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Communicative Disorders Assistant Jobs in Illinois

Speech Lang Path Asst

Hoffman Estates, IL ยท On-site

$58K - $63K/yr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Studies, or a related field. * Completion of an approved SLPA training program is ...

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Communicative Disorders Assistant information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$27

$59

How much do communicative disorders assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for communicative disorders assistant in Illinois is $27.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.40 and $29.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a communicative disorders assistant?

A Communicative Disorders Assistant (CDA) is a trained professional who works under the supervision of speech-language pathologists or audiologists to help assess, treat, and support individuals with communication, speech, language, and hearing disorders. CDAs assist in implementing therapy programs, preparing materials, and documenting client progress. While they play a vital supportive role, they do not diagnose disorders or develop treatment plans independently. Their work helps increase the efficiency and reach of communication and hearing services in various settings such as schools, clinics, and hospitals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a communicative disorders assistant, and why are they important?

To excel as a Communicative Disorders Assistant, you need a diploma or degree in communicative disorders or a related field, along with a solid understanding of speech, language, and communication development. Familiarity with assessment tools, therapy materials, and documentation software is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and effective teamwork are crucial for supporting clients and collaborating with speech-language pathologists. These abilities ensure that clients receive effective, individualized care and support, enhancing their communication abilities and overall quality of life.

What challenges do communicative disorders assistants face when supporting clients with diverse communication needs?

Communicative Disorders Assistants (CDAs) often work with clients from a wide range of backgrounds and with various types of communication challenges, such as speech, language, or hearing disorders. One common challenge is adapting therapy materials and techniques to suit each individual's unique needs and progress. CDAs must also maintain clear communication with supervising Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) to ensure consistency in treatment plans. Additionally, managing a busy caseload while documenting client progress accurately can be demanding, but strong organizational and interpersonal skills help CDAs succeed in this role.

What is the difference between Communicative Disorders Assistant vs Speech-Language Pathology Assistant?

AspectCommunicative Disorders AssistantSpeech-Language Pathology Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires a certificate or associate degree, sometimes certificationRequires an associate degree and certification or licensure in some states
Work EnvironmentSchools, clinics, hospitals under supervisionClinics, hospitals, schools under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in educational and healthcare settings for supporting speech-language pathologistsCommonly employed in healthcare and educational settings assisting speech-language pathologists

Both roles support speech-language pathologists and work in similar environments, often under supervision. The main difference lies in certification requirements and job titles used across states and employers. The Speech-Language Pathology Assistant typically has more formal certification and a broader scope of practice compared to the Communicative Disorders Assistant.

What can I do with a communicative disorders assistant degree?

A Communicative Disorders Assistant (CDA) degree prepares individuals to support speech-language pathologists by implementing therapy plans, conducting assessments, and assisting with patient care in clinical or educational settings. CDA professionals typically work under supervision, using communication and organizational skills, and may need certification or licensure depending on the region. This role often involves working with children or adults with speech, language, or communication disorders.

What do communicative disorders assistants do?

Communicative disorders assistants support speech-language pathologists by implementing therapy activities, monitoring patient progress, and preparing materials. They work in clinical or educational settings, often requiring knowledge of communication disorders and basic therapy techniques. Their role helps facilitate effective communication development for clients with speech or language challenges.

What are the most commonly searched types of Communicative Disorders jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Communicative Disorders jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Communicative Disorders Assistant jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Communicative Disorders Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Communicative Disorders Assistant job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,726 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Faculty - Asst./Assoc. Professor - Communication Sciences & Disorders (Tenure Track)

Saint Xavier University

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$70K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Salary: $70,000.00 - $83,000.00 Annually
Location : 3700 W. 103rd Street, Chicago, IL
Job Type: Full-Time Faculty
Job Number: 01146
Department: SONHS - Communication Sciences & Disorders
Opening Date: 07/22/2025
Summary
The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders invites applications for the Spring or Fall of '26. We're seeking a full-time, tenure-track, 9-month faculty position at the level of Assistant/Associate Professor. We seek applicants who wish to join a community of dedicated faculty and contribute to excellent academic and clinical teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels, scholarship, student advising, student research supervision, and department, university, and community service.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Expertise in Communication Sciences and Disorders.
  • Contribute to excellent academic and clinical teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels, scholarship, student advising, student research supervision, and department, university, and community service.
  • Refine curriculum.
  • Engage potential students.
  • Engage in other faculty tasks associated with the program.

Qualifications
  • A doctoral degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders is preferred. ABD near completion or a closely related discipline would be considered.
  • Candidate must possess CCC-SLP, eligibility for Illinois state licensure, record of scholarly activity or promise of research productivity, and experience in clinical service delivery.
  • While all areas of expertise will be considered, ability to teach in the following areas is desired: motor speech, acquired language disorders, and cognitive communication disorders
  • Demonstrate scholarship potential and an interest in engaging students in research or translating research into practice.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Enthusiasm toward serving a diverse student population.
  • Support for the Mission of Saint Xavier University and the Mercy Tradition's value of service to others ().
  • Permission to work in the United States.
Work Environment:
Classroom, Ludden Speech and Language Clinic, off campus clinical practicum sites, and online instruction.
Physical Demands:
Interaction with students in classroom setting, clinical supervision at practicum sites(both on & off campus), and online instruction (via Canvas Learning Management System). Travel and interaction with students at internship sites in Chicago area. Interactions with students, faculty, staff, and other constituents across the University in person, via phone call, email, and distance technologies.
Additional Expectations
We inspire success by working together to provide meaningful, personalized service in a spirit of excellence. SXU seeks candidates that deliver value-added services in a responsive, collaborative, effective, and respectful manner.
The University is committed to diversity and encourages applications from individuals with a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. Saint Xavier University affirms its position as a Catholic institution, inspired by the heritage of the Sisters of Mercy, and asserts its rights to employ persons who subscribe to the mission, vision and core values of the University.
Saint Xavier University is an Equal Opportunity Employer that makes all decisions regarding recruitment, hiring, promotions and all other terms and conditions of employment without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, creed, sex, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status or other factors protected by law. Hiring decisions will be based on the bona fide occupational qualifications of each applicant.
Saint Xavier University is committed to providing employees with a comprehensive benefits package that meets the needs of both the individual and his/her family. Many of the benefits are flexible and offer choices to meet various benefit needs. SXU employment benefits can be found