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Vet Lab Tech Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Micro Lab Technician III

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Reviews and follows current literature to maintain and stay current on technologies in the field of ... N/A Wells Enterprises is an EEO/AA employer M/F/Vet/Dis About Us Wells Enterprises, a Ferrero ...

Bachelor's degree in Medical Lab Science, Medical Technology, or equivalent degree (which includes ... Train veterinary students, veterinary technicians, vet tech students, residents, and new employees ...

Bachelor's degree in Medical Lab Science, Medical Technology, or equivalent degree (which includes ... Train veterinary students, veterinary technicians, vet tech students, residents, and new employees ...

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Vet Lab Tech information

What are some common challenges Vet Lab Techs face when working with animal samples, and how can they be managed?

Vet Lab Techs often encounter challenges such as handling stressed or aggressive animals during sample collection, ensuring samples are not contaminated, and managing a high volume of tests quickly and accurately. To manage these challenges, it's essential to follow strict safety protocols, use proper restraint techniques, and maintain organized workflows. Additionally, clear communication with veterinarians and other team members helps ensure accurate test results and a supportive work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Vet Lab Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vet Lab Tech, you need a solid background in animal science, laboratory procedures, and specimen handling, typically supported by an associate degree in veterinary technology and relevant certification. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), diagnostic equipment, and safety protocols is essential. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help you excel in processing samples and conveying results. These skills ensure accurate diagnostics, support veterinary teams, and contribute to quality animal care.

What are Vet Lab Techs?

Vet Lab Techs, or Veterinary Laboratory Technicians, are professionals who assist veterinarians by conducting laboratory tests on animal samples such as blood, urine, and tissue. Their work helps diagnose diseases, monitor animal health, and ensure accurate test results. Vet Lab Techs operate specialized equipment, maintain laboratory records, and ensure proper handling of specimens. They play an essential role in veterinary clinics, research facilities, and animal hospitals.

What is the difference between Vet Lab Tech vs Vet Assistant?

AspectVet Lab TechVet Assistant
CredentialsAssociate degree or certification in veterinary technologyHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, performing diagnostic testsClinic or hospital, assisting with patient care and basic tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesPerforming lab tests, analyzing samples, recording resultsFeeding animals, restraining pets, cleaning, assisting veterinarians

The Vet Lab Tech specializes in laboratory diagnostics and testing, requiring specific technical training. In contrast, the Vet Assistant provides general support in clinical settings, focusing on animal care and basic tasks. Both roles are essential in veterinary practices but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

Infographic showing various Vet Lab Tech job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Micro Lab Technician III

Micro Lab Technician III

Wells Enterprise

Le Mars, IA • On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Wells Enterprises rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

164th of 396 rated food and drinks producers


Job description


In addition to the accountabilities listed for the Micro Lab Technician II role, independently performs microbiological and chemical analysis on finished product, raw materials, processing and environmental samples from manufacturing plants. Provides accurate and advanced laboratory testing to detect and enumerate organisms of interest by product in compliance with the ISO 17025 regulatory standards. Prepares media and reagents as required. Performs supervisory function in absence of lab supervisor and uses theoretical/critical thinking when evaluating test errors.
  • In consultation with the lab supervisor, makes decisions in regard to interpretation/troubleshooting with test anomalies and develops corrective actions and solutions.
  • Analyzes and interprets laboratory data with generated lab reports such as Excel graphs and/or charts. Reviews and follows current literature to maintain and stay current on technologies in the field of microbiology.
  • Conducts compliance reviews for all paperwork and documentation errors with proper personnel. Areas of compliance to include: media, pathogens, ice cream testing, allergen testing, fridge and incubators, heating blocks.
  • Ensures all lab supplies are available to the technicians and orders supplies when needed.
  • Performs supervisory duties and completes scheduling in the absence of the lab supervisor.
  • Updates weekly laboratory environmental swabbing database and verifies that all sites are tested once a month.
  • Ensures all documentation is kept in storage for 2 years and discards out-of-date paperwork.
  • Participates in audits and assists in creating CA and PA's for any deficiencies.

Qualifications
In addition to the responsibilities listed above, other duties may be assigned by your supervisor, as dictated by business necessity.
  • Bachelor's degree in the areas of Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, or Food Science is preferred.
  • Minimum 1 year experience equivalent to Tech 2 or based on competencies per assessment of management.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of the practices and principles of laboratory operations, techniques and procedures utilized in areas of microbiology and chemistry.
  • Effective communication skills, both written and verbal. Strong leadership, collaboration and team development skills. Lab and Computer experience (Microsoft Office).
  • Strong attention to detail, process flow and accuracy.
  • Uses keen observations skills and good judgment to catch and prevent lab analysis errors.
  • Ability to train and mentor technicians.
  • Safely and effectively operate lab equipment.
  • Accurately evaluate color shades and quality.
  • Ability to recommend and implement corrective actions and process improvements.
  • Reports to: Corporate Lab Supervisor
  • Direct Reports: N/A
  • Indirect Reports: N/A

Wells Enterprises is an EEO/AA employer M/F/Vet/Dis
About Us
Wells Enterprises, a Ferrero company, is one of the largest ice cream manufacturers in the United States and the maker of well-loved brands including Blue Bunny, Halo Top, Bomb Pop, and Blue Ribbon Classics and today Trolli, Butterfinger 100grand, Baby Ruth, Nutella and Kinder Bueno.
Wells Enterprises is a 2 billion company employing 4,000 employees, across 4 production plants and 2 main hub locations, Chicago and Le Mars. Guided by innovation, quality, and a people-first mindset, Wells is committed to delighting consumers and developing exceptional teams.
As part of the Ferrero Group, Wells combines its strong U.S. heritage with Ferrero's global standards of excellence, offering a unique opportunity to grow within a dynamic, values-driven, and international environment.
At Wells, our people-and their experience-sit at the heart of our ambition. Learn more at www.wellsenterprisesinc.com.
What We Offer
At Wells, we're proud to support our employees with comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include paid time off (PTO). Eligible employees may also receive an annual incentive bonus based on Company performance. Learn more about our benefits here.

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