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Water Lab Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

CYNET SYSTEMS

Laboratory Technician

Johnston, IA · On-site

$22/hr

... watering, harvesting, and seed handling for wheat primarily and other crops. * Assist with experiments including collecting data, maintaining records, executing lab analysis requests, and ...

EIGHT MILE PETS dba Pet Supplies Plus

Team Member

Ames, IA

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

... lab who loves to fetch * stop to greet weekly regular Bruno the Chihuahua when he comes in with his human mom * show a fourth grader how to test the water in his fish tank * set an example for the ...

EIGHT MILE PETS dba Pet Supplies Plus

Team Member

Ames, IA · On-site

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

... lab who loves to fetch * stop to greet weekly regular Bruno the Chihuahua when he comes in with his human mom * show a fourth grader how to test the water in his fish tank * set an example for the ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Laboratory Technician

Johnston, IA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Perform daily greenhouse plant care such as checking for watering needs, harvesting, discarding plants, seed processing and handling for corn, soybean, wheat, and other crops. * Move carts of plants ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Laboratory Technician

Johnston, IA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Perform daily plant care, including seeding, pollinating, transplanting, watering, harvesting, and seed handling for wheat and other crops. * Collect and prepare plant tissue samples for laboratory ...

All JobsWater Lab JobsWater Lab Jobs in Ames, IA

Water Lab information

See Ames, IA salary details

$9

$24

$44

How much do water lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for water lab in Ames, IA is $24.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water lab technician?

Water lab technicians are professionals who perform tests and analyses on water samples to ensure that water quality meets safety and regulatory standards. They use specialized equipment to detect contaminants, measure chemical and biological properties, and report their findings to ensure public health and environmental safety. These technicians often work for government agencies, water treatment facilities, or environmental organizations, and play a critical role in monitoring and maintaining water quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water lab technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Lab Technician, you need a background in chemistry, biology, or environmental science, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical instruments (like spectrophotometers), and data management software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong organizational skills help ensure accurate testing and reporting. These skills are vital for maintaining water quality standards, ensuring regulatory compliance, and protecting public health.

What are some common challenges encountered in a water lab position, and how can they be managed effectively?

In a Water Lab role, professionals often face challenges such as maintaining strict sample integrity, adhering to rigorous testing protocols, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Managing high sample volumes under tight deadlines can also be demanding. Effective time management, attention to detail, and regular training on updated procedures help address these challenges. Collaboration with team members and clear communication with field staff are also essential for troubleshooting and maintaining quality control.

What is the difference between Water Lab vs Water Quality Technician?

AspectWater LabWater Quality Technician
CertificationsLaboratory certifications, e.g., CLIA, ISOWater testing certifications, e.g., EPA, state-specific
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, controlled environmentsField sites, treatment plants, outdoor locations
Job FocusAnalyzing samples, lab testing, data reportingCollecting samples, on-site testing, monitoring water quality
Industry UsageUsed in water testing labs, research facilitiesUsed in water treatment plants, environmental agencies

Water Lab professionals primarily work in laboratories analyzing water samples, while Water Quality Technicians often perform field sampling and on-site testing. Both roles require knowledge of water testing procedures, but their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

Water Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Lab job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,371 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Laboratory Technician

Johnston, IA • On-site

CYNET SYSTEMS
IT Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about CYNET SYSTEMSexternal

$22/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Overview:

Requirement/Must Have:

  • Bachelor's degree in agriculture, horticulture, plant physiology, molecular biology, entomology, plant pathology or related field or 3+ years of related experience or equivalent amounts of relevant education and experience preferred.
  • Ability to pay close attention to detail and follow standard operating and safety/ergonomics protocols is essential.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
  • A high degree of self-motivation, a positive attitude, and the ability to work well independently as well as a team member with minimal supervision.
  • Basic computer skills required, including MS Office programs (Word, Excel, Outlook), and ability to gain competency with internally developed research software.
  • Must be able to stand and sit for long periods of time and lift up to 30 lbs. Must be able to tolerate hours of repetitive work in a warm, humid greenhouse with pollen present year-round.

Responsibilities:

  • Handle daily greenhouse plant care, including pollinating, watering, harvesting, and seed handling for wheat primarily and other crops.
  • Assist with experiments including collecting data, maintaining records, executing lab analysis requests, and communicating experimental logistics with process leads.
  • Support planning and logistical execution of wheat breeding greenhouse experiments including preparation of project requests, inputting experimental data, and communication with internal process leads.
  • Perform routine greenhouse sanitation tasks like discarding and general cleaning.
  • Assist researchers with experiment organizational work on a cross-functional team that handles a diverse project set of pollinations.
  • Other duties as assigned.
 

Founded in 2010 and headquartered in the Washington, DC metro area, Cynet Systems Inc. is a leading staffing and recruiting powerhouse. Proudly recognized as a nationally and locally certified diversity firm, Cynet delivers agile, scalable talent solutions across industries. With an active footprint in all 50 U.S. states and Canada, we support thousands of consultants through our expansive, high-performing recruitment engine operating across North America and Asia—ensuring speed, quality, and consistency in every hire.
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About Cynet Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cynet Systems Inc is a staffing and recruiting corporation nestled in Ashburn, VA, USA. Established in 2010, the company operates within the Information Technology and Services sector, specializing in providing effective workforce solutions to different business needs, including IT consulting, direct hire, and contract staffing services. Through the years, Cynet Systems has built an impressive portfolio, going beyond borders and expanding its operations internationally in Canada and India. Rooted in its core values of teamwork, leadership, and commitment, Cynet Systems helps businesses unlock their full potential by providing versatile and competent professionals that perfectly align with their needs. Fueled by their unwavering mission to deliver top-tier talent to businesses worldwide, Cynet Systems garnered various recognitions including SIA's fastest-growing staffing firms and Best Place to Work in Virginia for 2019.

Industry

It services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sterling, VA, US

Year founded

2010

Social media

Twitter

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