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Entry Level Speech Pathologist Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Speech Pathologist information

See Oregon salary details

$792

$2K

$2.6K

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level speech pathologist in Oregon is $1,973.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,748.08 and $2,205.77 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 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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Speech Pathologist jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Speech Pathologist jobs in Oregon are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Speech Pathologist jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Speech Pathologist jobs in Oregon are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Speech Pathologist job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,645 per year, or $49.3 per hour.

Speech Language Pathologist

Curry Health Network

Brookings, OR • On-site

$51.70 - $78.20/hr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago


Curry Health Network rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Speech Language Pathologist

Full-time & Per Diem | On-site | Brookings, OR

Compensation Range: $51.70 - $78.20

Compensation is based on experience, with a range reflecting entry-level candidates through those with 15+ years of experience. Eligible positions may also qualify for additional compensation with applicable shift, weekend, certification, or other differentials.

Additional Compensation Differential Opportunities:

  • Licensed Positions: NOC Shift (7:00 PM–7:00 AM) +$3.50/hour. | Weekend Shift (12:00 AM Saturday–11:59 PM Sunday) +$3.00/hour.
  • Non-Licensed Positions: NOC Shift (7:00 PM–7:00 AM) +$3.00/hour. | Weekend Shift (12:00 AM Saturday–11:59 PM Sunday) +$2.00/hour.
Job Summary

Under the general direction of the Therapy department leader, the Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) tests and evaluates patients who have communication, speech, language, and swallowing disorders resulting from medical conditions, such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, neurological diseases, or developmental delays. The SLP's role involves assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of these disorders to improve patients' communication abilities and swallowing function.

Essential Functions

Diagnoses the nature and extent of impairment and records and analyzes speech, language, and swallowing irregularities with written and oral tests, as well as other specialized tools. Develop an individualized plan of care tailored to each patient's needs.

Selects augmentative or alternative communication methods, including automated devices and sign language, and teaches their use to individuals with little or no speech capability. Teaches those with little or no speech capability how to make sounds, improve their voices, or increase their language skills to communicate more effectively. Treats patients who have suffered loss of speech to help them to recover reliable communication skills so they may fulfill their educational, vocational, and social roles.

Diagnoses and treats patients with cognitive communication impairments, such as attention, memory, and problem-solving disorders and oral motor problems resulting in eating and swallowing difficulties. Assess and treat swallowing difficulties arising from a variety of causes, e.g. congenital problems (such as cleft palate) or acquired disorders after a stroke or injury. Assesses and treats voice disorders including those related top vocal chord dysfunction

Other duties as requested to support the overall effectiveness of the department and organizational performance in accordance with Curry Health Network's Mission, Vision, and Shared Values.

Shared Values

Service: We serve with compassion and understanding.

Teamwork: We are one team – each one of us makes a difference.

Curiosity: We promote learning.

Integrity: We live by honesty, trust, and doing the right thing by our organizational values.

Minimum Job Requirements

Education & Experience

  • Current unencumbered licensure as a Speech Language Pathologist in the state of Oregon is required.
  • BLS certification is required.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Have knowledge both of state practice act guidelines as well as Medicare guidelines and follow the guidelines in the delivery of patient care.
  • Must be able to work effectively as part of a team.
  • Proficient computer skill including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) is required.
  • Prior experience with proper electronic medical record documentation is required.
  • The necessary knowledge and skills to care for the physical and developmental needs of the population age groups that will be receiving services.
  • Ability to remain calm in emergency or crisis situations.
  • Strong interpersonal skills with an ability to work with people in close situations, using excellent verbal communication and listening skills.
  • Strong organizational and prioritization ability.
  • Multitasking and time management is critical to performance of the role.
Physical Requirements

Physical Demands

On-the-job time is spent in the following physical activities:

Up to 1/3 of the time: sit; taste or smell

From 1/3 to 1/2 of the time: use hands to finger, handle or feel; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear

Up 2/3 of the time and more: stand; walk; push/pull; reach with hands and arms

This job requires that weight be lifted, or force be exerted as follows:

None of the time: up to or more than 100 pounds

From 1/3 to 1/2 of the time: up to 50 pounds

This job has special vision requirements as follows:

Close; distance; color; peripheral; depth perception; and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

This job requires exposure to the following environmental conditions:

None of the time: extreme heat/cold; wet/humid; fumes/airborne particles; work with explosives; outdoor weather; Toxic or caustic chemicals; risk of electrical shock; vibration

Up to 1/3 of the time: Working near moving mechanical parts

The typical noise level for the work environment is: very quiet to moderate noise.

Hearing requirements: ability to hear alarms on equipment, patient call and instructions.

This job requires the following repetitive motion actions:

From 3 – 4 hours per day: grasping firm/heavy & fine dexterity

From 5 – 6 hours per day: grasping: simple/light; repetitive use of hands

This is designated as a hard to fill position. Please refer to policy HR-A37

Qualifications Licenses & Certifications Required

FIT Test

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.


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