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Vet Lab Tech Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

... Technology International ® pool finishes, and Techniseal ® sands and sealant technologies. Job ... Experience with lab and testing procedures preferred * Experience with safety programs and ...

... Technology International ® pool finishes, and Techniseal ® sands and sealant technologies. Job ... Experience with lab and testing procedures preferred * Experience with safety programs and ...

Vet Lab Tech information

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 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 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.

What job categories do people searching Vet Lab Tech jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Vet Lab Tech jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Vet Lab Tech job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 68% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 28% Remote job distribution.
Vet Tech I Temporary - Large Animal Intensive Care Unit

Vet Tech I Temporary - Large Animal Intensive Care Unit

Iowa State University

Ames, IA

Part-time

Posted 15 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

305th of 529 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Title:Vet Tech I Temporary - Large Animal Intensive Care UnitJob Group:MeritRequired Minimum Qualifications: Associate or Bachelor's degree in a veterinary technology program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) or the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), and Registered, licensed, or certified as a veterinary technician within one year of the start date.Job Description:

Job Description:

At Iowa State University's Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center (LVMC), you'll work alongside a collaborative team of experts dedicated to excellence in diagnosis, treatment, and education-while making a meaningful impact on the future of veterinary medicine.

Under the direction and supervision of a licensed veterinarian, this position provides advanced care for ill and injured equine and farm animal patients. The technician supports a wide range of medical and surgical procedures and plays an integral role in a dynamic teaching environment that includes veterinary students, interns, and residents.

This role offers the opportunity to work with a diverse population of large animal species in a fastpaced hospital setting, contributing to high-quality patient care, efficient hospital operations, and hands-on clinical training.

Under the direction and supervision of a licensed Veterinarian, provides intermediate care for ill and injured animal patients or animals used in a research or hospital setting. May perform veterinary care, animal husbandry, and basic technical skills with fourth-year veterinary students. Provides assistance to students, Veterinarians, and investigative staff in their treatment of animals, teaching, or research functions. Position operates within standard guidelines and alternatives that are known, and any deviation from such requires prior approval. Guidance and mentorship can be provided by Veterinary Technician II or III.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities

Assists with basic nursing care on American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification level I and II patients, which are considered healthy or with mild systemic disease. Nursing care to include but not limited to: monitoring body functions (temperature, respiration, heartbeat, amount and frequency of food consumptions, defecation, urination etc.) and noting abnormalities; placing and maintaining intravenous catheters; administering fluids and medications orally, parenterally, and enterally; and performing other basic treatments.

Collects and processes samples for research, diagnostic, and clinical purposes.

Assists with basic preparatory procedures on various animal species and assists staff members in surgical, medical, or laboratory procedure preparation, including instrument and supply set up.

Administers anesthesia and monitors patient response through the recovery period for ASA I-II patients.

Maintains orderly and sanitary work areas for clinical, teaching, and research facilities.

Stocks and organizes patient exam rooms, treatment areas, holding areas and operating rooms.

May assist with entering hospital costs and medical records into the computer to create accurate records for billing accounts.

Assists with set up, inventory, maintenance, security, and repairs for equipment and instruments used in surgical procedures, emergencies and/or lab sessions.

Utilizes ultrasound machines and x-rays, assist with MRI, or other related imaging equipment for patient diagnostics.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of animal health and welfare - animal isolation, sample collection, medical treatment, nursing and monitoring, pre & post-surgical requirements including room and supply preparation.

Knowledge of pharmacology - dosage, calculations, and usage.

Knowledge of animal husbandry - animal feeding, watering, grooming, handling, safe transporting, and environmental requirements.

Knowledge of record maintenance - collecting and recording data.

Knowledge of trimming, clipping, or grooming animals.

Knowledge of teaching and/or demonstration of safe animal handling.

Knowledge of regulatory requirements (Animal Welfare Act, Public Health Service, etc.).

Ability to handle, restrain, move, load, and unload animals.

Ability to administer medication - topical, injectable, oral, and rectal.

Ability to check and interpret vital signs.

Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 70 pounds.

Ability to instruct and demonstrate veterinary techniques in handling, grooming, and nursing animals.

Ability to interact in a professional capacity.

Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others.

Ability to prioritize daily tasks.

Ability to work in high stress environments.

Knowledge of computers, computerized medical record systems, and word processing software, such as Microsoft Word and Excel.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with restraining animals.

  • Experience working in veterinary setting.

  • Prior experience with large animals

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.

To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
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.

Appointment Type:Temporary (Fixed Term)Proposed End Date or Length of Term:April 27, 2027Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Part timePay Grade:7601aOriginal Posting Date:April 14, 2026Posting Close Date:Job Requisition Number:R18988

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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