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Entry Level Speech Pathologist Jobs in California

Lucia Mar USD

Speech, Language Pathologist

Arroyo Grande, CA · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

Annual entry level salary placement from $60,544 to $100,773 for a full time position; Salary based ... Speech/Language Pathologist SALARY RANGE: Placement on the District Certificated Salary Schedule is ...

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All JobsSpeech Pathologist JobsEntry Level Speech Pathologist JobsEntry Level Speech Pathologist Jobs in California

Entry Level Speech Pathologist information

See California salary details

$740

$1.8K

$2.5K

How much do entry level speech pathologist jobs pay per week?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level speech pathologist in California is $1,842.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,632.69 and $2,059.62 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level speech pathologist do?

An entry level speech pathologist, also known as a speech-language pathologist (SLP), helps assess, diagnose, and treat individuals with speech, language, voice, and communication disorders. They typically work under the supervision of experienced SLPs and may work with children or adults in schools, hospitals, or clinics. Their responsibilities include conducting screenings, assisting with developing treatment plans, and providing direct therapy to clients. Entry level SLPs also collaborate with families, caregivers, and other professionals to support patient progress.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level speech pathologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Speech Pathologist, you need a master's degree in speech-language pathology and state licensure, as well as a solid understanding of communication and swallowing disorders. Familiarity with assessment tools, electronic medical records (EMRs), and standardized therapy protocols is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and adaptability help you build rapport with clients and collaborate effectively with families and multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering personalized, evidence-based interventions that improve clients’ communication abilities and quality of life.

What are some common challenges entry-level speech pathologists face during their first year on the job?

Entry-level speech pathologists often encounter challenges such as managing diverse caseloads, adapting therapy plans for individual client needs, and navigating the documentation requirements unique to their workplace. Balancing direct therapy time with paperwork and collaborating effectively with teachers, parents, and other healthcare professionals can also be demanding. However, most employers provide mentorship and ongoing training to help new speech pathologists transition smoothly and build confidence in their clinical skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Speech Pathologist vs Speech Therapist?

AspectEntry Level Speech PathologistSpeech Therapist
CredentialsMaster's degree in Speech-Language Pathology, state licensureTypically the same; often used interchangeably
Work EnvironmentSchools, clinics, hospitals, private practicesSchools, healthcare facilities, private settings
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and healthcare sectorsHealthcare and educational sectors
Search & Comparison IntentCommonly compared for entry-level rolesOften used interchangeably with Speech Pathologist

Both roles generally require similar credentials and work in comparable environments. The term "Speech Therapist" is often used interchangeably with "Speech Pathologist," especially at the entry level. Understanding these similarities helps job seekers identify relevant opportunities in healthcare and educational settings.

How much do entry level speech pathologists make starting out?

Entry-level speech pathologists typically earn between $50,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on location, setting, and level of education. Starting salaries may be higher in urban areas or specialized environments, and obtaining certification can influence earning potential.

Is it hard to get a job as an entry level speech pathologist?

Securing an entry-level speech pathologist position can be competitive, but job availability is generally steady due to demand for speech therapy services. Candidates with a master's degree, certification, and clinical experience through internships or practicums tend to have better prospects, and some regions may have more opportunities than others.

What are the most commonly searched types of Speech Pathologist jobs in California?

The most popular types of Speech Pathologist jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Speech Pathologist jobs in California?

For Entry Level Speech Pathologist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Speech Pathologist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Speech Pathologist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Speech Pathologist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Speech Pathologist job openings:

Entry Level Speech Pathologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Speech Pathologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,813 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Speech, Language Pathologist

Lucia Mar USD

Arroyo Grande, CA • On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Teacher/Speech Language Pathologist
Date Posted:
12/19/2025
Location:
Student Services
Date Available:
08/10/2026
NOTICE OF VACANCY
Human Resources
602 Orchard Street, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
(805) 474-3000, ext. 1194
December 19, 2025
CERTIFICATED NOTICE OF VACANCIES
SPEECH, LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR
We are now accepting applications for the following certificated position(s) beginning in the 2026-2027 school year.
POSITION(S): Speech, Language Pathologist - Student Services
REQUIREMENTS:
  • Valid California Speech, Language, Hearing Credential
  • Bachelor's Degree or higher in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited college or university
  • Valid California driver's license
  • For additional requirements, please see the attached job description
WORK DAYS: up to 184 days, 1.0 FTE
SALARY: Annual entry level salary placement from $60,544 to $100,773 for a full time position;
Salary based prorated based on start date, FTE, and on prior experience and semester units above Bachelor's degree. Additional $8,000 Annual Stipend.
2024-2025 Certificated Salary Schedule
HEALTH BENEFITS: 2025-2026 Certificated Health Benefits Plans and Rates (2026-2027 plans and rates will be available Spring 2026)
PROCEDURE FOR APPLICATIONS:
  • All interested outside applicants may complete an online application via Frontline and include a letter of interest, resume, three (3) current, signed letters of recommendation, and verification of valid credentials/certifications. https://www.applitrack.com/LMUSD/onlineapp/
  • All interested current temporary and probationary-zero LMUSD contracted employees may apply as an internal candidate via Frontline
  • All permanent certificated contracted employees may submit a Transfer Request Form 2026-2027

