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Quality Control Lab Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

QA/QC Lab Technician - Ethanol Plant

Lakota, IA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

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 ...

QA/QC Lab Technician - Ethanol Plant

Lakota, IA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

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 ...

Manages all Biological Quality Control Operations for the Charles City site to ensure all vaccines meet US, EU and International regulatory requirements. Advise Management of products not meeting ...

Manages all Biological Quality Control Operations for the Charles City site to ensure all vaccines meet US, EU and International regulatory requirements. Advise Management of products not meeting ...

Manages all Biological Quality Control Operations for the Charles City site to ensure all vaccines meet US, EU and International regulatory requirements. Advise Management of products not meeting ...

The QC Supervisor will be responsible for directing the laboratory workflow for daily testing of ... Maintain and manage cGMP and general lab systems at defined levels of compliance. * Draft and ...

The QC Supervisor will be responsible for directing the laboratory workflow for daily testing of ... Maintain and manage cGMP and general lab systems at defined levels of compliance. * Draft and ...

Quality Control Technician

Alden, IA

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

... and another lab equipment required. * Work in and around aggregate processing plants to obtain ... Report and communicate test results internally and externally (Management, DOT, and other customers ...

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Quality Control Lab Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$28.6K

$76.4K

$121.6K

How much do quality control lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for quality control lab manager in Iowa is $76,384.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,800.00 and $93,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a quality control lab manager do?

A Quality Control Lab Manager oversees the daily operations of a laboratory to ensure that products meet industry and safety standards. They supervise lab staff, develop testing protocols, review test results, and maintain compliance with regulatory guidelines. The manager is also responsible for training employees, troubleshooting equipment, and implementing improvements to lab processes. Their work is crucial in guaranteeing the quality and safety of products before they reach consumers.

What is the difference between Quality Control Lab Manager vs Quality Control Technician?

AspectQuality Control Lab ManagerQuality Control Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in science or related field; often certifications in quality managementAssociate's or bachelor's degree; relevant technical certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, overseeing testing processes and staffLaboratories, performing tests and data collection
ResponsibilitiesSupervising testing activities, managing staff, ensuring complianceConducting tests, recording results, maintaining equipment

The main difference between a Quality Control Lab Manager and a Quality Control Technician lies in their responsibilities and level of oversight. The manager oversees testing operations, manages staff, and ensures quality standards, while the technician performs the actual testing and data collection. Both roles require relevant scientific credentials and work in laboratory environments, but the manager holds a broader supervisory role.

What are some common challenges faced by a quality control lab manager, and how can they be addressed?

Quality Control Lab Managers often face challenges such as ensuring compliance with evolving regulatory standards, maintaining the accuracy and reliability of test results, and managing a diverse team of technicians. To address these issues, managers must stay updated on industry regulations, implement rigorous training programs, and foster open communication within the team. Effective use of laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and regular audits can also help maintain high-quality standards and streamline workflows.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a quality control lab manager?

To thrive as a Quality Control Lab Manager, you need a solid background in chemistry or biology, experience in laboratory operations, and often a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), analytical instrumentation, and quality standards such as ISO or GMP is typically required. Strong leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing teams and ensuring compliance. These skills and qualities are crucial to maintain product quality, regulatory adherence, and efficient laboratory performance.
What are popular job titles related to Quality Control Lab Manager jobs in Iowa? For Quality Control Lab Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Quality Control Lab Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,384 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Quality Control Lab Technician

Central Garden & Pet

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Central Garden & Pet rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Central Garden & Pet

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,192 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Central Garden & Pet

  • 97%

    97% say they get paid breaks

    say they get paid breaks

  • 94%

    94% say it is easy to take sick days

    say it is easy to take sick days

  • 94%

    94% say they don’t worry about hours

    say they don’t worry about hours

Featured by Central Garden & Pet, based on 41 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees


Job description

Description

We want to hire people who care about what they do.  At Central Life Sciences, we are proud to supply animal healthcare products throughout the United States.  Quality is a big deal, and we can’t make a quality product without employees who work safely, show up every day and are committed to their work.  If that is who you are, then we want you on our team! We are currently hiring for a Quality Control Lab Technician.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Daily production line inspections and releasing of products in a timely and efficient manner to ensure timely shipment
  • Inspection of incoming components, raw materials, and finished goods for release or rejection
  • Sample collection, shipment, and data analysis
  • Laboratory analysis of Raw Materials, Feeds, and Finished Goods
  • Knowledge of methods including GC, Densitometer, FTIR, HPLC, Aseptic Plating a plus
  • Laboratory Documentation and record maintenance
  • Method transfer and validation
  • Review and audit of manufacturing control records
  • Improve workflow processes and procedures
  • Issuance of Non-Conformances
  • Assist production with potential quality issues while packaging or formulating
  • Create and update Work Instructions
  • Maintain and review CoA’s, manufacturing records, and database sheets for incoming products
  • Support, promote and display a safe work environment
  • Special projects as assigned by QC Manager or Plant Manager

 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Associate or bachelor’s degree in a scientific or related field.
  • 2 to 5 years’ experience in quality or manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to learn basic statistical analysis.
  • Basic skills in Microsoft Word. Excel, & Access.
  • Prior lab experience.
  • Prior method transfer and validation a plus.
  • Previous experience with ANSI and AQL’s a plus.
  • Aseptic processing technique a plus.
  • ASQ and/or Lean Certification a plus.
  • SAP and LIMS knowledge a plus.

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Role requires extended periods on your feet, bending, stooping
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Able to open tightly closed drums of assorted sizes.
  • Works under regular office, laboratory, and manufacturing conditions.
  • Must be able to wear a respirator.

 BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS

  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Free Life and Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • 401k with 3% company match and annual profit-sharing bonus!
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Access to thousands of free online courses
  • Discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more!
  • Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional)
  • Referral Program with cash bonus
  • Access to on-demand pay
  • Paid parental leave
Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) is a leading consumer goods company in the pet and garden industries. Guided by the belief that home is central to life, the Company's purpose is to proudly nurture happy and healthy homes. For over 45 years, its innovative and trusted solutions have helped lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a diversified portfolio of market-leading brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Best Bully Sticks®, Cadet®, C&S®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Kaytee®, Nylabone®, Pennington®, Sevin® and Zoёcon®. With fiscal 2025 net sales of $3.1 billion, Central has strong manufacturing and logistics capabilities supported by a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. The Company is headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, and employs over 6,000 people, primarily across North America. Visit www.central.com to learn more.
 
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.
#LI-MJ1 

Working at Central Garden & Pet

Perks for frontline workers

From Central Garden & Pet, via Breakroom

  • Safety is a top priority!

  • Paid Vacation

  • Paid Holidays

  • Paid Sick Time

  • Paid Breaks

  • Consistent shift and schedule

  • Comprehensive Health Insurance

  • 401k with Company Match

  • Referral Program with Cash Bonus

  • Education Assistance

  • Paid Parental Leave

About Central Garden & Pet, in their own words

From Central Garden & Pet

Our leading consumer and professional brands provide forward-thinking, high quality products to care for your lawn, garden, pets and community. We are committed to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier and communities grow stronger.

Company values

From Central Garden & Pet

The Central Way | We Do the Right Thing | We Strive to be the Best | We are Entrepreneurial | We Win Together | We Grow Every Day | We are Passionate

Diversity and inclusion statement

From Central Garden & Pet

Central Garden & Pet is committed to building a great place to work that embraces diversity as a key pillar of our culture. This is a journey, and we are committed to listening, learning and doing the work to move forward together.


What Central Garden & Pet employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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