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Entry Level Lawyer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Loan Operations Specialist

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Work with attorneys, abstractors, appraisers, insurance companies, closing companies, and customers ... From entry-level positions to professional and executive-level openings, we work with companies of ...

... the entry-level and first time move-up markets. The Company also provides mortgage financing and ... Coordinate with attorneys for the preparation of HOA documents, as well as HOA and jurisdictional ...

... the entry-level and first time move-up markets. The Company also provides mortgage financing and ... Coordinate with attorneys for the preparation of HOA documents, as well as HOA and jurisdictional ...

Entry Level Lawyer information

See Iowa salary details

$44.1K

$94.5K

$129.6K

How much do entry level lawyer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level lawyer in Iowa is $94,515.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $96,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level lawyer?

Entry level lawyers are recent law school graduates or newly licensed attorneys who are starting their legal careers. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced lawyers, assisting with research, drafting legal documents, and supporting cases. Entry level lawyers may work in law firms, government agencies, or corporate legal departments. Their primary focus is to gain practical experience and develop foundational legal skills while working toward greater responsibilities.

What does an entry level lawyer do?

An entry-level lawyer performs a range of research, writing, and legal services duties for a law firm. As an entry-level attorney, you typically work on cases as part of a larger team of lawyers, and your responsibilities may focus on specific aspects of the case, such as interviewing witnesses, working with paralegals to sort out legal research and find relevant casework, or filing documents with the court or opposing counsel. You also assist more senior lawyers with administrative tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level lawyer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Lawyer, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, successful completion of the bar exam, and strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills. Familiarity with legal research tools such as Westlaw or LexisNexis, and proficiency in document management systems are typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and time management are valuable soft skills for this role. These skills ensure effective client representation, accurate legal work, and the ability to manage multiple cases in a dynamic legal environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level lawyers during their first year at a law firm?

Entry-level lawyers often face challenges such as managing heavy workloads, adapting to the fast-paced environment, and quickly learning firm-specific procedures. Balancing multiple cases or assignments while meeting tight deadlines can be demanding, and new attorneys may need to develop strong organizational and time-management skills. Additionally, building professional relationships with senior lawyers and clients requires effective communication and a willingness to seek feedback for continuous improvement.

What is the difference between Entry Level Lawyer vs Paralegal?

AspectEntry Level LawyerParalegal
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), passing the bar examAssociate's degree or paralegal certificate
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesLaw firms, legal departments, courts
Employer & Industry UsageLegal industry, practicing law under supervisionSupporting legal work, assisting lawyers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level legal roles, career pathLegal support roles, legal assistant positions

Entry Level Lawyers are licensed legal professionals who have completed their JD and passed the bar exam, allowing them to practice law under supervision. Paralegals assist lawyers with legal research, document preparation, and case management but are not licensed to practice law. While both roles work in legal environments, Entry Level Lawyers have a broader scope of practice and legal authority compared to Paralegals.

What is the easiest type of entry level lawyer to become?

Entry level lawyers often find it easiest to start in general practice or small firm roles that require basic legal skills and a Juris Doctor degree. These positions typically involve routine tasks and may require passing the bar exam, but they usually have fewer specialized requirements compared to niche legal fields like patent or corporate law.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lawyer jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Lawyer jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lawyer jobs in Iowa?

For Entry Level Lawyer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lawyer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lawyer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Lawyer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Lawyer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Lawyer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,515 per year, or $45.4 per hour.

Sales Representative Entry Level

Northwestern Mutual - Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids, IA โ€ข On-site

$61K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Retirement
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Company parties
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance