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Open Until Filled
The provisions of this Notice of Vacancy do not constitute a contract expressed or implied and any of the provisions contained herein may be modified or revoked without notice.
The Lucia Mar Unified School District prohibits discrimination, intimidation, harassment (including sexual harassment) or bullying based on a person's actual or perceived ancestry, color, disability, race or ethnicity, religion, gender, gender expression, gender identity, immigration status, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics. For questions or complaints, contact Equity Compliance Officer and Title IX Coordinator: Jennifer Handy, Assistant Superintendent of HR, 602 Orchard Ave. Arroyo Grande, 805-474-3000 ext. 1190, jennifer.handy@lmusd.org or the 504 Coordinator: Linda Pierce, Director of Student Services, 227 Bridge St., Arroyo Grande, 805-474-3000 ext. 1189, linda.pierce@lmusd.org
LUCIA MAR UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT CERTIFICATED
HUMAN RESOURCES JOB DESCRIPTION
DATE: February 21, 2014
POSITION: Speech/Language Pathologist
SALARY RANGE: Placement on the District Certificated Salary Schedule is based upon years of full-time credentialed teaching experience and units of college coursework beyond a Bachelor's Degree.
SCHEDULE: Work 184 days per school year on the days indicated in the instructional and staff development calendars.
SUPERVISOR: Under the direct supervision of the site Principal(s) and the general supervision of the Director of Student Services and/or Designee
JOB SUMMARY: Identifies, assesses, and provides therapy services to students with various disabilities who exhibit identified speech and language deficits according to the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) and perform related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  1. Required:
  1. Bachelor's Degree or higher in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited college or university
  2. Current/valid California Clinical or Rehabilitative Services Credential or Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential
  3. Valid licenses issued by the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Board
  4. Current/valid California Driver's License.
  5. Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  1. Desirable:
  1. Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA)
  2. Two or more years' experience with students with disabilities.
  3. Bilingual (English/Spanish)
REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  1. Screen, identify, assess and develop recommendations for students with speech and language deficits.
  2. Collaborate and participate in Individual Education Plan (IEP) meetings, Student Study Team meetings, parent conferences, and team meetings in order to help problem solve issues that may interfere with student learning.
  3. Develop, coordinate, and implement individual speech-language therapy intervention plans that support the IEP goals and objectives in collaboration with the IEP team.
  4. Develop an intervention plan that may consist of a continuum of services including integrated classroom activities, group and individual interventions, and home programs as appropriate in meeting the student's needs in the least restrictive environment.
  5. Collaborate continually with the IEP team to develop and modify instructional and intervention strategies and monitor progress.
  6. Provide stimulation of speech-language skills using research-based techniques (in both group and individual settings) in the areas of phonology, syntax, morphology, semantics, and pragmatics.
  7. Research new information regarding intervention/treatment techniques, methods, assessment materials, available resources.
  8. Recommend and assist in the procurement of assistive technology.
  9. Provide consultation to classroom teachers, educational staff, administrators and parents.
  10. Maintain records as required by law, Board policy, and administrative regulations.
  11. Provide formal and informal training to educational staff and families in relevant areas focusing on speech-language therapy principles as they relate to the development and education of students with special needs.
  12. Consult and collaborate with community agencies and general resources regarding speech and language therapy services for students.
  13. Maintain an in-depth knowledge of the laws and policies governing Special Education and Early Intervention in California that pertain to the delivery of speech-language therapy services.
  14. Participate in District programs, including MAA and LEA billing.
  15. Attend and participate in faculty and staff meetings as required.
  16. Other related duties as assigned by the Supervisor or designee.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
PHYSICAL: Employee in this position must have the ability to:
  1. Stand and sit for extended periods of time.
  2. See and read printed matter with or without vision aids.
3. Hear and understand speech at normal levels.
4. Speak English so that others may understand at normal levels.
5. Stand, walk, stoop, twist, bend over, grasp, reach overhead, push, pull, and move, lift and/or carry 0 to 20 pounds to waist height.
MENTAL:
  1. Able to concentrate on a single task for up to two (2) hours at a time.
  2. Able to learn quickly and adapt to a variety of machinery, instructions, and task methods.
  3. Able to meet deadlines in terms of work assignment schedules.
SOCIAL:
  1. Interact daily in person with other members of the school staff and possess comfortable interpersonal skills and cooperative attitudes.
  2. Because of the time urgent nature of duties and because work product of position is interdependent with that of other staff, consistent attendance is required.
  3. Convey an understanding, patient attitude toward students, parents, staff and community.
  4. Maintain the privacy of confidential information.

This list of essential functions and of physical retirements is not exhaustive and may be supplemented as necessary in accordance with the requirements of the job.
NOTE: The Candidate selected for this position will be required to present prior to the first date of employment: 1) A social security card; 2) proof of tuberculin test prior to first day of hire; and 3) pass fingerprint screening.
ALL MATERIALS ARCHIVED FOR THIS POSITION ARE THE PROPERTY OF THE LUCIA MAR UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT AND MAY BE REVIEWED BY BUT CANNOT BE RETURNED TO THE APPLICANT.
The Lucia Mar Unified School District Board of Education prohibits discrimination of job applicants on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religious creed, age, marital status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, mental condition, veteran status, gender, and the actual or perceived sexual orientation.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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