Job Description

Position Title:

Laboratory Technician II

Job Group:

Merit

Required Minimum Qualifications:

• Two years of related laboratory experience including one year as a Laboratory Technician I or equivalent level experience, or Certified Laboratory Assistant (CLA) certification, or Any combination of related post high school education and experience which totals two years.

Special Required Qualifications

Must have accurate color recognition

of Duties and Responsibilities:

Are you a detail oriented laboratory professional who thrives in a hands on, research driven environment? The Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) is seeking a Laboratory Technician II to support diagnostic testing and research efforts that protect animal and public health. This role is ideal for someone with a strong science background who enjoys collaborative work and making a real world impact through high quality laboratory practices.

What You’ll Do

• Perform laboratory testing and research support including PCR, cell culture maintenance, virus propagation, and serological assays
• Process and manage incoming samples including logging, evaluating suitability, preparing for testing, and archiving
• Support research and development activities in collaboration with faculty, scientists, and diagnostic laboratory teams
• Assist with quality assurance and quality control processes including evaluating test results and troubleshooting assays
• Follow established laboratory safety protocols and standard operating procedures in a regulated diagnostic environment

Additional Details

• This is an on site position within the Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory
• Work involves handling biological samples and exposure to laboratory reagents, equipment, and potential biohazards
• Requires adherence to strict biosafety and laboratory protocols, including use of personal protective equipment
• Physical requirements include standing for extended periods, repetitive hand movements, and occasional lifting of supplies

About the Department

The Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) is a nationally recognized leader in animal disease diagnostics, research, and surveillance. As part of the College of Veterinary Medicine, the VDL provides critical diagnostic services to veterinarians, producers, and researchers across Iowa and the nation. The laboratory combines expertise in multiple disciplines including virology, bacteriology, pathology, and molecular diagnostics to deliver accurate and timely results that safeguard animal agriculture and public health. Working at the VDL means contributing to impactful work in a collaborative, science driven environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Hands on experience performing molecular laboratory techniques (e.g., PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, or similar methods).
• Experience following established laboratory protocols or standard operating procedures.
• Experience processing or handling biological samples in a lab environment.
• Experience maintaining cell cultures using aseptic technique.
• Experience working in a high volume laboratory setting.
• Experience maintaining laboratory cleanliness and biosecurity through laboratory safety manual requirements.

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.

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
• Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

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:

Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

08

Original Posting Date:

May 21, 2026

Posting Close Date:

May 31, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R19265

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.