ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Undergraduate 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 ... A combination of undergraduate coursework and related experience may be considered. Preferred ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsUndergraduate Lab JobsUndergraduate Lab Assistant JobsUndergraduate Lab Assistant Jobs in Iowa

Undergraduate Lab Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$19

$27

How much do undergraduate lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for undergraduate lab assistant in Iowa is $19.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an undergraduate lab assistant?

Undergraduate lab assistants are college students who support laboratory operations in academic or research settings. Their duties typically include preparing materials, setting up equipment, assisting with experiments, cleaning up after labs, and sometimes helping instructors or researchers with data collection and analysis. These positions offer valuable hands-on experience for students interested in scientific fields, and they help students develop practical skills relevant to their coursework and future careers.

What are the typical responsibilities of an undergraduate lab assistant?

As an Undergraduate Lab Assistant, your weekly responsibilities typically include preparing materials and equipment for experiments, assisting students and faculty during laboratory sessions, and maintaining a clean and organized lab environment. You may also be tasked with conducting inventory checks, disposing of chemical waste properly, and helping with data entry or record-keeping. Collaboration with graduate students, lab supervisors, and other assistants is common, allowing you to gain hands-on experience and learn best practices in laboratory safety and procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an undergraduate lab assistant?

To excel as an Undergraduate Lab Assistant, you need a basic understanding of laboratory techniques, safety protocols, and relevant coursework in the scientific field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data entry software, and occasionally inventory management tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and reliability help you stand out in supporting research or instructional activities. These skills are crucial for maintaining a safe, efficient lab environment and ensuring accurate experimental results.

What is the difference between Undergraduate Lab Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectUndergraduate Lab AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or current college student, some coursework in scienceAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in science or related field
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, research projects, university settingsClinical, industrial, or research laboratories in various industries
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily educational institutions and research labsHospitals, biotech firms, manufacturing, and research facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level research roles and internshipsCompared for technical roles requiring more experience and certification

The Undergraduate Lab Assistant typically supports research and lab activities in academic settings, often as a student role. In contrast, a Laboratory Technician usually has formal technical training or education, working in more specialized or industrial labs. While both roles involve lab work, the Technician role generally requires more credentials and offers broader career opportunities.

Can you get an undergraduate lab assistant job with no experience?

Undergraduate lab assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as training is typically provided on the job. However, having basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and relevant coursework can improve chances of hiring. Some roles may prefer or require familiarity with specific tools or techniques, but many are open to students with limited or no previous lab work experience.

How much does an undergraduate lab assistant get paid?

The pay for an undergraduate lab assistant typically ranges from minimum wage to around $12 to $15 per hour, depending on the institution, location, and level of experience. Some positions may offer additional benefits or stipends, especially if they involve specialized skills or research responsibilities.

What degree do you need for an undergraduate lab assistant?

An undergraduate lab assistant typically needs to be enrolled in a college or university, pursuing a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or engineering. While specific degree requirements vary by institution, relevant coursework and basic laboratory skills are often preferred. Some positions may also require familiarity with lab equipment and safety protocols.

What are popular job titles related to Undergraduate Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Undergraduate Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Undergraduate Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Undergraduate Lab Assistant jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Undergraduate Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Undergraduate Lab Assistant job openings:

Undergraduate Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Undergraduate 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 $39,555 per year, or $19 per hour.

Chemistry Lab Coordinator

University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Coordinate and oversee prep room activities to ensure laboratories are prepared safely, accurately, and efficiently for instruction.

  • Coordinate preparation, setup, and support activities for undergraduate chemistry instructional laboratories.

  • Monitor inventory levels, order laboratory supplies and materials, and maintain records supporting instructional operations.

University Of Iowa Health Care rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

344th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Description
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and Department of Chemistry are seeking a Chemistry Lab Coordinator (Instructional Services Coordinator).
Reporting to the Administrator of Undergraduate Instruction, this position supports the daily operation of undergraduate instructional laboratories and preparation facilities. The role coordinates laboratory preparation, chemical and solution preparation, inventory management, equipment readiness, safety compliance, and instructional support activities for freshmen chemistry laboratory courses. The Laboratory Coordinator works closely with faculty, teaching assistants, staff, and student employees to help maintain a safe, efficient, and student-focused laboratory environment.
Join our team and contribute to an exceptional undergraduate learning experience.
Key Responsibilities
  • Prep Room Management: Coordinate and oversee prep room activities to ensure laboratories are prepared safely, accurately, and efficiently for instruction.
  • Laboratory Operations: Coordinate preparation, setup, and support activities for undergraduate chemistry instructional laboratories.
  • Inventory and Purchasing: Monitor inventory levels, order laboratory supplies and materials, and maintain records supporting instructional operations.
  • Experiment Testing and Instructional Support: Test laboratory procedures and experiments, assist with implementation, and support troubleshooting of laboratory activities.
  • Equipment and Technology Support: Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and instructional technologies.
  • Student Employee Coordination: Train, schedule, supervise, and coordinate undergraduate student employees supporting laboratory operations.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with faculty, teaching assistants, and laboratory staff to support effective undergraduate laboratory instruction.
  • Safety and Compliance: Implement and ensure adherence to departmental, university, and regulatory health and safety requirements.

For a full job description or questions about this position, please send an email to libby-kleppe@uiowa.edu
Qualifications
Education Required
  • Bachelor's degree in chemistry or closely related field with sufficient chemistry knowledge and coursework to be able to perform the duties of the position.

Required Qualifications
  • Demonstrated experience in a laboratory environment, such as academic or commercial preparatory laboratories, undergraduate research laboratories, or advanced laboratory coursework.
  • Working knowledge of laboratory safety practices, SOPs, and proper procedures for handling and disposing of chemical waste.
  • Proficiency with common technology tools, including Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and internet-based research tools.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to convey complex information clearly to faculty, staff, and students.
  • Demonstrated organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple tasks, establish priorities, and solve problems independently.
  • Professional experience working effectively with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives.

Desired Qualifications
  • Advanced coursework in Chemistry.
  • One or more years of laboratory experience in an academic preparatory, instructional, or research laboratory.
  • Experience writing SOPs or developing technical laboratory documentation.
  • Experience with advanced chemical instrumentation or laboratory management systems.
  • Working knowledge of academic instructional systems such as ICON or related platforms.

Position and Application Details
For additional job details and to apply please visit https://jobs.uiowa.edu/ and access requisition #26004865.
Pay Level 3A
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a "Relevant File" to the submission.
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 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. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. Please note that this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship in the United States.
For additional questions, please contact: Libby Kleppe at libby-kleppe@uiowa.edu
About Iowa
Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success. Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance. Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation. Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.

What University Of Iowa Health Care employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply