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Federal Court Reporter Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Federal Court Reporter information

See Iowa salary details

$31.5K

$75.7K

$116.5K

How much do federal court reporter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal court reporter 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 a federal court reporter?

Federal court reporters are professionals responsible for creating accurate, verbatim transcripts of legal proceedings held in United States federal courts. They use specialized stenography equipment to record everything said during trials, hearings, and other court sessions. Their work ensures that a reliable written record exists for appeals, legal reference, and public record. Federal court reporters must have a high degree of accuracy, confidentiality, and knowledge of legal terminology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal court reporter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Federal Court Reporter, you need expert stenographic or voice-writing skills, strong command of legal terminology, and typically a certification such as Registered Professional Reporter (RPR) or higher. Familiarity with court reporting software, real-time transcription systems, and digital audio equipment is standard. Attention to detail, discretion, and the ability to remain composed under pressure are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure the accurate, impartial, and timely production of legal transcripts critical to the judicial process.

What are some common challenges faced by federal court reporters, and how can they be addressed?

Federal Court Reporters often encounter challenges such as maintaining accuracy during fast-paced or technical proceedings and handling multiple speakers or overlapping dialogue. To address these, reporters develop strong shorthand or stenography skills and utilize advanced recording technology. They also prepare by familiarizing themselves with case-specific terminology beforehand and collaborating closely with attorneys, judges, and clerks to clarify unclear statements. Regular practice and professional development help them stay updated with evolving court procedures and technology.

What is the difference between Federal Court Reporter vs State Court Reporter?

AspectFederal Court ReporterState Court Reporter
CredentialsCertified shorthand reporter (CSR), federal certificationState-specific certification or licensing
Work EnvironmentFederal courthouses, federal legal proceedingsState courthouses, state legal proceedings
Employer & IndustryFederal judiciary, government agenciesState courts, local government
Work ScopeTranscribing federal cases, hearings, and trialsTranscribing state cases, hearings, and trials

Federal Court Reporters and State Court Reporters both transcribe legal proceedings, but Federal Court Reporters work primarily in federal courts with federal certification, while State Court Reporters work in state courts with state-specific credentials. The work environments and employer types differ, but both roles require similar skills in stenography and transcription.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Federal Court Reporter jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Federal Court Reporter job openings:

Infographic showing various Federal Court Reporter job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person 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

$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