At Northwestern Mutual Cedar Rapids, we are committed to building the most financially secure communities in America, one person, one family, and one business at a time. Recognized as one of CBJ’s Coolest Places to Work and honored with the Training APEX Award, Forbes: Best Employers for New Grads, and WayUp: Top 100 Internships, our office combines industry-leading training with a culture of growth and inclusion. From our Leadership Development Program and Women’s Affinity Summit to our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion committee (IMPOWER), we foster an environment where everyone has the tools and support to succeed. Beyond professional growth, we are deeply committed to giving back, supporting causes like Alex’s Lemonade Stand, the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital, and pediatric cancer research through local events that make a lasting impact.
Our thriving office is located at: 401 1st St SE Suite 401 Cedar Rapids IA 52401
A Glance at Northwestern Mutual (NM):
Northwestern Mutual is a FORTUNE 500® company that provides a wide range of financial services to more than 5 million people. As a mutual company, we answer to our policyowners—not Wall Street. We began in Wisconsin in 1857, and today we’re one of America’s top companies - as was recognized by FORTUNE ® as one of the “World’s Most Admired” companies in 2024 - with a unique culture deeply dedicated to helping people achieve financial security.
  
Meet Our Local Team:
Kalvin Grabau Keele, CHFC, CLU, RICP – Managing Partner/Wealth Management Advisor:
  • Time with NM: 20 years.
  • Prior Experience: Kalvin began his career with Northwestern Mutual as a college intern and has been with the firm ever since, growing into leadership and advanced planning roles over nearly two decades.
  • Passionate About: Kalvin values faith, family, and fun. He enjoys sports, reading, and writing, and finds fulfillment in staying active and spending time with loved ones.
Ben Frazier – District Director:
  • Time with NM: 5 years.
  • Prior Experience: Ben served as a Medical Officer in the Army National Guard before transitioning into financial services.
  • Passionate About: Ben loves animals, music festivals, and traveling overseas. He also enjoys kickboxing and is passionate about giving back to his community.
Kate Berry – Financial Advisor:
  • Time with NM: 2 years.
  • Prior Experience: Kate attended law school and was planning to become a lawyer before discovering her career path with Northwestern Mutual.
  • Passionate About: Kate spends much of her time on the farm and is a devoted animal lover, especially of cattle, horses, and dogs. She enjoys DIY projects, scrapbooking, hunting, and fishing. Faith is central to her life—she dedicates time to studying the Bible, has participated in many mission trips, and volunteers as a coach for Upwards Sports, teaching kids about Christ through athletics.
Kyle Reeve – Financial Advisor:
  • Time with NM: 3 years.
  • Prior Experience: Kyle worked in public education for 15 years, serving as both a teacher and a school principal.
  • Passionate About: Kyle enjoys spending time with his family, especially his two young boys who keep him active with their activities. His family is involved in their church and loves time together on the golf course and at their family’s cabin.
About the Financial Representative Role: As a Financial Representative at Northwestern Mutual, you will be part of a team that helps individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals through personalized insurance solutions and financial planning. Your role involves building long-term relationships with clients, understanding their unique needs, and providing tailored financial solutions.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Client Consultation: Engage with clients to understand their financial goals, aspirations, and concerns.
  • Financial Planning: Develop comprehensive financial plans that include investments, insurance, and retirement.
  • Insurance Solutions: Recommend and implement insurance strategies to protect clients' assets and income.
  • Ongoing Support: Monitor clients' financial plans and provide regular updates, adjusting strategies as needed to meet changing circumstances.
  • Networking: Build and maintain a network of clients through referrals, community involvement, and professional associations.
Qualifications:
  • Education: A bachelor's degree is preferred.
  • Experience: Previous experience in financial services or business development is beneficial but not required.
  • Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, analytical thinking, and the ability to build trust and rapport with clients.
  • Licenses: Obtain necessary licenses, such as Series 6, 63, and state insurance licenses (training and sponsorship available).
Benefits:
  • Professional Development: Access to ongoing training and development programs, including sponsorship for advanced certifications.
  • Income Potential: Competitive compensation structure including performance incentives, with no ceiling.
  • Support and Mentorship: Comprehensive support from a dedicated planning team, marketing resources, and experienced mentors.
  • Work-Life Balance: Flexibility to create a schedule that fits your lifestyle and goals.
  • Retirement Benefits: Company-funded pension and contributions to PFGF—our version of a profit-sharing retirement plan designed to support your long-term financial future.
  • Impact: Make a lasting impact by guiding individuals and families in your community towards financial security and success.

Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Kalvin Grabau Keele is a Managing Partner for NM and is not in legal partnership with NM, or its subsidiaries.