Speech Language Pathologist - Job Opportunity at Kingston Health Sciences Centre

Ontario, Canada
Part-time
Mid-level
Posted: June 5, 2025
On-site
CAD 44.57-57.92 per hour

Benefits

Comprehensive vision care coverage providing essential eye health support and corrective lens benefits
Full dental care coverage including preventive, basic, and major dental procedures
Employee assistance program offering confidential counseling and support services for personal and work-related challenges
Defined benefit company pension plan providing long-term financial security and retirement income
Extended health care coverage beyond basic provincial health insurance including prescription drugs and paramedical services
Wellness program promoting employee health through fitness memberships, health screenings, and wellness initiatives

Key Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive clinical assessments using standardized and non-standardized evaluation tools to diagnose communication and swallowing disorders in pediatric populations
Develop and implement evidence-based individual and group treatment programs for children with complex developmental disabilities and communication needs
Lead multidisciplinary care planning and collaborate with healthcare teams to ensure integrated service delivery across multiple care settings
Provide clinical supervision and mentorship to therapy assistants and speech-language pathology students in educational placements
Deliver specialized augmentative and alternative communication services including assistive technology assessment and prescription
Manage complex caseloads across multiple service delivery models including center-based, school-based, and community-based interventions
Maintain comprehensive clinical documentation and reporting systems in compliance with professional college standards and healthcare regulations
Participate in quality improvement initiatives and contribute to departmental policy development and program enhancement

Requirements

Education

Master's Degree in Speech Language Pathology (or equivalent)

Experience

2 years recent experience working in a Children's Treatment Centre; if not possible, consideration will be given to applicants with comparable experience in a pediatric setting

Required Skills

Experience in identification, assessment and management of children with a wide range of physical and developmental disabilities Experience working with children/youth with complex special needs and their families Experience working in community settings Excellent communication skills and proven ability to work as part of a team with professionals, support staff and other community agencies Proficiency in speaking and comprehending both English and French is an asset

Certifications

Current registration and good standing with the CASLPO Current enhanced security clearance (criminal reference check) for vulnerable populations administered by the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) Current Basic Life Saving certificate at the Health Care Provider Level Valid driver's license and automobile insurance as per KHSC policy
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

Healthcare systems across Canada are experiencing significant workforce shortages in allied health professions, particularly in pediatric speech-language pathology, creating a highly competitive job market for qualified practitioners. This shortage is driving increased compensation packages and flexible work arrangements as healthcare organizations compete for talent. The integration of technology in speech-language pathology practice is rapidly expanding, with augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices becoming increasingly sophisticated and requiring specialized training. Practitioners with expertise in assistive technology assessment and implementation are in particularly high demand. There is a growing emphasis on community-based and school-integrated service delivery models in pediatric healthcare, moving away from traditional clinic-based approaches. This trend reflects evidence-based practices that demonstrate improved outcomes when services are delivered in natural environments where children spend their time.

Salary Evaluation

The hourly rate of CAD 44.57-57.92 translates to approximately CAD 35,000-45,000 annually for this 60% part-time position, which is competitive for the Canadian market when considering the comprehensive benefits package. Full-time equivalent would be approximately CAD 58,000-75,000 annually, aligning well with national averages for hospital-based speech-language pathologists with pediatric specialization.

Role Significance

Typically works within a multidisciplinary team of 8-12 professionals including occupational therapists, physiotherapists, social workers, and developmental pediatricians, with direct supervision of 1-2 therapy assistants and periodic supervision of 2-3 student placements annually.
This is a mid-level professional role with significant clinical autonomy and supervisory responsibilities. The position requires independent clinical decision-making, student supervision, and contribution to program development, indicating a role beyond entry-level practice but not requiring extensive senior leadership experience.

Key Projects

Implementation of augmentative and alternative communication programs for non-verbal children with complex disabilities Development of school-based service delivery protocols in collaboration with educational teams Creation of family-centered care pathways for children with feeding and swallowing disorders Design and implementation of group therapy programs for children with similar communication needs

Success Factors

Strong clinical reasoning abilities and evidence-based practice skills are essential for success in this complex pediatric environment where children present with multiple co-occurring conditions requiring individualized treatment approaches. The ability to synthesize information from multiple sources and adapt interventions based on ongoing assessment is critical. Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills are vital for building therapeutic relationships with children and families while effectively collaborating with diverse professional teams across multiple service settings. The role requires cultural sensitivity and the ability to work with families experiencing significant stress and challenges. Organizational and time management expertise is crucial for managing complex caseloads across multiple locations while maintaining detailed documentation and meeting regulatory requirements. The ability to prioritize competing demands and work efficiently in various environments is essential. Professional resilience and emotional intelligence are necessary for working with children with complex needs and their families, often in challenging circumstances. The ability to maintain professional boundaries while providing compassionate care is fundamental to long-term success in this role.

