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Entry Level Speech Pathologist Jobs in Riverside, CA

Entry Level Speech Pathologist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$782

$1.9K

$2.6K

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

As of May 28, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level speech pathologist in Riverside, CA is $1,947.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,725.00 and $2,176.92 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Do SLP treat Tourette's?

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) may be involved in treating speech and language issues associated with Tourette's syndrome, such as vocal tics or speech disruptions. While they do not treat the neurological aspects of Tourette's, SLPs can help manage communication challenges that may arise from the condition, often working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Certification in speech therapy and experience with neurodevelopmental disorders are beneficial for providing effective support.

Who gets paid more, SLP or OT?

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) and Occupational Therapists (OTs) are both healthcare professionals with comparable salary ranges. Generally, OTs tend to have slightly higher median salaries, but earnings can vary based on experience, location, and work setting. Both roles require specialized certifications and offer opportunities for salary growth with experience.

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 the most commonly searched types of Speech Pathologist jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Speech Pathologist jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Speech Pathologist jobs in Riverside, CA? For Entry Level Speech Pathologist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Speech Pathologist jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Speech Pathologist job openings:
Speech & Language Pathologist I

Speech & Language Pathologist I

City of Hope

Irvine, CA

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


City Of Hope rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Speech and Language Pathologist I

Join the transformative team at City of Hope, where we're changing lives and making a real difference in the fight against cancer, diabetes, and other life-threatening illnesses. City of Hope’s growing national system includes its Los Angeles campus, a network of clinical care locations across Southern California, a new cancer center in Orange County, California, and treatment facilities in Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix. Our dedicated and compassionate employees are driven by a common mission: To deliver the cures of tomorrow to the people who need them today. 

Provides quality patient care and family training through evaluation, treatment planning, and the application and assignment of speech-language pathology modalities and procedures. 

As a successful candidate, you will: 

  • Demonstrates entry level skills in developing treatment goals and plans based on evaluation data, rehabilitation potential, discharge plans, and in coordination with goals and plans of patient, family and other care team members. 

  • Demonstrates entry level skill and creativity in implementing patient treatment programs which are safe, effective, and efficient. 

  • Demonstrates entry level skills in modifying treatment plans according to patient needs and progress, terminates treatment appropriately, and develops appropriate discharge and post discharge plans.

  • Collaborates with physician and other healthcare professionals to ensure ongoing integrated patient care. 

  • Establishes and maintains therapeutic relationships with patient and caregivers.

  • Attends team and family conferences; interprets pertinent findings and contributes to the development of a multidisciplinary plan of care. 

  • Communicates effectively with all levels of staff.  Fosters the development of teamwork within the department while meeting the needs of departments being served. 

Your qualifications should include: 

  • Master’s degree in Speech and Language Pathology from an accredited school

  • Entry level position, no experience required.   

  • Current Speech- Language Pathologist license in the State of California ASHA Certification

  • BLS Certification (through the American Heart Association)

  • 1+ years in acute care, independence with MBSS, bilingual. Opportunity for training in complex head/neck cancer, tracheoesophageal prosthesis (TEP), Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) and Videostroboscopy, preferred

City of Hope employees pay is based on the following criteria: work experience, qualifications, and work location.

City of Hope is an equal opportunity employer.

To learn more about our Comprehensive Benefits, please CLICK HERE.


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About City of Hope

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

City of Hope is an independent biomedical research and treatment organization for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. Founded in 1913, City of Hope is a leader in bone marrow transplantation and immunotherapy such as CAR T cell therapy. City of Hopes translational research and personalized treatment protocols advance care throughout the world. Human synthetic insulin, monoclonal antibodies and numerous breakthrough cancer drugs are based on technology developed at the institution. AccessHope, a subsidiary launched in 2019 serves employers and their health care partners by providing access to City of Hopes specialized cancer expertise. City of Hope is ranked among the nations Best Hospitals in cancer by U.S. News & World Report and received Magnet Recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Its main campus is located near Los Angeles, with additional locations throughout Southern California and in Arizona.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Duarte, CA, US

Year founded

1913