ARBITRATION

Arbitration positions involve helping resolve disputes by reviewing evidence, hearing arguments, and issuing binding or non-binding decisions. Professionals in this role ensure a fair and efficient process outside of court.

Fellowships

AAA Higginbotham Fellows Program

Organization Name: American Arbitration Association 
Location: New York City

Description: The American Arbitration Association (AAA) created the AAA A. Leon Higginbotham, Jr. Fellows Program ("AAA Higginbotham Fellows Program") in 2009 in order to provide training, mentorship and networking opportunities to up-and-coming diverse alternative dispute resolution professionals who have historically not been included in meaningful participation in the field of alternative dispute resolution.

The foundation of the Fellowship is a week-long intensive training program conducted at the AAA’s offices, consisting of interactive seminars on dispute resolution topics taught by leading ADR professionals, participation in mock arbitrations and mediations, and courses focused on building a career in ADR. Fellows also have the opportunity to attend the AAA’s Annual Meeting’s related events. Fellows are also matched with AAA arbitrators and mediators in their field of interest who commit to providing networking opportunities and advice to Fellows during the Fellowship year. Past Fellows have utilized their mentorships to shadow their mentors at arbitration hearings, co-facilitate ADR trainings, obtain career advice and critique their business plans. In addition, Fellows have served as speakers at several AAA sponsored events.

Limited scholarships will be available. Request for scholarship should be made at the time of application outlining financial need. 

Eligibility:

• Lawyers, arbitrators, mediators, and other ADR practitioners. 
• Individuals who have shown a strong interest and commitment to ADR through work experience, pro-bono efforts, recommendations, academic achievements, personal essays, articles, and current work plans. 
• Individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, including racially and ethnically diverse candidates, women, individuals with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Required Documents:

• Application Form 
• Cover Letter: Detail your interest, experience, and achievements in ADR.
• Resume or CV 
• Recommendation Letter: Preferably from someone knowledgeable about your ADR experience and commitment 

Compensation: unpaid, participants are responsible for their travel-related expenses.

How to Apply: https://www.adr.org/higginbotham-fellows-program/

• Litigator with at least 10 years of experience
• Academic with an ADR backgroundOther professional with industry-specific experience
• Academics, lawyers, industry-specific professionals, and ADR practitioners.
• Applicants should demonstrate interest and motivation to build a practice in dispute resolution.
• Preference is given to applicants with ADR-related experience, including litigators with substantial experience, academics with an ADR background, and other professionals with industry-specific experience.

• A cover letter detailing your interest, experience and achievements in the ADR field.
• A current resume/CV.
• Two recommendation letters from persons knowledgeable about your interest and experience (if any) in dispute resolution.
• A personal statement (no more than two pages). The personal statement should be a narrative describing your motivation for pursuing a career in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and highlighting key experiences that have shaped your journey, including academic achievements, community impact, professional experiences, and any challenges you have overcome, as well as any contributions you hope to make within ADR.

How to Apply: https://www.jamsadr.com/jams-fellowship-program

SQUIRE PATTON BOGGS IDR FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM

• Currently enrolled at a US law school
• A rising 3L student at the time of the fellowship
• Interested in a career in international arbitration
• Possesses proof of US citizenship/residency
• Willing to work long-term outside the US

• One-page cover letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Law school grade transcript
• List of three references
• Writing sample

How to Apply: https://www.squirepattonboggs.com/en/careers/about/student-and-graduate/idr-fellowship-program

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Mentorships

• A genuine desire to commit a substantial portion of their time to serve as commercial arbitrators;
• A strong interest in the Mission and Guiding Principles of CCA, including its commitment to diversity and inclusion; and
• A willingness to commit their time to the Program meetings and CCA events.
• Qualified attorneys and non-attorneys are welcome to apply for the Program.

How to Apply: https://www.ccarbitrators.org/associate-mentor-program/

*Tuition Waiver

Registration and other participation fees will be waived for all upcoming CCA events that are part of the Program, including the Annual Meetings. Successful applicants are expected to pay their expenses for travel, meals, lodging and incidental expenses for CCA events. However, an expense reimbursement scholarship (maximum $3,000 per year) is available to assist with travel, meals, lodging and incidental expenses for successful Applicants who require such financial assistance in order to participate in the Program (details available upon request).

