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Quality Control Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

QA/QC Lab Technician - Ethanol Plant

Lakota, IA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

You can help achieve this goal if you can: * Assist in implementing plant QA/QC program. * Implement plant QA/QC program based on best practice in the ethanol industry by sampling various points in ...

$18 - $19/hr

You'll also utilize a manual pallet jack to navigate the warehouse, performing quality control ... Additionally, having a good sense of organization will assist you in managing multiple pallets and ...

Process and report QC samples as routine samples to appropriate agencies. * Issue controlled and uncontrolled documents to enforce current policies and SOP's. * Assist QA Manager in maintaining the ...

Showing results 41-60

Quality Control Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$21

$37

How much do quality control assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality control assistant in Iowa is $21.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a quality control assistant?

Quality Control Assistants are professionals who help ensure that products or services meet established quality standards. They assist in inspecting, testing, and evaluating materials or products during various stages of production. Their responsibilities often include recording data, reporting defects, and supporting the implementation of quality assurance procedures. By maintaining high quality standards, they help companies reduce errors, improve customer satisfaction, and comply with industry regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a quality control assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Quality Control Assistant, you need strong attention to detail, basic understanding of quality assurance principles, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industry-specific inspection tools, measurement instruments, and software such as Microsoft Excel or specialized quality management systems is often required. Excellent organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively set top performers apart. These skills are crucial for ensuring products consistently meet quality standards and for supporting efficient production processes.

What are some common challenges quality control assistants face when ensuring product consistency, and how can they overcome them?

Quality Control Assistants often encounter challenges such as identifying subtle defects in products, maintaining accurate records under time pressure, and effectively communicating quality issues to production teams. Overcoming these challenges requires keen attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to collaborate with colleagues from different departments. Regular training on inspection standards and open communication with supervisors can help QC Assistants stay updated and maintain high-quality results.

What is the difference between Quality Control Assistant vs Quality Inspector?

AspectQuality Control AssistantQuality Inspector
CertificationsBasic quality assurance training, sometimes certifications like Six Sigma or ISO awarenessMore advanced certifications often preferred, such as Certified Quality Inspector (CQI)
Work EnvironmentAssist in quality checks, support documentation, and process monitoring in manufacturing or production settingsConducts detailed inspections, tests products, and ensures compliance with standards on the production line
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, food production, and assembly industries as entry-level or support roleCommonly employed in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and electronics industries for quality assurance

While both roles focus on quality assurance, the Quality Control Assistant typically supports inspection processes and documentation, whereas the Quality Inspector performs detailed product inspections and testing. The roles often overlap, but the inspector usually has more specialized training and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Quality Control jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Quality Control jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Quality Control Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Quality Control Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Quality Control Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Quality Control Assistant job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Quality Control Assistant jobs in IA?

For Quality Control Assistant jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Quality Control Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,615 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

QA/QC Lab Technician - Ethanol Plant

Valero

Lakota, IA • On-site

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


Valero rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 87 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Valero is the best-in-class producer of essential fuels and products that are foundational to modern life. We invite you to join our ~10,000 employees to drive exceptional results for our company, the energy industry and our community.

As a QA/QC Lab Technician you will implement the quality assurance (QA/QC) program for the ethanol plant to ensure maximum production quantity and quality, while supporting the policies, goals, and objectives of the company.

At Valero, we are committed to advancing the future of energy through innovation, ingenuity and unmatched execution. You can help achieve this goal if you can:

  • Assist in implementing plant QA/QC program.
  • Implement plant QA/QC program based on best practice in the ethanol industry by sampling various points in the process and conducting QA/QC tests.
  • Ensure accuracy of analysis of samples and provide results in a timely manner.
  • Monitor use and inventory of laboratory chemicals and supplies.
  • Operate, maintain, and calibrate laboratory equipment.
  • Review reports, analyze data and make recommendations for adjusting process conditions to ensure that QA/QC standards are met.
  • Maintain safety, health and environmental policies and procedures.
  • Ensure city, county, state, and federal regulations relating to the QA/QC laboratory are met at all times.
  • Participate in the safety program for the QA/QC laboratory.
  • Maintain a clean and orderly work environment.
  • Demonstrate teamwork and take initiative in daily work.
  • Assist coordinating activities with other departments.
  • Communicate directly with production department to ensure effective participation by the process operators in the implementation of QA/QC policies and procedures.
  • Implement programs and procedures required to ensure laboratory and plant cleanliness.
  • Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the ethanol process.
This position is hourly nonexempt status, which means you are eligible for overtime pay.

Minimum Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Minimum one year of experience in a laboratory setting or an Associate's degree (or higher) in a related scientific or technical field required.
  • Able and willing to work on-site and in-person, required.

Preferred Requirements: 

  • Bachelor's (or higher level) degree in a related scientific or technical field preferred.
  • Experience with implementing effective QA/QC programs preferred.
  • Experience operating and troubleshooting automated laboratory equipment (such as HPLC or GC) preferred.
  • Experience with software programs such as Office, LIMS, Pi or SAP preferred.
  • Experience with Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) preferred.

Need more reasons to work for a company that is both professionally challenging and culturally rewarding?  Take a look at some of our best-in-class benefits:

  • Competitive Pay and Annual Bonus Program
  • 100% match on 401(K) up to 7%, plus additional discretionary 3% annual company contribution
  • Comprehensive Healthcare and Wellness Programs

Benefits described above are highlights only, subject to an employee's eligibility and work location.

Discover more about Lakota and how we're making a difference there. 

Valero's pre-employment process includes successful completion of a background check and pre-employment drug screen.

Valero's employees and team-focused culture drive our success. We're invested in our dedicated workforce through a comprehensive, customizable benefits package, while supporting a caring culture that delivers a rewarding work environment built on teamwork, excellence and career growth. To explore the ways we build a stronger team, visit Valero.com/Careers.

Valero is an EEO Employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to legally protected status, including race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

Please be advised, if you are viewing this position on a website that lists an estimated salary rate/range, it was not provided by Valero.  Valero's market specific salary rate/range will be provided during the recruiting process and tends to be higher than what is estimated by such websites.  

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