Home Jobs Speech Language Pathologist (SLP)
Back to Jobs

Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) - Job Opportunity at The Stepping Stones Group

Centralia, US
Full-time
Mid-level
Posted: May 28, 2025
On-site
USD 55-60 per hour

Benefits

Comprehensive relocation assistance package enabling geographic mobility and career flexibility
Employee referral program with financial incentives for successful placements
401(k) retirement savings plan with potential employer matching for long-term financial security
Health insurance coverage providing medical protection and reducing out-of-pocket healthcare costs
Health and wellness stipends supporting personal well-being initiatives
Spread pay plan ensuring consistent year-round income stability
Professional development stipends demonstrating company investment in employee growth
Access to ASHA-approved webinars and free continuing education units for career advancement
Travel position opportunities for professional and personal exploration

Key Responsibilities

Drive measurable improvements in student communication outcomes through evidence-based speech-language pathology interventions
Build student confidence and academic success by addressing communication barriers that impact educational achievement
Collaborate strategically with educational teams to integrate speech therapy goals with broader academic objectives
Develop and implement individualized treatment plans that align with school district requirements and student IEP goals
Contribute to positive school culture by supporting students' ability to participate fully in educational environments
Document and track student progress to demonstrate intervention effectiveness and inform educational planning

Requirements

Education

A Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology

Experience

Experience working with children and adolescents in a school setting a plus

Required Skills

Working with children and adolescents School-based therapy delivery IEP development and implementation Assessment and treatment planning

Certifications

Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) State license or eligibility for licensure as a Speech-Language Pathologist
Advertisement
Ad Space

Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The demand for school-based speech-language pathologists continues to grow significantly due to increased awareness of communication disorders and early intervention benefits, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 25% growth through 2031. Educational institutions are increasingly recognizing the critical role of SLPs in supporting academic achievement and social-emotional development. There is a notable shift toward integrated service delivery models where SLPs work more collaboratively within classroom settings rather than traditional pull-out therapy, requiring professionals to adapt their skills to curriculum-based intervention approaches. Technology integration in speech therapy is accelerating, with telepractice capabilities and digital assessment tools becoming standard expectations, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on service delivery models.

Salary Evaluation

The hourly rate of $55-60 represents competitive compensation for school-based SLP positions in Washington state, translating to approximately $114,400-$124,800 annually based on a typical school year schedule. This rate aligns well with regional market standards and reflects the current shortage of qualified SLPs in educational settings.

Role Significance

Typically works within a multidisciplinary team of 8-12 professionals including special education teachers, occupational therapists, school psychologists, and administrators, while maintaining a direct caseload of 40-60 students across multiple schools.
This position represents a mid-level professional role requiring independent clinical decision-making and case management responsibilities, with expectations for mentoring newer staff and contributing to program development initiatives within the school district.

Key Projects

Development and implementation of school-wide communication screening programs to identify at-risk students Creation of curriculum-integrated therapy programs that support both communication goals and academic standards Leadership in assistive technology assessments and implementation for students with complex communication needs Collaboration on transition planning for students moving between educational levels or into post-secondary settings

Success Factors

Strong clinical assessment and intervention skills combined with the ability to adapt evidence-based practices to educational environments and diverse student populations Excellent collaborative communication skills for working effectively with teachers, administrators, parents, and other related service providers in achieving student outcomes Flexibility and creativity in service delivery approaches, including the ability to provide both direct and consultative services based on student needs and school schedules Cultural competency and sensitivity when working with diverse student populations and families from various socioeconomic and linguistic backgrounds Strong documentation and data collection skills for IEP compliance, progress monitoring, and demonstrating intervention effectiveness to stakeholders

Market Demand

High demand driven by chronic shortages of qualified SLPs in school districts nationwide, particularly in rural and underserved areas, creating excellent job security and negotiating power for certified professionals.

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Clinical assessment and intervention skills are fundamental as SLPs must independently evaluate student needs, develop appropriate treatment plans, and modify interventions based on progress data while ensuring compliance with educational regulations and IEP requirements Collaboration and consultation abilities are essential since school-based SLPs must work effectively with diverse teams of educators, administrators, and families to integrate communication goals with academic objectives and ensure carryover of skills across environments

Beneficial Skills

Technology proficiency in telepractice platforms, digital assessment tools, and assistive technology devices is increasingly valuable as schools adopt hybrid service delivery models and incorporate more technology-based interventions into therapy programs Bilingual or multicultural competencies are highly advantageous given the diverse student populations in many school districts and the need to provide culturally responsive assessment and intervention services

Unique Aspects

The company's focus on school-based positions provides specialized expertise in educational regulations, IEP processes, and curriculum integration that may not be available through general healthcare staffing agencies
Comprehensive relocation assistance and travel opportunities appeal to professionals seeking geographic flexibility and diverse clinical experiences across different school districts and communities
The spread pay plan addresses a common concern for school-based SLPs by providing income stability during summer months when traditional school contracts pause
Strong emphasis on continuing education and professional development through ASHA-approved resources demonstrates commitment to maintaining clinical excellence and supporting career advancement

Career Growth

Progression to leadership roles typically occurs within 5-7 years with demonstrated clinical excellence and additional professional development, while transition to administrative positions may require 7-10 years plus additional certification or advanced degrees.

Potential Next Roles

Lead Speech-Language Pathologist or Department Coordinator roles overseeing SLP services across multiple schools Special Education Administrator positions requiring advanced degrees and administrative certification Clinical Supervisor roles in healthcare settings or private practice opportunities University faculty positions in speech-language pathology programs, typically requiring doctoral preparation

Company Overview

The Stepping Stones Group

The Stepping Stones Group operates as a specialized staffing and therapy services company focused on placing allied health professionals in educational settings across multiple states. The company has built a reputation for supporting both clients and employees through comprehensive benefit packages and professional development opportunities.

Positioned as a mid-to-large regional player in the educational therapy staffing market, competing with both national corporations and local agencies by emphasizing employee support and retention strategies.
Maintains a strong presence in the Pacific Northwest region with particular focus on Washington state school districts, leveraging regional relationships and understanding of state-specific licensing and educational requirements.
Emphasizes employee support and professional growth through mentorship programs, continuing education opportunities, and comprehensive benefits packages designed to address the unique challenges of school-based practice.
Advertisement
Ad Space
Apply Now

Data Sources & Analysis Information

Job Listings Data

The job listings displayed on this platform are sourced through BrightData's comprehensive API, ensuring up-to-date and accurate job market information.

Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Our advanced AI system analyzes each job listing to provide valuable insights including:

  • Industry trends and market dynamics
  • Salary estimates and market demand analysis
  • Role significance and career growth potential
  • Critical success factors and key skills
  • Unique aspects of each position

This integration of reliable job data with AI-powered analysis helps provide you with comprehensive insights for making informed career decisions.