ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Stenotype Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Berks County

Court Reporter II (Courthouse)

Reading, PA · On-site

$36.95/hr

This position is responsible for the verbatim recordation by stenotype machine of all types of court proceedings and the preparation of a complete and accurate transcription from stenotype notes and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsStenotype Jobs

Stenotype information

See salary details

$8

$26

$61

How much do stenotype jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for stenotype in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will stenographers be replaced by AI?

Stenographers, such as court reporters and captioners, use specialized shorthand and stenotype machines to transcribe spoken words in real-time. While AI and speech recognition technology are advancing, stenographers' skills remain essential for accuracy and handling complex language, and they are unlikely to be fully replaced in the near future. Many roles still require human oversight and expertise.

What is a stenotype and what does a stenotypist do?

A stenotype is a specialized keyboard machine used by stenotypists to type spoken words rapidly using shorthand, often in real-time. Stenotypists, also known as court reporters or captioners, use this machine to transcribe speech during legal proceedings, meetings, or live broadcasts. Their work ensures accurate records of spoken communication, which are essential for legal, media, and business documentation. Stenotypists need excellent listening skills, fast and accurate typing abilities, and specialized training to operate the stenotype machine.

What are some common challenges faced by stenotype operators during live proceedings, and how can they be managed?

Stenotype operators often face challenges such as maintaining high accuracy under pressure, keeping pace with fast speakers, and handling technical malfunctions. To manage these, operators regularly practice their shorthand skills, familiarize themselves with specialized vocabulary, and use backup recording systems. Collaboration with attorneys and judges to clarify unclear statements, as well as continuous professional development, also help ensure reliable transcripts and minimize errors.

Where do stenographers make the most money?

Stenographers tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high demand for court reporting and legal transcription services, such as large metropolitan areas or states with extensive legal systems. Experience, certification, and proficiency with stenotype machines also influence earning potential, regardless of location.

Are stenographers still in demand?

Stenographers, including court reporters and captioners, are still in demand due to the need for accurate transcription in legal, medical, and broadcast settings. The profession requires specialized skills and certification, and employment opportunities are expected to grow steadily with technological advancements complementing traditional stenography roles.

What kind of jobs use stenography?

Stenography is used in court reporting, captioning for live television, and transcription services. Professionals in these roles use stenotype machines and require certification to produce accurate, real-time transcripts in legal, media, or accessibility settings.

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

To thrive as a Stenotype (court reporter), you need excellent listening skills, fast and accurate typing abilities, and certification from an accredited court reporting program. Proficiency with stenotype machines, computer-aided transcription (CAT) software, and familiarity with legal terminology are typically required. Attention to detail, concentration, and strong time management make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure accurate and timely transcription of legal proceedings, which is critical for maintaining official records.

What is the difference between Stenotype vs Court Reporter?

AspectStenotypeCourt Reporter
CredentialsStenotype certification, shorthand machine skillsCertification often required, shorthand skills, legal knowledge
Work EnvironmentTranscription in real-time, courtrooms, live eventsRecording court proceedings, legal settings, depositions
Industry UsageLegal, government, live captioningLegal, courtrooms, legal documentation

Stenotype and Court Reporter roles overlap significantly, with both requiring stenotype machine skills and certification. While stenographers focus on real-time transcription and captioning, court reporters primarily record and prepare official legal transcripts. Both careers are vital in legal and live event settings, often sharing similar credentials and work environments.

More about Stenotype jobs
What job categories do people searching Stenotype jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Stenotype jobs are:
Stenotype jobs near you
Infographic showing various Stenotype job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Court Reporter II (Courthouse)

County of Berks, Pennsylvania

Reading, PA

$36.95/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

  • The Starting Rate for this position is $36.95 per hour
  • 35 hours per week

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for the verbatim recordation by stenotype machine of all types of court proceedings and the preparation of a complete and accurate transcription from stenotype notes and accompanying computer SD card of such proceedings in accordance with established court-mandated procedures and time constraints.  Responsible for the marking and the initial, temporary custody of exhibits offered during any court proceeding.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

Essential Functions

  1. Stenographically record court proceedings by use of a stenotype machine.
  2. When directed by the Court, read back portions of the record during proceedings.
  3. Prepare orders dictated from the bench by judges.
  4. Prepare, by court order or authorization, transcripts by means of Computer Aided Transcription (CAT) software, as requested, within specified time constraints.
  5. Mark all exhibits offered during court proceedings and maintain a record and description of each.
  6. Maintain log and storage of both paper notes and accompanying computer SD cards of all proceedings for an indefinite period of time.

Non-Essential Functions

  • Assume the duties of Chief Court Reporter when requested.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • High school diploma or possession of a G.E.D. Certificate from a recognized issuing agency.
  • Successful completion and graduation from an NCRA-accredited school of court reporting, requiring a minimum of 225 wpm sustained dictation with 97% accuracy, or an associate degree in Specialized Business (Court Reporting).
  • Four (4) years of experience in general court reporting.
  • Any equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
  • Possession of the NCRA RPR designation or successful completion of the in-house examination.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  • Thorough knowledge of English usage, punctuation, spelling, and varied technical terminology.
  • Working knowledge of the conduct of legal proceedings.
  • Skill in taking and transcribing verbatim testimony for sustained periods of time received at rapid and changing speeds and inflections from several persons.
  • Must be familiar with and have the ability to use Computer-Aided Transcription software in the preparation of transcripts.
  • Excellent typing skills.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Ability to operate office equipment, i.e., printers, copy machines, and binders.
  • Ability to effectively deal with judges, attorneys, government officials, and parties involved in litigation.
  • Ability to handle stress.
  • Physical presence in the office is required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Must be able to sit for long periods of time (hours) without a break.
  • Must be able to carry a stenotype machine, along with associated accessories, from
  • office to courtroom.
  • Must possess excellent hearing.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

  • This position works at the pleasure of an assigned judge and must be available to work both before and after normal working hours in court.
  • This position has time constraints on transcript production (14 days), which may require working before and past normal working hours and on weekends.

This position description serves as a guideline for communicating the essential functions and other information about the position to the applicant/employee. It is not intended to create a binding employment contract nor cover every detail of the position and may be changed where appropriate.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:


The County of Berks provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.


This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.


About Us:

Berks County is a combination of rich farm country, industry, beautiful parks, entertainment, and top-notch educational institutions. Whether you are interested in County services, the availability of our parks, tax rates, or other county information, this is the place to start.

Mission Statement:

It is the mission of Berks County government and all County employees to administer and deliver services to the citizens of the County in the most effective, efficient and professional manner possible within the constraints of the financial resources available.

Apply