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Mediator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Attorney/Lawyer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site +1

$90K - $120K/yr

Appear at conferences, mediations, hearings, and trials * Negotiate settlements and advocate effectively for clients * Communicate with opposing counsel, courts, experts, and other third parties

Attorney/Lawyer

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

$90K - $120K/yr

Appear at conferences, mediations, hearings, and trials * Negotiate settlements and advocate effectively for clients * Communicate with opposing counsel, courts, experts, and other third parties

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Showing results 1-20

Mediator information

See Iowa salary details

$40.9K

$92.4K

$220.7K

How much do mediator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for mediator in Iowa is $92,371.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,100.00 and $100,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mediator?

A Mediator provides mediation services that help find a resolution between disputing parties or individuals before the case ends up in court. As a Mediator, your responsibilities include listening to both sides of the conflict, discerning what areas of the dispute have a potential for compromise, and helping parties work step-by-step toward a solution. You may work for a law firm, government agency, or third-party agency. Your job is to provide objective observations and propose a compromise that suits both parties and keeps them from needing to face a costly court battle.

What is a mediator?

Mediators are neutral third parties who help two or more people or groups resolve conflicts or disputes outside of court. They facilitate communication, encourage understanding, and assist parties in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement. Mediators do not make decisions for the parties, but rather guide the negotiation process and help everyone involved find common ground. This process is often confidential, voluntary, and can be more cost-effective and quicker than litigation.

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

To thrive as a Mediator, you need strong conflict resolution abilities, knowledge of negotiation techniques, and often a background in law, social work, or related fields, sometimes with formal mediation training or certification. Familiarity with mediation software, case management systems, and adherence to relevant professional standards is common in this role. Exceptional listening, impartiality, and communication skills help mediators facilitate understanding and trust between conflicting parties. These competencies are crucial for achieving fair, effective resolutions and maintaining professional credibility in sensitive or complex disputes.

What are some common challenges mediators face when facilitating negotiations between parties?

Mediators often encounter challenges such as managing strong emotions, overcoming communication barriers, and ensuring that all parties feel heard and understood. It can be difficult to maintain neutrality, especially in high-conflict situations where trust is low. Successful mediators use active listening, patience, and creative problem-solving to help parties find common ground and work toward a mutually acceptable agreement.

What is the difference between Mediator vs Arbitrator?

AspectMediatorArbitrator
CredentialsNone mandatory, but certifications like CCM or mediator training are commonOften requires legal background or specific arbitration certifications
Work EnvironmentFacilitates negotiations in a neutral setting, often in offices or onlineHears disputes and makes binding or non-binding decisions, in formal hearings
Industry UsageUsed across legal, commercial, family, and workplace disputesPrimarily in legal, commercial, and labor disputes

While mediators facilitate discussions to help parties reach an agreement without making decisions, arbitrators hear disputes and render binding or non-binding decisions. Both roles require strong communication skills, but arbitrators often have legal or specialized training, whereas mediators focus on negotiation and conflict resolution. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right professional for dispute resolution needs.

How much do mediators earn?

Mediator salaries vary depending on experience, location, and whether they work independently or for an organization. On average, mediators earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced professionals or those in specialized fields earning higher wages. Many mediators also charge hourly rates, typically ranging from $50 to $300 per hour.

How to get a job as a mediator?

To become a mediator, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree, relevant experience in law, counseling, or conflict resolution, and certification from a recognized mediation training program. In some cases, licensing or registration with state agencies may be required, and strong communication and negotiation skills are essential for success in the field.

Is a mediator a good career?

A mediator is a professional who facilitates dispute resolution outside of court, often requiring strong communication, negotiation skills, and certification. The career can be rewarding with opportunities in legal, corporate, or community settings, and typically offers flexible schedules and the potential for steady income as experience grows.

What qualifications do I need to be a mediator?

To become a mediator, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as law, psychology, or social work. Many employers prefer candidates with mediation training or certification from a recognized program, along with strong communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.

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

The most popular types of Mediator jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Mediator jobs in Iowa?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Mediator jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Mediator jobs in IA?

For Mediator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Mediator job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,371 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Civil Rights Mediator | On-Call/Temporary

Davenport, IA • On-site

City of Davenport
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees

$40 - $60/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 4 days ago


City Of Davenport (Iowa) rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Definition The Davenport Civil Rights Commission is the employer for this position. The Part-Time Civil Rights Mediator provides professional mediation services to assist the Civil Rights Commission in resolving complaints of discrimination. This position is responsible for facilitating equitable resolutions between parties, promoting understanding of civil rights laws, and supporting Commission enforcement objectives.

The role is on-call/temporary, scheduled as needed to respond to cases requiring mediation. Examples Of Duties Key Responsibilities: Conduct civil rights mediations between complainants and respondents to achieve mutually agreeable resolutions. Prepare for mediation sessions by reviewing case materials, background documentation, and applicable statutes or regulations.

Facilitate dialogue in a neutral, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed manner. Assist parties in understanding civil rights laws, processes, and potential outcomes of mediation. Document mediation sessions, agreements, and outcomes, and submit reports to the Commission or supervising staff.

Provide recommendations to the Commission or senior staff regarding systemic issues identified through mediation cases. Maintain confidentiality and impartiality in all interactions with parties. Collaborate with Commission staff, legal counsel, and community partners to support timely and effective resolution of complaints.

Participate in training or professional development related to civil rights, mediation techniques, and cultural competency as needed. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in law, social sciences, conflict resolution, or a related field. Minimum of two years of professional experience in mediation, dispute resolution, civil rights, or related professional practice.

Demonstrated knowledge of civil rights laws, principles of equity, and dispute resolution processes. Experience working with diverse populations and applying culturally responsive, trauma-informed approaches. Preferred Qualifications: Juris Doctor (J.D.) or advanced degree in conflict resolution, law, or related field

Certification or formal training in mediation or alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Bilingual skills (Spanish, Vietnamese, or other languages relevant to the community). Knowledge and Skills Knowledge of civil rights legislation, regulations, and complaint processes.

Skilled in mediation, conflict resolution, and negotiation techniques. Strong interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills. Ability to remain impartial and professional in sensitive or high-conflict situations.

Proficiency in documenting proceedings and preparing clear written summaries. Ability to manage time effectively in an on-call, flexible work schedule. Note: This position is on-call and does not guarantee a set number of hours.

Mediators are expected to provide services as requested and must have reliable transportation to attend sessions at various locations.


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