ARBITRALWOMEN MENTORSHIP PROGRAMME

• Must be a member of ArbitralWomen
• Open to practitioners in private practice, general counsel, mediators, arbitrators, experts, and other dispute resolution professionals
• Women with high potential who are earlier in their careers are the target mentee population
• Experienced practitioners (general counsel, law firm lawyers, mediators, arbitrators, experts) are eligible to serve as mentors

How to Apply: https://arbitralwomen.org/programmes/mentorship 

*(Have to be a member to access mentorship application)

Paid Positions

Director of ADR Services

Organization Name: American Arbitration Association

Location: Seattle, WA, United States

Date Posted: Dec 11, 2025

Description: The Director of ADR Services is responsible for driving business development in the assigned region, promoting dispute resolution services, and managing the administration of arbitration and mediation cases. The role involves building effective business relationships with clients, advocates, and industry partners, and promoting the use of AAA's ADR services. 

This is a hybrid position (1-2 days or more in office, dependent on business need) and an annual incentive opportunity targeting 10%. Compensation for this position is based on location. This position requires fluency in both English and Spanish or French, including the ability to communicate effectively in written and spoken formats would  be desirable.

• San Francisco, CA: $104,800 - $111,000
• Los Angeles, CA I Seattle, WA : $98,300 - $104,100

The American Arbitration Association (AAA) is the leading provider of arbitration and mediation dispute resolution services, and has consistently been named one of the 50 best non-profits to work for by the Non-Profit Times, our employees enjoy rewarding careers in a fast-paced, results-driven environment. We offer a competitive compensation package, including incentives. Eligible employees also participate in a comprehensive benefits program that includes medical, dental, orthodontia, vision coverage, student loan repayment, 403(b) retirement plan with substantial company match, discounted pet insurance, and generous paid-time-off benefits. 

Responsibilities: 

• Serves as primary case management contact with parties and mediators on assigned cases; makes decisions on case issues in consultation with the Regional VP.
• Proactively identifies and pursues opportunities to grow the organization's ADR services business. Develops strategic plans and pitches to potential clients.
• Plays a vital role in the regional legal, business and ADR communities, focusing on being a resource to facilitate dispute resolution and promote the use of AAA's ADR services. Builds and maintains strong relationships with clients, prospects, and industry partners.
• Develops and delivers engaging presentations to various stakeholder groups, effectively communicating the organization's value proposition.
• Manages assigned cases and ensures information is entered and maintained in case management system; makes case-related decisions by applying knowledge of rules and procedures and exercising independent judgment and discretion.
• Advises arbitrators on procedural hearing management and related issues.
• Analyzes needs, problems and trends of users as well as the quality of service delivered by pulling relevant metrics from the existing database; responds to inquiries regarding AAA's ADR services in a timely manner.
• Participates in hearings/conferences and provides feedback and recommendations where appropriate to the RVP in order to maintain or improve the quality and delivery of services.
• Helps recruit panel members consistent with AAA's Qualification Criteria for Admittance to the Roster of Arbitrators and Mediators; participates in review of panel members based on existing caseloads and needs.
• Reviews and tracks trends regarding the regional markets where we provide our services.
• Assists with arbitrator training programs, education programs/conferences and elections as necessary.
• Ensures confidentiality of case information and case records; adheres to the AAA's information security and data privacy policies, procedures, and practices.
• Demonstrates regular, reliable, and predictable job attendance.
• Attends on-site and in-person meetings and training sessions.

Eligibility:

• Education & Experience: Bachelor's degree required in business, legal, or related discipline (advanced degree preferred); 3-5 years of related work experience in a business development role, preferably in the Legal Services field; or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Business Development Skills: Proven track record of identifying, pursuing and closing new business opportunities. Adept at building and managing client relationships. Strategic thinker with strong sales and negotiation abilities.
• Strong presentation and communications skills (written and verbal).
• Technology Skills: Intermediate proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Travel: Ability to travel periodically (20%) to clients, training events, and other AAA offices and conferences.

