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Pathologist Starting Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Pathologist Starting information

How to start a career in pathology?

To start a career in pathology, one must complete a bachelor's degree, followed by medical school to earn an MD or DO degree. Afterward, a residency in pathology is required, during which candidates gain hands-on experience with laboratory techniques and diagnostic tools. Board certification by a relevant medical board is also typically necessary to practice independently.

How hard is it to find a job as a pathologist?

Finding a job as a pathologist can be competitive due to the specialized nature of the field and the limited number of positions available. Candidates typically need a medical degree, pathology residency, and board certification, and job availability often depends on healthcare demand and geographic location.

What jobs can you get as a pathologist?

A pathologist can work in hospitals, laboratories, or clinics, primarily diagnosing diseases by examining tissues, cells, and bodily fluids. They may specialize in areas such as forensic pathology, surgical pathology, or clinical pathology, and often require certification and proficiency with laboratory tools and techniques. Job roles include diagnostic pathologist, research scientist, or laboratory director.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pathologist Starting, and why are they important?

To thrive as a starting Pathologist, you need a medical degree, completed pathology residency, and strong analytical and diagnostic skills. Familiarity with laboratory information systems, microscopy, and diagnostic imaging software is typically required, along with board certification or eligibility. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively with clinical teams are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate diagnoses, effective patient care, and seamless integration with multidisciplinary medical teams.

What types of cases and responsibilities can a starting pathologist expect in their first year on the job?

As a starting pathologist, you can expect to handle a diverse volume of cases, often beginning with more routine specimens such as biopsies and cytology before progressing to complex diagnoses. Your responsibilities will include preparing and examining tissue samples, writing detailed pathology reports, and participating in multidisciplinary case discussions. Early in your career, you’ll likely receive mentorship from senior pathologists and may rotate across subspecialties to gain broad experience. Collaboration with clinicians and laboratory staff is essential, as clear communication ensures accurate diagnoses and patient care. Adapting to the workload and mastering efficient case management are common initial challenges, but these skills develop with experience and support from your team.

What does a pathologist do?

A pathologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing diseases by examining tissues, cells, and bodily fluids. They play a crucial role in patient care by providing information that helps guide treatment decisions, such as identifying cancer or infections. Pathologists work in laboratories, hospitals, and sometimes perform autopsies to determine the cause of death. Their findings are essential for accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans.

Is there a high demand for pathologists?

The demand for pathologists remains high due to the increasing need for diagnostic services in healthcare, aging populations, and advances in medical technology. Job opportunities are generally strong, especially in hospitals, laboratories, and academic settings, with a requirement for specialized training and certification. This demand is expected to continue as healthcare systems expand and evolve.

What is the difference between Pathologist Starting vs Pathologist Resident?

AspectPathologist StartingPathologist Resident
CredentialsMedical degree, pathology certification, licensureMedical degree, residency in pathology, licensure
Work EnvironmentHospitals, laboratories, clinics as an independent practitionerHospitals, academic medical centers during training
Job RolePerforming diagnostic tests, reporting findings, independent practiceLearning, assisting, gaining hands-on experience under supervision

Pathologist Starting roles involve independent diagnostic work after certification, while Pathologist Residents are in training, gaining experience under supervision. The main difference lies in experience level and independence in practice, with starting positions being full-fledged roles and residents still in the learning phase.

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Pathologist Starting jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Pathologist Starting job openings:
Infographic showing various Pathologist Starting job openings in Springfield, MO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) | Early Intervention

Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) | Early Intervention

THE ARC OF THE OZARKS

Springfield, MO

$62K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Arc Of The Ozarks rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) – Early InterventionQuick Snapshot
  • Starting salary: $62,400 annually
  • Employment type: Full-time, salaried/exempt
  • Schedule: Monday–Friday
  • Location: Springfield, Missouri
  • Population: Children ages 2–3 with emerging communication skills
  • Professional development: ADOS training, CEU support, and paid licensure fees
  • Clinical Fellows: May be considered based on supervision availability
Help Young Children Build the Foundation for Communication

The Arc of the Ozarks is seeking a Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist to join a specialized early-intervention and diagnostic team serving children ages 2–3.

