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Contract Digital Court Reporter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Digital Court Reporter I

SC · On-site

$51K/yr

The Digital Court Reporter I serves both the Circuit and Family Courts by accurately capturing the record according to the policies and procedures prescribed in relevant statutes and court rules.

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How much do contract digital court reporter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract digital court reporter in the United States is $32.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.24 and $39.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Digital Court Reporters, and how can they be managed effectively?

Contract Digital Court Reporters often face challenges such as managing fluctuating workloads, ensuring the accuracy of digital recordings, and meeting tight deadlines for transcript delivery. Since you may work with different courts or legal teams, adapting quickly to varying procedures and software is key. Staying organized, maintaining clear communication with clients, and regularly updating technical skills can help you manage these challenges and deliver high-quality work.

What is a Contract Digital Court Reporter?

A Contract Digital Court Reporter is a professional who is hired on a contract basis to record, monitor, and transcribe legal proceedings using digital audio recording equipment. Instead of traditional stenography, they use specialized software and equipment to capture high-quality audio, annotate proceedings, and later produce accurate transcripts. They play a crucial role in ensuring the official record of court hearings, depositions, and other legal events is preserved and accessible. Contract positions offer flexibility, allowing reporters to work for multiple agencies or courts. This role requires attention to detail, familiarity with legal terminology, and proficiency with digital recording technology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Digital Court Reporter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Digital Court Reporter, you need a strong command of legal terminology, excellent listening skills, and proficiency in transcribing spoken word into written records, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with digital recording equipment, transcription software, and secure file management systems is essential. Attention to detail, discretion, and strong time management are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate, confidential, and timely documentation of court proceedings, which is critical for legal processes.

What is the difference between Contract Digital Court Reporter vs Contract Stenographer?

AspectContract Digital Court ReporterContract Stenographer
CredentialsCertification in digital reporting, shorthand, or court reporting softwareShorthand certification, court reporting certification
Work EnvironmentCourtrooms, legal proceedings, remote digital reportingCourtrooms, legal settings, stenographic transcription
Employer & IndustryLegal firms, court systems, freelanceLegal institutions, court systems, freelance
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The Contract Digital Court Reporter and Contract Stenographer both work in legal environments, providing transcription services. The main difference lies in their methods: digital court reporters use electronic recording and reporting technology, while stenographers rely on shorthand and stenotype machines. Both roles require certification and are employed in courts and legal settings, but digital reporters focus on digital tools, whereas stenographers emphasize shorthand skills.

More about Contract Digital Court Reporter jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Digital Court Reporter jobs? Cities with the most Contract Digital Court Reporter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Digital Court Reporter jobs? The most popular types of Digital Court Reporter jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Digital Court Reporter jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Digital Court Reporter jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Digital Court Reporter job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,770 per year, or $32.6 per hour.
Digital Court Reporter I

