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Staff Attorney Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Collaborate with attorneys and support staff to provide exceptional client service. * Participate in business development and community engagement efforts as desired. Qualifications * Juris Doctor (J.

Associate Attorney

Waterloo, IA · On-site +1

$80K/yr

The firm provides significant support staff assistance and a robust advertising budget to help grow ... Seeking an ambitious associate attorney with 2-5+ years' experience in civil litigation or workers ...

Attorney/Lawyer

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

$90K - $120K/yr

Family Law Attorney - Des Moines, IA Build a Meaningful Career in Family Law Are you looking for a legal career where you can make a real difference in clients' lives while gaining valuable courtroom ...

Attorney/Lawyer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site +1

$90K - $120K/yr

Family Law Attorney - Cedar Rapids, IA Build a Meaningful Career in Family Law Are you looking for a legal career where you can make a real difference in clients' lives while gaining valuable ...

Attorney/Lawyer

Ames, IA · On-site +1

$90K - $120K/yr

Family Law Attorney - Des Moines, IA or Cedar Rapids, IA Build a Meaningful Career in Family Law Are you looking for a legal career where you can make a real difference in clients' lives while ...

Attorney/Lawyer

Sioux City, IA · On-site +1

$90K - $120K/yr

Family Law Attorney - Des Moines, IA or Cedar Rapids, IA Build a Meaningful Career in Family Law Are you looking for a legal career where you can make a real difference in clients' lives while ...

Attorney/Lawyer

Iowa City, IA · On-site +1

$90K - $120K/yr

Family Law Attorney - Des Moines, IA or Cedar Rapids, IA Build a Meaningful Career in Family Law Are you looking for a legal career where you can make a real difference in clients' lives while ...

Attorney/Lawyer

Davenport, IA · On-site +1

$90K - $120K/yr

Family Law Attorney - Des Moines, IA or Cedar Rapids, IA Build a Meaningful Career in Family Law Are you looking for a legal career where you can make a real difference in clients' lives while ...

C. is seeking an Attorney - Personal Injury to join our team in Davenport or West Des Moines, Iowa ... The firm and its staff have received over 250 awards praising its service and dedication to the ...

C. is seeking an Attorney - Personal Injury to join our team in Davenport or West Des Moines, Iowa ... The firm and its staff have received over 250 awards praising its service and dedication to the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Staff Attorney information

See Iowa salary details

$47.4K

$85.9K

$142.3K

How much do staff attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for staff attorney in Iowa is $85,892.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,200.00 and $99,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a staff attorney?

A staff attorney works for a law firm or another organization. Staff attorneys are associates with law degrees who have passed the Bar Exam in their states. They research, analyze, and write about complex legal issues. Duties and responsibilities of all staff attorney jobs include legal research and support to the partners in a law firm. Staff attorneys may also draft portions of legal opinions based on their research as well as verify cited sources, and review documents at the request of a partner. Staff attorney is a good position for attorneys who wish to continue in the legal profession.

What is a staff attorney?

A staff attorney is a licensed lawyer employed by an organization, law firm, nonprofit, or government agency to provide legal advice, conduct research, draft documents, and represent clients or the organization in legal matters. Unlike partners or associates who may have client development or managerial responsibilities, staff attorneys typically focus on substantive legal work and supporting ongoing cases. Their duties often include reviewing and preparing legal documents, assisting with litigation, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Staff attorneys play a vital role in supporting legal teams and ensuring that legal services are delivered efficiently and effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a staff attorney?

To thrive as a Staff Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, strong legal research, and writing abilities. Familiarity with legal research platforms like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and case management systems, is typically required. Outstanding analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in supporting clients and collaborating with colleagues. These competencies are essential for delivering high-quality legal counsel, ensuring compliance, and effectively managing caseloads in a legal environment.

What are some common challenges staff attorneys face when managing multiple cases simultaneously?

Staff Attorneys often juggle a high volume of cases, each with distinct deadlines and documentation requirements. Balancing priorities while maintaining attention to detail can be challenging, especially when urgent matters arise unexpectedly. Effective time management and strong organizational skills are essential for meeting court deadlines and collaborating with colleagues, such as paralegals and senior attorneys. Regular communication with team members and leveraging case management software can help alleviate these challenges and ensure smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Staff Attorney vs Associate Attorney?

AspectStaff AttorneyAssociate Attorney
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), bar admissionJuris Doctor (JD), bar admission
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, legal departments, nonprofitsLaw firms, corporate legal teams, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageLegal organizations, nonprofits, governmentPrivate law firms, corporate legal departments
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, career paths, responsibilitiesEntry-level to mid-level legal roles, career progression

Both Staff Attorneys and Associate Attorneys typically hold a JD and are bar-certified. Staff Attorneys often work in legal departments or nonprofits, focusing on specific legal tasks without client management, while Associate Attorneys usually work in law firms or corporate settings, handling client cases and gaining experience. The roles are similar but differ mainly in work environment and responsibilities, with Staff Attorneys often having more specialized or in-house roles.