Market Demand

Very high demand driven by critical healthcare workforce shortages, increased recognition of early intervention importance, and growing prevalence of autism spectrum disorders and developmental disabilities requiring specialized communication support services.

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Advanced clinical assessment and diagnostic skills are absolutely essential for this role, as practitioners must accurately identify and differentiate between various communication disorders in children with complex medical and developmental histories. The ability to select appropriate assessment tools and interpret results within the context of multiple co-occurring conditions directly impacts treatment outcomes and family satisfaction. Multidisciplinary collaboration and communication skills are critical for success in this integrated healthcare environment where effective teamwork directly impacts patient outcomes. The ability to articulate clinical findings to diverse professional audiences and contribute meaningfully to team decision-making processes is fundamental to the role's effectiveness. Cultural competency and family-centered care skills are essential given the diverse population served and the significant impact that communication disorders have on family dynamics. Practitioners must be able to work sensitively with families from various backgrounds while respecting different cultural approaches to disability and healthcare.

Beneficial Skills

Bilingual capabilities in English and French would significantly enhance service delivery capacity in this region of Ontario where francophone families require culturally and linguistically appropriate services. This skill set would distinguish candidates and create additional career opportunities. Research and program evaluation skills would be valuable for contributing to evidence-based practice initiatives and quality improvement projects within the academic health center environment. These competencies support career advancement and professional recognition. Technology proficiency beyond basic AAC devices, including emerging digital health tools and telepractice platforms, would position practitioners for future service delivery innovations and expanded practice opportunities in rural and remote communities.

Unique Aspects

This position offers rare exposure to the full spectrum of pediatric communication disorders within an integrated healthcare system, providing opportunities to work with complex cases that require advanced clinical reasoning and multidisciplinary collaboration not typically available in smaller practice settings.
The combination of hospital-based, school-based, and community-based service delivery creates a unique professional experience that develops versatile clinical skills and broad understanding of healthcare systems integration.
The role includes specialized augmentative and alternative communication services, positioning the practitioner at the forefront of assistive technology applications in pediatric communication disorders.
Academic affiliation provides access to continuing education opportunities, research participation, and professional networking that can significantly enhance career development and clinical expertise.

Career Growth

Career progression to senior clinical roles typically occurs within 3-5 years with demonstrated clinical excellence and leadership development. Advancement to supervisory or management positions generally requires 5-7 years of experience plus additional leadership training or credentials.

Potential Next Roles

Senior Speech-Language Pathologist with team leadership responsibilities and specialized program coordination Clinical Supervisor or Manager overseeing speech-language pathology services across multiple sites Specialized Consultant in augmentative and alternative communication or pediatric feeding disorders Private practice owner focusing on pediatric communication disorders and family-centered services

Company Overview

Kingston Health Sciences Centre

Kingston Health Sciences Centre is one of Ontario's largest academic health sciences centers, formed through the integration of Hotel Dieu Hospital and Kingston General Hospital. The organization serves as a regional referral center for Southeastern Ontario and provides comprehensive healthcare services including specialized pediatric programs through the KidsInclusive division.

KHSC holds a prominent position as a leading academic health center in Ontario, with strong research partnerships and medical education programs. The organization is recognized for its innovative approaches to integrated care delivery and commitment to evidence-based practice, particularly in pediatric and specialized healthcare services.
The organization serves as the primary tertiary care provider for the Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington region, with KidsInclusive providing specialized pediatric rehabilitation services across Eastern Ontario. This regional mandate creates opportunities for professional development and exposure to complex cases requiring advanced clinical skills.
KHSC maintains a collaborative, academic-oriented culture that values evidence-based practice, continuous learning, and interdisciplinary teamwork. The organization emphasizes professional development, research participation, and innovation in service delivery, creating an environment that supports career advancement and clinical excellence.
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