Arbitrators Job Description, Duties & Salary

Employment Prospects

Employers

Only about 7,060 arbitrators are employed in the United States. They work for (or are affiliated with) court systems, law firms, labor relations boards, government agencies, or professional associations. Some operate their own arbitration firms.

Starting Out

Most aspiring arbitrators have worked at least three years—but often longer—in their chosen industry (law, business, etc.) before trying to enter the field. Entry requirements vary for each employer and industry. A typical entry path might involve completing a training program offered by an association, government agency, or other entity; receiving a certificate or other credential for completing the training and meeting other requirements; and then applying to become an arbitrator. An example of such a process can be found at FINRA’s Web site (https://www.finra.org/arbitration-mediation/rules-case-resources/arbitrator-training). Some professional associations—such as the American Arbitration Association—maintain rosters of arbitrators that they make available to parties that are seeking arbitration services. Arbitrators on the association’s roster have been recommended by leaders in various industries.

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