How To Apply: https://careers.adr.org/jobs/17022906-director-of-adr-services

CPR Y-ADR: YOUNG LEADERS IN ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

• 45 years old or younger, OR
• Fewer than 8 years of professional experience in international or domestic ADR practice or other conflict prevention and resolution fields
• Open to CPR members and non-members alike

How to Apply: https://www.cpradr.org/y-adr-steering-committee-application 

Salons/Incubators

• Those interested in incorporating work as a mediator or arbitrator while still advocating;
• Those who are interested in pursuing a judicial career and will benefit from serving as a neutral to gain valuable experience before applying for or running for a judicial position; and
• Those who wish to pursue a career as a full-time mediator and/or arbitrator, either ad hoc or by joining an ADR provider

How to Apply: https://www.napaba.org/page/adr_institute. (APPLICATION OPENS EARLY JUNE)

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Scholarships

AAR-ICDR Diversity Scholarship Grants

Organization Name: American Arbitration Association-International Centre for Dispute Resolution Foundation(AAA-ICDR Foundation)
Description: The Fund provides financial assistance of up to $2,000 to students or professionals. This support can be used towards:

· Degree program or fellowship in alternative dispute resolution

· Conference or training program in alternative dispute resolution

Access education and training opportunities that advance careers and enhance inclusivity within the field.

Eligibility:

• Individuals with diverse perspectives, experiences and backgrounds including women, racially and ethnically diverse candidates, individuals with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
• Acceptance in a degree program or fellowship in alternative dispute resolution or confirmation of registration at a well-recognized conference or training program in alternative dispute resolution.
• Need for financial assistance.

Required Documents:

Completion of the online application, complete with all required attachments, including:

• One-page cover letter of interest including details of qualifying ADR degree program, fellowship or well-recognized conference
• Supporting program materials showing acceptance to an ADR degree program or fellowship or registration to a well-recognized ADR conference
• Biography to be used for announcement of scholarship awards

How To Apply: https://www.aaaicdrfoundation.org/diversity-scholarship

ABA SECTION OF DISPUTE RESOLUTION — ESSAY AND WRITING COMPETITIONS (CASH PRIZES)

• Varies by competition category, student competitions are limited to enrolled law students; practitioner competitions are open to licensed attorneys and ADR professionals
• ABA membership may be required for some categories; confirm before applying

• Written essay or article submission per the competition prompt
• Author biography
• [Confirm full submission requirements with ABA DR Section]

Trainings

Labor Arbitrator Development Program 2026

Organization Name: ILR Scheinman Institute

Location: New York City and Washington, DC

Description:

With a looming shortage of qualified labor arbitrators, there is an urgent need to cultivate a new generation of professionals who understand the complexities of today’s workforce. The Scheinman Institute on Conflict Resolution at Cornell ILR offers two unique training opportunities designed to meet this demand:

• Foundations of Labor Arbitration Course
• Labor Arbitrator Development Program – Cohort Four

Together, these programs provide emergent arbitrators with the essential training, practical skills, personalized mentoring, and hands-on experience needed to build a successful career in labor arbitration.

Over 18-months hybrid and in-person, the program offers:

• The opportunity to learn from world-class faculty in the field of labor/management arbitration
• Award writing instruction and feedback on draft awards
• Development of the arbitration process skills necessary to conduct quality hearings
• Instruction and individualized assistance in developing a conflict resolution career plan
• Instruction in contract interpretation, discipline and just cause, evidence, and ethics

Financing options and scholarships are available. Please contact ilrcustomerservice@cornell.edu for more information. 

Cost: $10,000

Required Documents:

• Application Form 
• Essay
• Resume or CV 
• Two Letters of Professional Reference 

How To Apply: https://www.ilr.cornell.edu/scheinman-institute/labor-arbitrator-development-program/application

HARVARD ADVANCED MEDIATION INTENSIVE

• Experienced mediators, lawyers, and judges with foundational mediation training already completed
• Professionals who oversee or regularly participate in mediations in legal, corporate, healthcare, education, or nonprofit settings
• Applicants must have completed a 40-hour mediation training, the Harvard Mediation Intensive, or an equivalent program
• Proficiency in English is required — all sessions are conducted in English through intensive simulations and discussions
• Globally diverse participants from various industries are welcome

• Online registration through the PON website
• Applicants may be contacted to assess communication skills and fit for the advanced program

