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Legal Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Cleaning Associate

Coralville, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $13.75/hr

EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care & cell phone discounts; pet & legal insurance; credit union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours ...

Cleaning Associate

Coralville, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $13.75/hr

EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care & cell phone discounts; pet & legal insurance; credit union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours ...

Cleaning Associate

Coralville, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $13.75/hr

EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care & cell phone discounts; pet & legal insurance; credit union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours ...

EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care & cell phone discounts; pet & legal insurance; credit union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours ...

EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care & cell phone discounts; pet & legal insurance; credit union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours ...

Cleaning Associate

Coralville, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $13.75/hr

EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care & cell phone discounts; pet & legal insurance; credit union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours ...

Showing results 21-40

Legal Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$7

$27

$56

How much do legal associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for legal associate in Iowa is $27.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $31.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a legal associate?

Legal Associates are early-career lawyers who support more senior attorneys in a law firm or legal department. They conduct legal research, draft documents, assist with case preparation, and may represent clients under supervision. Legal Associates are typically recent law school graduates who have passed the bar exam, and their role is designed to provide hands-on experience while allowing them to develop their legal skills. Over time, Legal Associates may work toward becoming partners or taking on more senior legal positions within their organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a legal associate?

To thrive as a Legal Associate, you need a law degree (JD or equivalent), strong research and analytical skills, and attention to detail. Familiarity with legal research databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis, document management systems, and proficiency in drafting legal documents are essential. Excellent written and verbal communication, time management, and the ability to work collaboratively set standout candidates apart. These skills ensure effective legal analysis, high-quality client service, and successful case outcomes in a demanding legal environment.

What are some typical challenges legal associates face during their first year at a law firm?

Legal Associates often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of work under tight deadlines, adapting to the expectations of different partners, and learning to balance administrative tasks with substantive legal research and drafting. Navigating firm culture and building relationships with senior attorneys and clients can also be demanding. However, these challenges provide valuable learning opportunities and help associates develop strong time management, communication, and legal analysis skills crucial for career growth.

What is the difference between Legal Associate vs Paralegal?

AspectLegal AssociateParalegal
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), bar admission often preferredAssociate's degree or paralegal certification
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesLaw firms, legal departments, courts, corporate offices
Job ResponsibilitiesLegal research, drafting documents, client interaction, assisting attorneysLegal research, document preparation, case organization, support tasks

Legal Associates typically hold a JD and are licensed to practice law, performing more advanced legal tasks. Paralegals assist attorneys with research and administrative duties but do not require a law degree or license. Both roles work in similar environments, but Legal Associates have a broader scope of responsibilities and legal authority.

Are legal associates in demand?

Legal associates are in demand due to ongoing legal needs across various industries, especially in corporate, healthcare, and technology sectors. The role often requires strong research, writing, and analytical skills, and employment prospects are expected to grow as legal services remain essential for businesses and individuals.

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

The most popular types of Legal jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Legal Associate jobs in Iowa?

For Legal Associate jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Legal Associate jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Legal Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Legal Associate job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,663 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Associate Attorney-Centralized Document Review

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Review legal documents to ensure compliance with federal, state, and client-specific policies.

  • Execute and sign documents in accordance with firm procedures and jurisdictional requirements.

  • Provide recommendations based on case law analysis and perform court appearances as necessary in licensed states.


Job description

Gurstel Law Firm, P.C. – Associate Attorney-Centralized Document Review


JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking a detail-oriented Associate Attorney with strong academic credentials to join our fast-paced, high-volume debt collection practice. The ideal candidate possesses a passion for collection law and thrives in a deadline-driven environment. This role focuses heavily on document review, regulatory compliance, and legal strategy within the consumer credit sector.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Compliance & Document Review: Review legal documents (Validation Notices, Affidavits, Notices of Intent, etc.) to ensure strict adherence to Federal and State regulatory laws and client-specific policies.
  • Legal Signing: Execute and sign documents in accordance with Firm Compliance procedures and State Attorney Review Requirements for licensed jurisdictions.
  • Litigation Support: Provide recommendations based on case law analysis; perform court appearances only as necessary in licensed states.
  • Strategic Planning: Assist in managing high volumes of information while maintaining quality control and strategic alignment with firm goals.
  • Adaptability: Position could include, as necessary, court appearances in the states in which the attorney is licensed and other duties as necessary and assigned. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 
  • Attend continuing education classes, webinars, and seminars to remain current and well-informed of any local, state, or federal changes in the law, rules of court or court procedures. 

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

  • No courtroom experience is necessary or required. 
  • Education & Licensure: J.D. from an accredited law school and active membership in the State Bar with no disciplinary action. 
  • Legal Knowledge: Strong understanding of federal, state, and local laws. Proficiency in FDCPA regulations and legal database software is highly preferred.
  • Experience: No courtroom experience is necessary or required. Background in civil litigation is desired. Advanced knowledge of bankruptcy law, consumer credit, or contract negotiation is a significant plus.
  • Technical Skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite with strong legal research and analytical abilities.
  • Soft Skills: Exceptional oral and written communication; ability to collaborate effectively across all organizational levels. 
  • Superior time management skills and ability to effectively manage priorities to meet business requirements and deadlines in a dynamic and fast paced environment.
  • Ability to communicate effectively across a broad spectrum of attorney and non-attorney recipients including all levels within the organization and external.
  • Ability to think globally by ways of strategic planning and risk management.

COMPETENCIES

  • Accountability 20%
  • Dependability 20%
  • Communication 20%
  • Compliance and Discipline 20%
  • Ethics & Integrity 20%

TRAVEL – This position requires travel to courts if needed. 

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS 

  • NO BILLABLE HOURS
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, Life, Accident, Critical Illness, Long-Term Care, Pet Insurance, 401k, Profit Sharing, and Student Debt Retirement Savings Program.
  • Flexible Time Off (FTO)/ Paid Holidays 
  • Professional yet casual work environment
  • Bonus and Commission potential
  • Paid CLE’s & Dues

Gurstel Law Firm, P.C. (hereinafter “the Firm”) is multi-state litigation law firm representing creditors in all aspects of legal collection process. The Firm is headquartered in Golden Valley, Minnesota with offices in Arizona, California, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, Utah, and Wisconsin. Its practice is focused on the development of attorneys’ litigation skills, strategies and industry knowledge.   

CULTURE  At Gurstel, we operate on our Core Values of Doing Right, Achieving Results, and Maintaining our Integrity. We champion diversity and are a very fast-paced, enthusiastic group of people! Success is celebrated and we are looking for people who share those same values with the drive to exceed expectations and think outside the box! Our culture is what makes our Firm a fun and rewarding place to work.

EOE- Gurstel Law Firm, P.C. is an Equal Opportunity Employer (M/W/D/V) dedicated to diversity in the workplace and offers a great work environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

 If you are based in California, you can read information for California residents linked here