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State Library Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Independence is a progressive community sporting a newer public library, trails, and Cedar Rock state park which includes a Frank Lloyd Wright home. Independence is 30 minutes from Waterloo/Cedar ...

Independence is a progressive community sporting a newer public library, trails, and Cedar Rock state park which includes a Frank Lloyd Wright home. Independence is 30 minutes from Waterloo/Cedar ...

Physician Assistant

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$85K - $130K/yr

Independence is a progressive community sporting a newer public library, trails, and Cedar Rock state park which includes a Frank Lloyd Wright home. Independence is 30 minutes from Waterloo/Cedar ...

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State Library information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$17

$25

How much do state library jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for state library in Iowa is $17.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $19.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between State Library vs Public Librarian?

AspectState LibraryPublic Librarian
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS)Master's degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent
Work EnvironmentStatewide or regional library system, often in administrative or specialized rolesPublic community libraries, schools, or local government libraries
Employer & IndustryState government, regional or statewide library agenciesLocal government, community centers, or public libraries
Common Search & ComparisonFocus on statewide services, collections, and policiesFocus on serving local community needs and programs

While both roles require a Master's in Library Science and involve library services, a State Library typically operates at a statewide level, managing regional collections and policies. A Public Librarian works directly with local communities, providing access to resources and programs tailored to residents. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the library industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a State Librarian, and why are they important?

To thrive as a State Librarian, you need expertise in library science, information management, and leadership, typically supported by a master’s degree in library science (MLS/MLIS) and relevant professional experience. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital archives, and information technology tools is crucial. Strong communication, organizational, and advocacy skills help you build partnerships and lead diverse teams effectively. These skills and qualities are vital for advancing library services, managing statewide initiatives, and ensuring equitable public access to information.

What opportunities for professional development and advancement are available for employees at a State Library?

State Libraries often prioritize the growth and advancement of their staff by offering access to continuing education, certification programs, and specialized training in library science and information management. Employees may also participate in conferences, committee work, and collaborative projects with other institutions, which can expand their professional networks and skills. Advancement opportunities typically include promotions to supervisory, managerial, or specialist roles, and staff are encouraged to pursue leadership positions as they gain experience. Many State Libraries also support staff in obtaining advanced degrees or credentials relevant to library and information services.

What is a State Library?

A State Library is a government-funded institution that serves as the primary library for a state or territory, providing access to a wide range of information resources, historical documents, and public services. It often preserves important state records, offers research support, and promotes literacy and education initiatives. State Libraries also support local libraries and the public by providing interlibrary loans, digital collections, and professional development for librarians.
What cities in Iowa are hiring for State Library jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most State Library job openings:
Infographic showing various State Library job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,499 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Soil and Plant Microbiomes

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Soil and Plant Microbiomes

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Iowa State University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

310th of 539 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Title:
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Soil and Plant Microbiomes
Appointment Type:
Post Doc/Trainee
Job Description:
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will design, conduct, and manage research on soil and plant root microbiomes using advanced molecular techniques, including Nanopore and Illumina sequencing, microbial cultivation, and nitrogen isotope approaches to quantify microbial and plant nitrogen use.
This position will coordinate field and laboratory sample collection efforts, collaborate with research partners, and supervise and train research assistants to ensure high-quality data and sample integrity. The Postdoc will perform bioinformatic and statistical analyses of microbiome, soil, and plant datasets using tools such as R or Python, integrating findings to interpret biological and ecological relationships.
The role also includes preparing data summaries, reports, manuscripts, and grant materials, as well as presenting research findings to funding agencies and scientific audiences.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
Ph. D. in microbiology or related field.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience conducting independent research involving microbial communities, including proficiency in DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, and sequencing using Nanopore and/or Illumina platforms.
  • Experience cultivating microbes under aerobic and hypoxic conditions, including phenotypic and genotypic characterization.
  • Experience using bioinformatic tools and pipelines for amplicon sequencing-based microbiome analysis, as well as microbial whole genome assembly and annotation.

Department/Program & College Description:
The Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology and the Department of Entomology officially merged as of September 1, 2022. The new department is known as the Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology, and Microbiology (PPEM). The overall mission of the Department is to benefit society through research, teaching, and extension activities that improve pest management and prevent disease. Collectively, the Department consists of about 100 faculty, staff, and students who are engaged in research, teaching, and extension activities that are central to the mission of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Department Unit/Website:
Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:
  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
  • Life insurance and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellbeing program
  • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Proposed Start Date:
July 1, 2026
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Grade:
Post Docs
Original Posting Date:
June 15, 2026
Posting Close Date:
June 21, 2026
Job Requisition Number:
R19377
Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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