NEW YORK COMMUNITY DISPUTE RESOLUTION CENTER (CDRC) BASIC MEDIATION TRAINING

• Open to members of the public — no law degree, bar admission, or prior mediation experience required
• Must be willing to complete the 30-hour Basic Mediation Training and the apprenticeship process
• Must be willing to volunteer a minimum number of hours as a mediator at the CDRC
• Training waiver may be granted for equivalent prior training, in consultation with OCA

• Resume
• Volunteer application (obtained from the local CDRC)
• Basic Mediation Training certificate (if not receiving training through the CDRC)

How to Apply: Locate your nearest CDRC through the NYSDRA directory at https://www.nysdra.org — then contact that center directly to inquire about volunteer mediator training. General information on the path to becoming a mediator in NY: https://www.nysdra.org/become-a-mediator.

UC LAW SAN FRANCISCO — 40-HOUR MEDIATION CERTIFICATION TRAINING (CNDR)

• Open to the general public — no law degree or prior mediation experience required
• Suitable for attorneys, HR professionals, social workers, business professionals, and anyone dealing with conflict in a professional context

• Registration through the CNDR website (no formal application; registration on a first-come basis)

Training Cost: 

• Standard Registration Fee – $2,295
• Alumni, Government, and Nonprofit Rate – $2,095

How to Apply: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1783179882029?aff=oddtdtcreator

Volunteer

NEW JERSEY — CIVIL MEDIATION PANEL (NJ COURTS)

How to Apply: https://www.njcourts.gov/courts/civil/mediation

CALIFORNIA — SUPERIOR COURT DAY-OF-COURT VOLUNTEER MEDIATOR PROGRAMS (STATEWIDE)

• Completed at least 40 hours of mediation training with a significant role-play component
• Served as mediator or co-mediator in at least 10 prior mediations (onsite mentoring available for those who do not yet meet this threshold)
• Commitment to serve on the volunteer panel for a minimum of one year
• Must be willing to be observed and to observe others as part of the program

• Court-specific application form (available on each county's ADR program page)
• Documentation of training hours and prior mediation experience

How to Apply (Alameda County as example): https://eportal.alameda.courts.ca.gov/?q=node/413 — For other California counties, search "[County Name] Superior Court ADR volunteer mediator" or visit the California Courts website at https://www.courts.ca.gov/programs-adr.htm

FLORIDA — SUPREME COURT CERTIFIED MEDIATOR PATHWAY (STATE COURT)

• At least 21 years of age
• Good moral character
• Minimum of a high school diploma
• 100 total points under the Florida point system, including: 30 points for completing an approved certification training program, education points, and mentorship points (10 per observation, 15 per co-mediation)
• Must complete observations and co-mediations with at least two different Florida Supreme Court certified mediators

• Application to the Florida Dispute Resolution Center (DRC)
• Documentation of training completion, education credentials, and mentorship activity

How to Apply: https://www.flcourts.gov/Resources-Services/Alternative-Dispute-Resolution/Mediator-Certification-Qualifications-Resources

DC COURTS — MULTI-DOOR DISPUTE RESOLUTION DIVISION VOLUNTEER MEDIATOR PROGRAM

• Civil, Tax, Probate: Must be an attorney admitted to the bar in any US state
• Small Claims, Landlord/Tenant, Family, Child Protection: Bar admission not required; program-specific training and mentorship requirements apply
• All applicants must complete the program's designated training and mentorship progression

• (Confirm application materials with Multi-Door directly — rosters may not always be open)

ALL OTHER STATES — HOW TO FIND YOUR STATE COURT VOLUNTEER MEDIATOR PROGRAM

Useful reference: The most comprehensive publicly available state-by-state breakdown of court mediator qualification requirements, updated through 2026, is maintained at: https://onlinemasteroflegalstudies.com/career-guides/become-a-mediator/court-certified-mediation-requirements-by-state/

CASE MANAGEMENT 

Case management roles focus on coordinating dispute resolution cases from start to finish. This includes scheduling hearings, managing communications between parties, and maintaining accurate case records.