$51K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 50 rated states


Job description

Salary: $51,636.00 Annually
Location : Statewide, SC
Job Type: FTE - Full-Time
Job Number: 186245
Agency: Judicial Branch
Division: Court Services
Opening Date: 03/13/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Class Code:: ah1024
Position Number:: TBD
Normal Work Schedule:: Monday - Friday (8:30 - 5:00)
Pay Grade: Unclassified
Opening Date: 03/13/2026
EEO Statement: Equal Opportunity Employer
Agency Specific Application Procedures:: nterested persons meeting the required qualifications should submit an online application at www.careers.sc.gov to include all work history and education. All questions on the application must be completed. A resume may be included but will not be accepted or reviewed in lieu of an incomplete application. Supplemental questions are considered a part of your application and must be completed.
Veteran Preference Statement: South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.
Job Responsibilities
The South Carolina Judicial Branch is seeking to fill Digital Court Reporter I positions statewide. The Digital Court Reporter I serves both the Circuit and Family Courts by accurately capturing the record according to the policies and procedures prescribed in relevant statutes and court rules.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION
Note: This job bulletin represents general duties for this position and is not intended to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.
  • Attends court proceedings and creates verbatim recordings by operating electronic audio recording equipment provided by SCJB to create a clear and complete quality audio recording of legal proceedings.
  • Verifies proper operation of the equipment prior to court proceedings and troubleshoots issues with designated IT support team so as to avoid delays and disruptions to court.
  • Creates accurate and detailed electronic time-linked annotations of case events and terminology to serve as a guide to assist the creation of an accurate transcript. Plays back testimony during proceedings at the direction of the presiding judge.
  • Receives, inventories, records, and maintains exhibits entered as evidence in court. Files case exhibits with Clerk of Court in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations. Retains a receipt of delivery to the Clerk's office.
  • Adheres to common principles of professionalism to include being punctual and prepared; dressed in accordance with SCJB's dress code; and being courteous and civil when interacting with the judge, counsel, parties, clerk's staff, and the public.
  • Remains as a neutral observer during court proceedings, refrains from causing disruptions to the proceedings; and exercises the highest levels of professional integrity in the disposition of job responsibilities. Must be able to work independently, exercising good judgement and discretion.
  • Assists judges and court personnel with reasonable requests while working in and outside of the courtroom.
  • Attends meetings or training sessions as required.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum and Additional Requirements
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE)
  • High school diploma.
  • Verified current credentials as a Certified Electronic/Digital Court Reporter by the American Association of Electronic Reporters and Transcribers (AAERT). Successful completion of an AAERT approved Electronic/Digital Court Reporting Program from an institution of higher education may be substituted for the required credentials as a Certified Electronic/Digital Court Reporter.
  • Minimum typing speed of 60 wpm with a high rate of accuracy.
  • Computer and word processing experience and ability to operate digital recording equipment.
  • Must be able to maintain concentration and sit in a courtroom for extended periods of time.
  • Must have dependable transportation as this position will require occasional travel to courthouses throughout the circuit.
  • Punctuality and avoidance of excessive absences required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND OTHER CHARACTERISTICS
Knowledge:
  • General knowledge of nationally recognized court reporter practices and procedures.
  • Specific knowledge of court reporter policies, procedures, and practices as outlined in the SC Court Reporters Manual.
  • Knowledge and use of modern court reporting technology and equipment.
  • Proficient in the use of computers and computer equipment.
Abilities:
  • Must possess excellent time management and listening skills.
  • Must be detail-oriented and able to work independently.
  • Must be able to deal with others in a courteous and professional manner.
  • Ability to exercise judgment and discretion in interpreting and applying policies and procedures.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with Judges, attorneys, coworkers and the general public.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
  • Ability to maintain the confidentiality of the court proceedings.
  • Punctuality and avoidance of excessive absences required.

Preferred Qualifications
DESIRABLE (PREFERRED) REQUIREMENTS (EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE)
  • Two (2) or more years of court reporting experience, with a thorough knowledge of hearing procedures and production of transcripts.

Additional Comments
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The South Carolina Judicial Branch offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that include:
  • Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children;
  • State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs (Temporary positions have option to enroll);
  • 15 days paid annual (vacation) leave per year;
  • 15 days paid sick leave per year;
  • Option to designate 10 days of earned paid sick leave per year as family sick leave;
  • Paid parental leave;
  • 13 paid state holidays; and
  • Workers' Compensation Benefits.

Benefits for State Employees
The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies.
Insurance Benefits
Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance, which includes prescription coverage and wellness benefits. Other available insurance benefits include dental, vision, term life insurance, long term disability and flexible spending accounts for health and child care expenses.
Retirement Benefits
State employees are also offered retirement plan options, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Additionally, eligible employees may elect to participate in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program, which is a voluntary, supplemental retirement savings plan offering 401(k) and 457 plan options.
Workplace Benefits
State employees may also be eligible for other benefits, including tuition assistance; holiday, annual and sick leave; and discounts on purchases, travel and more.
Note: The benefits above are available to most state employees, with the exception of those in temporary positions. Employees in temporary grant and time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some or none of these benefits as benefits are associated with each position type. For these positions, contact the hiring agency to determine what benefits may be available.
01
Please indicate the county(ies) for which you are applying.
02
What is your highest completed level of education?
  • Juris Doctorate
  • Master's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Some College but No Degree
  • High School Diploma
  • GED
  • None of the above

03
How many years of prime court reporting experience to you have?
  • Less than a year
  • 1-3 years
  • 3-5 years
  • More than 5 years

04
What verified court reporting credentials do you currently possess?
05
Give a summary of your court reporting experience.
Required Question

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About State of South Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

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