT), your week typically involves performing a variety of diagnostic tests on patient samples, maintaining and calibrating laboratory equipment, and ensuring accurate documentation of results. You'll collaborate closely with other lab professionals, nurses, and physicians to deliver timely test results that support patient care. The workflow often includes rotating shifts, handling urgent cases, and adhering to strict safety and quality protocols. While the pace can be demanding, the role offers valuable hands-on experience and exposure to advanced laboratory technology, making it a strong foundation for career growth in clinical laboratory science.

What is the difference between Mlt Program vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectMlt ProgramMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsCertificate or diploma from an accredited Mlt ProgramCertification often required, such as ASCP or AMT
Work EnvironmentEducational setting, training labs, or entry-level labsClinical laboratories, hospitals, diagnostic labs
Industry UsagePrepares students for certification and employmentPerforms lab tests, reports results

The Mlt Program is an educational pathway that prepares students to become certified Medical Laboratory Technicians. Once completed, graduates typically seek certification and employment as Medical Laboratory Technicians, who perform diagnostic tests in clinical labs. The program focuses on training, while the technician role involves hands-on testing and reporting. Both are essential in healthcare, with the program serving as the foundation for the technician career.

Infographic showing various Mlt Program job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,727 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Certified Medical Assistant - LAB (CMA/MLT/LabTech)

UnityPoint Health

Waukee, IA • On-site

$28K - $38K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

304th of 895 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
UnityPoint Clinic
Certified Medical Assistant - LAB
Waukee Med Park
Waukee, IA
Monday-Friday 7:45AM-5:30PM
Full-time + benefits
We are seeking a compassionate and detail-oriented Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) to join our growing clinic team in Waukee, Iowa. This position is dedicated to supporting laboratory services and ensuring a positive patient experience throughout the specimen collection process. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong clinical skills, excellent customer service, and a commitment to quality, safety, and accuracy in all aspects of patient care and laboratory operations.
*Will consider a Clinic Lab Tech or Medical Lab Tech in place of CMA!
Why UnityPoint Health?
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.
Responsibilities
• Perform venipuncture, capillary blood collection, and other specimen collection procedures according to established protocols
• Prepare, label, process, and package laboratory specimens for testing and transport while maintaining specimen integrity
• Verify patient identification and accurately document laboratory orders and specimen collection information within the electronic health record (EHR)
• Educate patients regarding laboratory testing procedures and answer questions to ensure a positive patient experience
• Monitor and maintain laboratory supplies, equipment, and inventory levels; coordinate ordering and restocking as needed
• Perform quality control procedures and maintain compliance with laboratory, clinic, regulatory, and safety standards
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment
• Communicate effectively with providers, clinical staff, patients, and external laboratory partners regarding testing, results, and specimen requirements
• Assist with patient care activities and clinical support duties as needed
• Protect patient confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA and organizational policies and procedures
Qualifications
  • If Lab Tech - High School Diploma required
  • If MLT - Med Lab Tech accredited program completed + certification prior to starting required
  • If CMA: Valid and current certification in the state of Iowa for Medical Assisting required
    • Graduate of an accredited program for Medical Assistants (Certificate, diploma, or Associate's Degree) required.
    • Certified or Registered Medical Assistant through one of the following required:
      • National Healthcare Association
      • American Association of Medical Assistants
      • National Center for Competency Testing
      • National Certified Medical Assistant
      • National Association of Health Professionals
      • American Registry of Medical Assistants
      • American Allied Health
      • American Medical Technologists
    • Prior experience in a clinical or outpatient setting preferred
    • Familiarity with EPIC a plus!
  • For positions within UnityPoint Clinic, team members may be required to work at or to float to other locations to support optimized staffing

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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