Court Reporter - Official Certified Shorthand Reporter (D5 Location TBD)

Full Job Description

The Iowa Judicial Branch, in the Fifth District (part time in Polk County, full time in Polk County, and full time in surrounding rural counties), seeks applicants for a Certified Court Reporter to record court proceedings and provide official transcripts.

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 $30.59 - $48.87 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.

Qualifications

The incumbent must meet the minimum requirements to qualify for the position.

1. High school diploma (or high school equivalency diploma).
2. Must have one of the following,
   1. Registered Professional Reporter (RPR) from the National Court Reporters Association.
   2. Certified Verbatim Reporter (CVR) from the National Verbatim Reporters Association.
   3. 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with court or legal process or terminology.
• Experience with accurate record keeping, including legal and medical terminology.
• Customer service experience.
• Professional verbal and written communication experience.
• Ability to produce accurate and timely transcripts under tight deadlines per the code.
• Strong computer skills including video conference (GTM/Zoom).
• Ability to adapt to many different situations.

The Iowa Judicial Branch is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action 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 AFL-CIO (AFSCME).

To apply, click the To Apply and complete the application and attach PDF versions of your cover letter and resume.