CASE ADMINISTRATOR (LEGAL SERVICES/ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT)

• Associate's degree in business or related discipline preferred; 2 years of related administrative or customer service experience in a professional services environment, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite; ability to learn case management systems
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and time management
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
• 0–2 years of experience is acceptable for entry-level Case Administrator roles

• Resume
• Application submitted through the AAA careers portal

CASE ADMINISTRATOR (LEGAL SERVICES/ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT)

• Bachelor's degree and 4 years of related experience, or equivalent combination; JD strongly preferred
• Expertise with electronic docket management programs and web-based portal systems
• Excellent customer service, interpersonal, and written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills; ability to manage multiple tasks accurately in a fast-paced environment
• Must function effectively in a team environment under tight deadlines

• Resume
• Application submitted through FINRA's careers portal at finra.org/careers

CONFLICT PROGRAM COORDINATION

Conflict program coordinators design, implement, and oversee initiatives that promote constructive conflict resolution. They often manage partnerships, training, and outreach to strengthen community or organizational ADR efforts. 

There are no job postings available at the moment. Please check back soon for new opportunities.

FACILITATION

Facilitators guide discussions among groups or organizations to help them reach consensus on key issues. They create structured, inclusive environments that promote open dialogue and collaborative problem-solving.

There are no job postings available at the moment. Please check back soon for new opportunities.

MEDIATION

Mediators assist parties in resolving disputes through guided conversation and negotiation. They help clarify interests, explore solutions, and support parties in reaching mutually acceptable agreements.

Fellowships

JAMS FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM

• Individuals who possess a diverse perspective as a result of their adaptability, cultural fluency, resilience, and life experiences
• Candidates with one of the following backgrounds: litigator with at least 10 years of experience; academic with an ADR background; or other professional with industry-specific experience
• ADR practitioners motivated to start or build their dispute resolution practice
• Note: Applicants whose company or law firm has a pending arbitration or court reference matter with JAMS are not eligible

• Cover letter detailing your interest, experience, and achievements in the ADR field
• Current resume or CV
• Two recommendation letters from persons knowledgeable about your interest in and experience with dispute resolution
• Personal statement (no more than two pages) describing your motivation for pursuing a career in ADR, highlighting key experiences that have shaped your journey — including academic achievements, community impact, professional experiences, and challenges overcome — as well as the contributions you hope to make to the field

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Mentorships

Montana Mediation Association Mentorship Program

Organization Name: Montana Mediation Association (MTMA) 

Location: Remote

Description: MTMA is launching a pilot one-one-one mentoring program! If you're looking to strengthen your skills and grow in the field of mediation, participation in a mentorship program provides:

• Personalized guidance – Learn directly from experienced Certified Mediators who can help you navigate real-world challenges.
• Practice development support – Receive tailored advice on building your practice, handling cases, and achieving your professional goals.
• Expanded professional network – Connect with Montana's mediation leaders and peers who can offer insights and opportunities for observation and co-mediation.
• Increased confidence – Gain reassurance and encouragement as you refine your mediation approach and decision-making skills.

Cost: Upon acceptance and matching, mentees will be charged a fee of $100 (15% discount for MTMA members) to participate in the program. If the fee is a concern, please reach out to us. We're happy to discuss options.

How To Apply: Google Form application link.

EDNY MEDIATION MENTORSHIP PROGRAM

How To Apply: Those who are interested must complete the application, provide the agenda(s) from mediation trainings completed, and submit one letter of reference from a person who has direct knowledge of the applicant’s interest in and experience with mediation, and one letter of reference from a person who has direct knowledge of the applicant’s legal knowledge and areas of expertise. Applicants will be assessed based on their experience with mediation, including mediation advocacy and active participation in mediation and dispute resolution organizations and associations.(Not opened yet for 2026)

Website: https://www.nyed.uscourts.gov/adr-programs

Cost: N/A

NYSBA DISPUTE RESOLUTION SECTION DIVERSITY MENTORSHIP PROGRAM

Eligibility: 

1. Be a member of a diverse group;
2. Licensed attorney;
3. Experience or Demonstrated Interest in Alternative Dispute Resolution: court annexed programs such as SDNY mediation, Attorney Client Fee program, or with a community mediation program such as Peace Horizons;
4. Membership in NYSBA

INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OF MEDIATORS (IAM) MEDIATOR MENTORSHIP PROGRAM

NEUTRAL EVALUATION

Neutral evaluators provide an impartial assessment of each party’s case, offering insight into likely outcomes if the matter proceeded to court. Their evaluations help parties better understand strengths, weaknesses, and potential settlement options.

There are no job postings available at the moment. Please check back soon for new opportunities.