Many of the children entering this program have limited functional communication and little or no previous therapy experience. Through play, observation, assessment, caregiver partnership, and individualized intervention, you will help children begin developing the communication skills that support future learning, relationships, and independence.

This role is well suited for an SLP who enjoys early language development, play-based clinical work, interdisciplinary collaboration, and supporting families during a pivotal stage of their child’s development.

Why This Role Matters

Early communication support can shape how a child connects with family members, expresses needs, participates in daily routines, and approaches future learning.

In this position, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Work intensively with children during an important developmental stage
  • Combine treatment with dynamic, play-based assessment
  • Contribute communication expertise to interdisciplinary diagnostic evaluations
  • Collaborate with psychologists, behavior analysts, and other therapy professionals
  • Coach parents and caregivers on practical communication strategies
  • Receive training in ADOS administration when needed
What You’ll Do
  • Conduct dynamic observations and structured speech-language assessments.
  • Use play-based engagement to evaluate communication, language, interaction, imitation, and social-development skills.
  • Develop and implement individualized goals supporting functional communication, early language acquisition, joint engagement, imitation, and social communication.
  • Contribute clinical observations and communication findings to interdisciplinary diagnostic evaluations.
  • Participate in ADOS administration when appropriately trained and applicable to the evaluation.
  • Provide parent and caregiver coaching to help families incorporate communication strategies into everyday routines.
  • Collaborate with members of the diagnostic and treatment team to provide coordinated, child-centered services.
  • Maintain timely and accurate evaluations, treatment notes, progress documentation, and other required records.
  • Participate in continuing education and professional development related to early intervention, autism, diagnostics, and pediatric communication.
Schedule, Location and Pay
  • Starting salary: $62,400 annually
  • Employment classification: Full-time, salaried/exempt
  • Schedule: Monday–Friday
  • Primary location: Springfield, Missouri

Additional information regarding typical daily hours, caseload expectations, and any local travel requirements will be discussed during the interview process.

What We’re Looking ForRequired Qualifications
  • Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited program
  • Current Missouri Speech-Language Pathology license in good standing or eligibility for the appropriate Missouri license
  • Ability to assess and engage young children through play and natural interaction
  • Ability to work collaboratively with families and an interdisciplinary clinical team
  • Clear written communication and timely documentation skills
Preferred Qualifications
  • ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology, or CCC-SLP
  • Experience working with toddlers or young children
  • Early-intervention or pediatric speech-language experience
  • Experience supporting children with emerging, limited, or nonspeaking communication
  • Experience participating in autism evaluations
  • Previous ADOS training

ADOS training is not required to apply. Training will be provided for the selected candidate when needed.

Clinical Fellows may be considered based on current supervision availability.

Benefits and Professional Support

Full-time team members may be eligible for:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance eligibility with no waiting period
  • Employer-paid life insurance and accidental death and dismemberment coverage
  • Immediate eligibility to enroll in the 403(b) retirement plan
  • Employer retirement match of up to 4% after one year of service
  • Vacation and sick-time accrual
  • Seven paid holidays each year
  • A paid day off to celebrate your birthday
  • CEU reimbursement and approved time away for continuing education
  • Paid professional licensure fees
  • Employer-provided malpractice insurance
  • ADOS and role-specific professional training
  • Fleet vehicle access or mileage reimbursement when applicable
  • Annual wage-increase potential
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee wellness program
  • Discounted fitness-center membership
  • Verizon and AT&T phone-plan discounts
  • Opportunities for continued professional growth and advancement
Why Join The Arc of the Ozarks?

The Arc of the Ozarks supports individuals with disabilities in directing their own lives as valued members of the community.

As part of our clinical team, you will bring specialized communication expertise to children and families while working alongside professionals who share a commitment to individualized, respectful, and coordinated support.

Apply Today

Apply through Indeed to be considered for the Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist position in Springfield.

The Arc of the Ozarks welcomes qualified Speech-Language Pathologists and eligible Clinical Fellows who are interested in early intervention, pediatric communication, and interdisciplinary diagnostic services.


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