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

Fullerton, United States
Full-time
Entry-level
Posted: July 21, 2025
On-site
USD 58-70 per hour

Benefits

Comprehensive 401(k) retirement plan providing long-term financial security and employer investment in career longevity
Full health insurance coverage ensuring medical protection and reducing out-of-pocket healthcare expenses
Employee referral program offering financial incentives for successful candidate recommendations and network expansion
Complete relocation assistance package reducing financial barriers for geographic mobility and career advancement

Key Responsibilities

Design and implement individualized speech therapy interventions that directly impact student academic success and social integration
Conduct comprehensive speech and language assessments to identify communication barriers affecting educational outcomes
Collaborate with multidisciplinary educational teams to develop strategic intervention plans that support overall student development
Utilize American Sign Language expertise to serve diverse student populations and expand accessibility of communication services
Document therapeutic progress and maintain compliance with educational regulations while ensuring optimal student outcomes
Mentor and guide students in developing communication confidence that translates to improved classroom participation and social interactions

Requirements

Education

A Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology

Experience

Experience working with children and adolescents in a school setting a plus - New Grads encouraged to Apply!

Required Skills

Fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) Required Communication skills Assessment abilities Therapeutic intervention techniques

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
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The special education sector is experiencing unprecedented growth driven by increased awareness of communication disorders and federal mandates requiring comprehensive support services in educational settings. Schools are actively expanding their therapy teams to meet IDEA compliance requirements and address the rising identification of autism spectrum disorders and language processing challenges. American Sign Language proficiency has become increasingly valuable in educational settings as schools embrace inclusive practices and serve growing populations of deaf and hard-of-hearing students. This specialized skill combination significantly enhances marketability and opens doors to specialized program leadership opportunities. Post-pandemic educational recovery has created urgent demand for speech-language pathologists as schools address communication delays and social skill gaps that emerged during remote learning periods. Federal funding initiatives are specifically targeting therapeutic support services, creating sustained job security in this sector.

Salary Evaluation

The offered hourly rate of $58-70 represents competitive compensation for school-based SLP positions in Southern California, translating to approximately $116,000-140,000 annually for full-time work. This range aligns with California's higher cost of living while remaining attractive compared to clinical settings, particularly given the comprehensive benefits package and professional development opportunities.

Role Significance

School-based SLPs typically collaborate within multidisciplinary teams of 8-12 professionals including special education teachers, occupational therapists, psychologists, and administrators. Direct supervision of paraprofessionals and student interns may be included as experience develops.
This position represents a foundational professional role with significant autonomous responsibility for student caseloads and therapeutic outcomes. While entry-level friendly, the role carries substantial independent decision-making authority regarding assessment, treatment planning, and progress monitoring that directly impacts educational trajectories.

Key Projects

Development and implementation of school-wide communication screening programs that identify at-risk students before academic challenges compound Creation of inclusive classroom strategies that integrate ASL and spoken language to serve diverse communication needs within mainstream educational environments Leadership of transition planning initiatives that prepare students with communication disorders for post-secondary education or employment opportunities

Success Factors

Developing strong collaborative relationships with educational teams while maintaining professional autonomy in clinical decision-making ensures optimal student outcomes and sustainable job satisfaction Building expertise in both individual therapeutic techniques and systemic program development positions professionals for leadership advancement and specialized program oversight Maintaining current knowledge of assistive technology and evidence-based practices through continuing education creates competitive advantages and improves therapeutic effectiveness Cultivating cultural competence and multilingual communication skills, particularly ASL fluency, enables service to diverse populations and opens specialized career pathways

Market Demand

Exceptionally high demand exists for qualified SLPs in educational settings, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 25% growth through 2032. The combination of ASL fluency and willingness to work in schools creates premium positioning in a candidate-driven market.

Important Skills

Critical Skills

American Sign Language fluency serves as the primary differentiator for this role and enables service to deaf and hard-of-hearing student populations, creating specialized expertise that commands premium compensation and advancement opportunities Pediatric assessment and intervention skills form the clinical foundation necessary for accurate identification of communication disorders and development of effective treatment plans that support educational success Collaborative communication abilities are essential for effective integration within multidisciplinary educational teams and ensure therapeutic goals align with overall educational objectives

Beneficial Skills

Assistive technology proficiency increasingly distinguishes exceptional practitioners as schools invest in digital communication tools and therapy platforms Bilingual communication skills beyond ASL, particularly Spanish in California markets, expand service capabilities and career opportunities in diverse educational settings Program development and administrative skills position clinicians for leadership roles and specialized program oversight as districts expand therapeutic services

Unique Aspects

The mandatory ASL fluency requirement distinguishes this position from typical school-based SLP roles and indicates service to specialized populations with unique communication needs, creating opportunities for expertise development in deaf and hard-of-hearing education
The combination of competitive hourly compensation with comprehensive benefits including health and wellness stipends addresses common concerns about school-based practice compensation compared to medical settings
Professional development stipends and ASHA-approved continuing education resources demonstrate organizational commitment to clinical excellence and career advancement
The spread pay plan addressing year-round income consistency removes a significant barrier that often deters therapists from school-based positions

Career Growth

Advancement to senior clinical roles typically occurs within 3-5 years, with leadership positions accessible within 5-7 years given the high demand and limited supply of experienced professionals. The ASL specialization accelerates promotion opportunities in districts serving deaf and hard-of-hearing populations.

Potential Next Roles

Lead Speech-Language Pathologist overseeing district-wide programs and supervising junior therapists within 3-5 years of experience Special Education Coordinator combining therapeutic expertise with administrative responsibilities for comprehensive program management Clinical Supervisor for university programs or private practice settings, leveraging school-based experience for training and mentorship roles Assistive Technology Specialist focusing on communication devices and digital intervention platforms

Company Overview

The Stepping Stones Group

The Stepping Stones Group operates as a comprehensive educational staffing organization specializing in therapeutic and special education services across multiple states. The company has established itself as a reliable partner for school districts seeking qualified professionals in high-demand specialties, with particular strength in speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, and special education placement.

As a mid-tier educational staffing firm, the company competes effectively by offering comprehensive support packages that address common barriers to school-based practice, including professional development, administrative support, and geographic flexibility. Their focus on therapeutic services positions them well in a specialized market with limited competition.
The California market represents a strategic growth area for the company, with Fullerton's location in Orange County providing access to multiple school districts facing severe therapist shortages. This positioning offers professionals exposure to diverse student populations and varied educational approaches.
The company culture emphasizes professional autonomy balanced with comprehensive support systems, appealing to clinicians who want independence in their practice while benefiting from organizational resources and career development opportunities. The travel position options and relocation assistance indicate a culture that values flexibility and professional growth.
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