
The sense of stability coupled with a decent salary makes the job of a stenographer a good career choice for those who are skilled in typing and transcribing speech. This article provides you more information about this job and the salary prospects.
The job of stenographers is closely linked to those of court reporters. In essence, the fundamentals of both the jobs are the same, that is, to capture the recordings of legal proceedings in the court. However, the employment opportunities for these professionals is not just restricted to courts only. With the number of court cases rising steadily, the demand for stenographers is on the rise, and an individual having the right set of skills can consider this as a good career option.
Average Pay Range
The salary range, based on research done in 2010, averages between USD 30,000 to USD 60,000. Depending on the number of years one has worked in the industry, the pay scale varies significantly. Also, the type of industry determines the job responsibilities, and hence, the earning potential varies from industry to industry. The highest pay is enjoyed by those in the government courts, where it is usually between USD 35,000 to USD 65,000.
The salary range is majorly dependent on the educational qualifications or certifications one has. If one has just started working, then he may not earn a lot initially, however, with work experience one has the opportunity to earn more. It also depends on the type of employer. In case one is working in the court, his/her earnings would vary from those that work in local governments and business support services. The salaries generally average nearly USD 50,000. The geographical location also is a major factor that decides the pay scale. It depends on the cost of living of that city. A higher cost of living will translate into higher remuneration.
Career Opportunities
The transcriptions become absolutely important in dealing with future cases. They’re kept as an official legal record and can be a great tool in a particular case. These professionals are generally found in courtrooms, but they can also be employed by big business units, where the management needs them for summarizing and briefing their information. Besides, they also assist the judges and attorneys in the trials.
Requirements
Anybody willing to be a stenographer must first equip himself/herself with the right set of skills by opting for an associate or preferably a graduate degree from an accredited institution. The educational qualifications must be strongly backed by excellent typing speed and accuracy (at least 225 words per minute). Good listening skills and ability to concentrate are essential to make this career successful. Most states require them to have a license, therefore, one must check the requirements corresponding to the location he/she is working in.
Although one can’t make very hefty salaries in this field, the compensation is quite competitive in comparison with many jobs. Added to these benefits are the reputation and security of working in the judicial system.