Weekend Lab Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician

Job Description

The Lab Technician performs in-house testing, supports external laboratory testing, and ensures accurate documentation of quality results in a regulated manufacturing environment. This role prepares reagents and samples, maintains and calibrates laboratory equipment, and updates systems and databases to support consistent product quality. The Lab Technician collaborates closely with production and quality teams, participates in drafting and revising procedures, and contributes to continuous improvement of laboratory practices.

Responsibilities

• Perform all in-house testing and accurately enter results into the ERP system or provide them to the designated person in a timely manner.
• Monitor incoming raw materials and packaging components, perform required tests, and release materials in the ERP system once they meet specifications.
• Prepare samples for testing performed at outside laboratories and ensure proper handling, documentation, and shipment.
• Prepare reagents and solutions needed for routine and specialized laboratory testing.
• Clean and maintain the laboratory and laboratory equipment to ensure a safe, organized, and functional work area.
• Perform calibration and periodic checks of laboratory equipment to ensure accurate and reliable test results.
• Monitor laboratory supply inventory and initiate ordering of supplies to prevent shortages and maintain continuous operations.
• Review test results, laboratory notebooks, and worksheets in a timely manner to ensure completeness, accuracy, and compliance with procedures.
• Update spreadsheets and databases to track test results, outside testing, and quality metrics, and to monitor ongoing quality performance.
• Effectively communicate in-process quality results and issues with production personnel and other laboratory staff.
• Perform regular laboratory inspections to ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and internal procedures.
• Draft, review, and revise standard operating procedures (SOPs) and laboratory worksheets to maintain accurate and current documentation.
• Assist in training laboratory and production personnel on laboratory procedures, testing methods, and documentation requirements.
• Communicate with outside laboratories, customers, and suppliers as needed to coordinate testing, clarify requirements, and support quality initiatives.
• Execute other responsibilities and projects as required to support the quality and laboratory functions.

Essential Skills

• Four-year science degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, or a related field, with a preference for a Chemistry or Organic Chemistry background.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with other team members across laboratory and production functions.
• Experience with chemistry laboratory testing, including techniques such as HPLC and wet chemistry, especially in a food laboratory environment for candidates with a two-year science degree.
• Hands-on laboratory experience in a GMP or regulated lab environment.
• Proficiency in performing manual testing and working in a lab environment focused on food quality and quality assurance.
• Ability to perform pH measurements and other routine chemistry tests accurately and consistently.
• Comfort using Microsoft applications, including Excel, for data entry, tracking, and reporting of test results.
• Attention to detail and strong documentation skills to ensure accurate and complete recording of test results and laboratory activities.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry is preferred.
• Experience with SOP development, documentation, and technical writing in a laboratory or GMP environment.
• Strong Excel skills for managing spreadsheets, tracking data, and maintaining quality-related databases.
• Experience working in a quality assurance or QC role within a food, pharmaceutical, or similar manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with ERP systems for entering and releasing material test results.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a tenured, collaborative team and contribute to a positive laboratory culture.
• Interest in professional growth and development within a quality or laboratory career path.

This is a Contract position based out of Cedar Rapids, IA.

The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $22.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Cedar Rapids,IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 23, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.