Do you need to pass the bar to be a staff attorney?

Yes, a staff attorney typically must pass the bar exam in the jurisdiction where they practice, as it is a requirement to provide legal services and represent clients. Licensing ensures they are qualified to interpret and apply the law professionally. Some positions may also require ongoing legal education or certification renewal.

How much do staff attorneys make in the US?

Staff attorneys in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and sector. Salaries can vary based on whether they work in government, private firms, or nonprofit organizations, and often include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What does it mean to be a staff attorney?

A staff attorney is a legal professional who provides legal advice, drafts documents, and represents clients or organizations in legal matters. They often work within law firms, government agencies, or non-profits, and may specialize in areas such as litigation, compliance, or policy. Strong legal research, writing skills, and a law degree are typically required for this role.

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

The most popular types of Staff Attorney jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Staff Attorney jobs in Iowa?

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

What are popular job titles related to Staff Attorney jobs in IA?

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

Infographic showing various Staff Attorney job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,892 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Staff Counsel (Iowa)

American Family Mutual Insurance Company Si

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site, Remote

$113K - $194K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


American Family Insurance rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

223rd of 309 rated insurance


Job description

At American Family Insurance, we believe in more than just providing coverage-we're here to stand by our customers when they need us most. As a Senior Litigation Attorney, you'll play a vital role in protecting our policyholders, guiding them through challenging times, and ensuring their voices are heard in the legal system.
Depending on the candidate pool, this position may be filled at a higher level to maintain alignment with experience and qualifications.
#LI-Remote

Position Compensation Range:

$113,000.00 - $194,000.00

Pay Rate Type:

Salary

Compensation may vary based on the job level and your geographic work location. Relocation support is offered for eligible candidates.

Why Choose American Family Insurance?

  • Purpose-Driven Work:Help real people navigate complex legal challenges. Your expertise will make a difference in their lives and communities

  • Career Growth:Build a long-term career with us. Gain valuable litigation experience, sharpen your trial skills, and develop specialty expertise in areas like auto, property, workers' compensation, and more

  • Supportive Team Culture:Collaborate with talented colleagues and report directly to a Senior Manager in our Legal department. We're committed to your professional development and success

  • Commitment to Excellence:Join a company recognized for integrity, innovation, and service. Be part of a team that sets the standard for legal representation in the insurance industry

What You'll Do:

  • Manage moderately complex civil litigation for American Family and our insureds, following established guidelines and the highest ethical standards

  • Analyze cases, strategize for optimal outcomes, and pursue settlements when appropriate

  • Lead discovery, draft pleadings and briefs, and conduct research to support your litigation strategy

  • Represent clients in trials, mediations, arbitrations, and settlement conferences

  • Advocate for our clients in state and federal courts, administrative tribunals, and regulatory hearings

  • Stay ahead of legal trends and ensure our policies remain strong and enforceable

Who We're Looking For:

  • Experienced attorneys passionate about making a difference for clients and communities

  • Professionals eager to grow, learn, and contribute to a dynamic legal team

  • Individuals committed to excellence, integrity, and collaboration

What we need from you:

  • Demonstrated experience providing customer-driven solutions, support or service

  • Demonstrated experience preparing civil pleadings, motions and discovery and deposing witnesses

  • Demonstrated litigation experience

  • Solid knowledge and understanding of rules of Professional Responsibility for the jurisdiction in which they practice

  • Solid knowledge and understanding of tort, contract, and insurance law

  • Admitted to the Iowa State Bar. Additional admission to the Nebraska State Bar or willingness to gain admission to the Nebraska State Bar preferred

  • Juris Doctor

Additional Information
  • To ensure a strong start, all employees participate in our New Employee Orientation during their first week. This experience is held in person at our Madison, WI Headquarters or one of our AmFam core locations to help you connect with our mission, meet key team members and build relationships that support your growth. At times, sessions may be delivered virtually based on scheduling and availability.
  • Offer to selected candidate will be made contingent on the results of applicable background checks
  • Offer to selected candidate is contingent on signing a non-disclosure agreement for proprietary information, trade secrets, and inventions
  • Sponsorship will not be considered for this position unless specified in the posting

We provide benefits that support your physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing. You will have access to comprehensive medical, dental, vision and wellbeing benefits that enable you to take care of your health. We also offer a competitive 401(k) contribution, a pension plan, an annual incentive, 9 paid holidays and a paid time off program (23 days accrued annually for full-time employees). In addition, our student loan repayment program and paid-family leave are available to support our employees and their families. Interns and contingent workers are not eligible for American Family Insurance Group benefits.

We are an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws pertaining to non-discrimination, non-harassment and equal opportunity. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law.

American Family Insurance is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please email AskHR@AmFam.com to request a reasonable accommodation.

#LI-MN2

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