ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Abstractor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

All JobsAbstractor JobsAbstractor Jobs in Iowa

Abstractor information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$24

$36

How much do abstractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for abstractor in Iowa is $24.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

An abstractor can potentially earn $10,000 a month by working in real estate or title insurance, where experienced professionals handle property data and documentation. Success in such roles often depends on expertise, efficiency, and industry knowledge, with some positions offering high commissions or bonuses. Typically, these jobs require strong research skills and familiarity with relevant software but do not always require a formal degree.

What is the difference between Abstractor vs Title Examiner?

AspectAbstractorTitle Examiner
CredentialsOften requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some certifications availableSimilar credentials; may also hold certifications in title searching
Work EnvironmentTypically works in offices, researching property recordsWorks in offices or remotely, reviewing title documents and records
Industry UsageCommonly employed in real estate, title companies, and law firmsPrimarily used in title companies, real estate transactions, and legal settings
Search and Comparison IntentResearches property histories to prepare abstractsReviews and verifies property titles for legal and transaction purposes

While both Abstractors and Title Examiners work in the real estate and title industry, Abstractors focus on researching property histories to create comprehensive abstracts. Title Examiners review and verify titles to ensure clear ownership transfer. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but their specific responsibilities differ in scope and purpose.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Abstractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Abstractor, you need a keen eye for detail, strong analytical skills, and a solid understanding of legal documents or medical records, typically supported by relevant experience or training. Familiarity with specialized software for document management, databases, and sometimes certification in medical coding or legal research is often required. Excellent organizational skills, critical thinking, and effective communication set top performers apart in this field. These skills ensure accurate data extraction, reduce errors, and support smooth workflow in legal, real estate, or healthcare environments.

What are abstractors and what do they do?

Abstractors are professionals who review and summarize public records, legal documents, or other data, often focusing on property titles or legal proceedings. Their main role is to identify and compile key information from complex documents into concise reports. Abstractors are commonly employed in real estate, law, or medical fields, ensuring that information such as ownership history, liens, or legal claims is accurately documented. This work is essential for verifying property ownership, conducting legal due diligence, or maintaining accurate records in various industries.

How much do abstractors get paid?

Abstractors typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $15 to $25, with annual salaries between $30,000 and $50,000 depending on experience, location, and employer. Some abstractors work freelance or part-time, which can affect overall earnings, and proficiency with research tools and legal knowledge can influence pay rates.

How do you become an abstractor?

To become an abstractor, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in real estate, title searching, or legal research. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in property records, familiarity with title plant software, and strong research skills; some roles may require certification or licensing depending on the region.

What is the job of an abstractor?

An abstractor reviews and summarizes legal, financial, or property records to create concise summaries called abstracts. They often work with databases and must ensure accuracy and completeness, typically requiring attention to detail and knowledge of relevant record-keeping systems.

What are some common challenges Abstractors face when working with large volumes of complex records?

Abstractors often encounter challenges such as deciphering handwritten or poorly scanned documents, managing inconsistencies in record formats, and ensuring accuracy while working under tight deadlines. Large volumes of complex records can require strong attention to detail and effective organizational skills to avoid errors. Collaboration with other team members, such as attorneys or title examiners, is often necessary to clarify ambiguous information and ensure all relevant data is properly extracted and documented.

What Are Abstractor Jobs?

An abstractor works in the real estate industry or the healthcare industry. A clinical data abstractor organizes and analyzes data using medical charts and other patient information. They may do this for clinical purposes or to support medical researchers. A title abstractor, also known as a land abstractor, uses databases to make sure that the title for real estate is valid, and that no other liens or claims are on the property. The duties of someone in this job require the ability to perform research and organize data.

More about Abstractor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Abstractor jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Abstractor jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Abstractor jobs in Iowa? For Abstractor jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Abstractor jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Abstractor jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Abstractor jobs in IA? For Abstractor jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Abstractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Abstractor job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,926 per year, or $24 per hour.
Real Estate Title Specialist/Abstractor

Real Estate Title Specialist/Abstractor

JCG Land Services

Ames, IA • On-site

$18.75 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Where property meets precision - join us as an Real Estate Title Specialist/Abstractor!
JCG Land Services is looking for a detail-oriented with experience digging into property records and title research, while performing their real estate due diligence. In this role, you will ensure accurate property ownership verification and legal documentation to support real estate acquisition and project management efforts.
If you have experience reviewing deeds, easements, legal descriptions, and title reports, and enjoy working with complex property records, we encourage you to apply.
Company Overview:
JCG is a professional services firm specializing in real estate acquisition and project management. We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Title Specialist to support our project teams with accurate title research and file preparation.
Job Summary:
The Real Estate Title Specialist/Abstractor plays a critical role in ensuring the success of our projects by performing title research, document review, and due diligence tasks. This position collaborates with with Project Managers and Land Acquisition Specialists to verify property records and legal documentation. The ideal candidate must be able to commute to the corporate office in Ames, Iowa on a daily basis. This position is not intended to be remote.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Conduct title searches and title research using online databases and courthouse records
  • Review and analyze title reports, land records, deeds, easements, and legal descriptions
  • Verify property ownership, liens, and encumbrances
  • Interpret deeds, easements, leases, and right-of-way documents
  • Plot metes and bounds legal descriptions
  • Coordinate with title companies, abstractors, and project teams
  • Perform due diligence for real estate and land acquisition projects
  • Ensure documents are properly executed, notarized, and recorded
  • Maintain strict confidentiality of legal and client information

Required Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum of 3+ years experience in title research or abstracting
  • Experience working at a title company, abstract company, or land services firm
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Adobe Acrobat
  • Ability to interpret legal property descriptions and land records

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree
  • Experience with right-of-way title research, land acquisition, or real estate development projects

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:
  • Office-based environment with standard equipment
  • Primarily sedentary with occasional lifting up to 50 lbs
  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods

Additional Details:
  • Occasional travel required
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation needed
  • Ability to handle confidential legal documentation
  • Security clearance may be required for some clients

Why Join Us?
  • Collaborative and supportive team environment
  • Meaningful work supporting real estate and infrastructure projects
  • Competitive compensation and work-life balance

Benefits
  • Paid time off
  • Health, dental, vision insurance
  • Company-matched retirement plan
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Casual work environment

JCG Land Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Apply