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Court Reporters Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Security Officer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Supports staff through attendance at court hearings and completing patient transports for medical ... Iowa Dependent Adult Abuse/Iowa Child Abuse Mandatory Reporter training required. Employee must ...

Court Reporters information

See Iowa salary details

$31.5K

$75.7K

$116.5K

How much do court reporters jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for court reporters in Iowa is $75,658.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,700.00 and $93,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Court Reporters vs Transcriptionists?

AspectCourt ReportersTranscriptionists
CredentialsCertification or licensing often requiredNo formal certification typically required
Work EnvironmentCourts, government agencies, legal settingsOffices, remote work, transcription services
Industry UsageLegal proceedings, depositions, hearingsAudio/video transcription, dictation
Work FocusReal-time capturing of spoken words in legal settingsConverting audio recordings into written documents

While both Court Reporters and Transcriptionists convert spoken words into written form, Court Reporters primarily work in legal environments capturing proceedings in real-time, often requiring certification. Transcriptionists typically work in more varied settings, focusing on transcribing pre-recorded audio without the need for specialized credentials. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path based on work environment and certification requirements.

Can I be a court reporter with no experience?

Court reporters can enter the profession with little or no prior experience by completing specialized training and certification programs. Most states require passing a licensing exam and developing skills in shorthand, transcription, and the use of stenotype machines. On-the-job training is often provided, and strong attention to detail and good listening skills are essential for success.

What degree do court reporters need?

Court reporters typically need a postsecondary certificate or an associate degree in court reporting or a related field. They must also develop strong transcription skills and often obtain certification, such as the Registered Professional Reporter (RPR), to enhance job prospects and demonstrate proficiency. Some states may have specific licensing requirements for court reporters.

Where do court reporters make the most money?

Court reporters tend to earn higher salaries in regions with larger legal markets, such as major metropolitan areas, where demand for court reporting services is greater. Factors like experience, certification, and the ability to provide realtime reporting can also influence income levels. Generally, court reporters working in urban centers or specialized settings tend to have higher earning potential.

Is becoming a court reporter hard?

Becoming a court reporter requires completing specialized training or a certification program, and developing strong listening, typing, and shorthand skills. The job can be demanding due to the need for high accuracy and speed, often requiring long periods of intense concentration, but with dedication and practice, it is achievable.

What are popular job titles related to Court Reporters jobs in Iowa?

For Court Reporters jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Court Reporters jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Court Reporters jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Court Reporters job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,658 per year, or $36.4 per hour.

Court Reporter - Official Certified Shorthand Reporter (D7)

State of Iowa

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$65K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


State Of Iowa rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Description The Iowa Judicial Branch in District 7, seeks applicants for Certified Court Reporters to record court proceedings and provide official transcripts for the District 7 counties of Cedar, Clinton, Jackson, Muscatine, and Scott. This position will provide official court records for court proceedings and ensure the integrity of court records and official transcripts. This position will create verbatim records to capture, store, retrieve, and transcribe court proceedings and testimony.

This position will transcribe shorthand records and notes into certified transcripts in accordance with Iowa Court Rules. This position will maintain shorthand reporter certification in accordance with Iowa Court Rules Chapter 46 and complete the required continuing education. The successful candidate will be able to take notes in shorthand by stenotype, or use a closed microphone voice dictation silencer, steno mask, or similar device to record verbatim court procedures.

This position will have the ability to professionally communicate with a variety of court users. The successful candidate will have keen attention to detail to maintain the accuracy and integrity of court records. This position may travel to other counties within the judicial district to record court proceedings as assigned.

What's in it for you: Collaborative, positive, professional work environment Opportunities to make a widespread difference in the Iowa communities Excellent benefits package Paid Holidays/Vacation/Sick Leave Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS) plan Employee discount program Employment with the Iowa Judicial Branch may qualify for the federal student loan repayment program The pay range for this position is $31.39 - $50.14 per hour. This is a contract-covered, FLSA non-exempt position. The starting salary for new state employees is expected to be at the base of the pay range

Adjustments may be made if the successful candidate has relevant experience. Position classification is determined as the 'best fit' of the duties assigned to and performed by a position. This position is classified as a Court Reporter as summarized below.

Summary Create verbatim records in shorthand to capture, store, retrieve, and transcribe court testimony and proceedings. Examples of Duties and Responsibilities Create verbatim records of testimony and proceedings by shorthand recording methods as required in accordance with Iowa Code 642.9 and Iowa Court Rules. Mark, record, maintain, and secure exhibits during court proceedings

Transcribe shorthand records and notes into certified transcripts per Iowa Court Rules. File legible notes and certified transcripts of proceedings and dispositions with the court clerk's office. Perform clerical duties for the judicial officer, which may include preparing jury instructions, orders, opinions, correspondence, or other court-related documents.

Maintain shorthand reporter certification by Iowa Court Rules Chapter 46 and complete continuing education requirements. Perform other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Ability to take notes in shorthand, use a stenotype, or use a closed microphone voice dictation silencer, steno mask, or similar device.

Knowledge of court procedures, rules, and policies. Knowledge of legal and medical terminology. Excellent written communication skills.

Ability to give full attention and concentration over a long period. Ability to maintain confidentiality and secure confidential information. Ability to meet deadlines and manage time effectively.

Attention to detail. Reliable transportation and the ability to travel. This is a non-merit position with the Iowa Judicial Branch.

Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section. Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise. The Iowa Judicial Branch is an Equal Opportunity employer.

Applicants may review the Equal Employment Opportunity Utilization Report from the Iowa Judicial Branch website as part of our commitment to transparency and compliance with federal and state regulations. This position is covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Iowa Council 61, AFL-CIO (AFSCME). To apply, click To Apply button, complete the application and attach PDF versions of your cover letter and resume.

Minimum Qualification Requirements The incumbent must meet the minimum requirements to qualify for the position. High school diploma (or high school equivalency diploma). Must have one of the following, Registered Professional Reporter (RPR) from the National Court Reporters Association.

Certified Verbatim Reporter (CVR) from the National Verbatim Reporters Association. Completed a court reporter program. Additional Information Must obtain an Iowa Certified Shorthand Reporter license within one year of employment.

Current certification must be maintained. A court reporter will purchase and maintain court reporting stenotype machines and/or verbatim recording equipment and appropriate software. Additional Qualification Requirements Preferred Qualifications Experience with court or legal process or terminology.

Experience with accurate record keeping. Customer service experience. Professional verbal and written communication experience.


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About State of Iowa

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Iowa is not a company but the governmental structure of the U.S. state of Iowa, stationed in the capital city, Des Moines. The official website, iowa.gov, is a platform dedicated to providing information and services related to the state's governance. As a governmental establishment, the State of Iowa's 'industry' primarily involves social governance, policy-making, and public administration, overseeing sectors like education, health, transportation, agriculture, and other public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1939