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Slp Starting Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Slp Starting information

See Springfield, MO salary details

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How much do slp starting jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for slp starting in Springfield, MO is $40.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.33 and $46.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an SLP starting out do?

An SLP starting out, or a Speech-Language Pathologist at the beginning of their career, typically evaluates, diagnoses, and treats communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. Early-career SLPs often work under supervision, especially if they are completing their Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY), and may work in settings such as schools, hospitals, or private practices. Their responsibilities include creating individualized treatment plans, documenting progress, and collaborating with other professionals and families to support their clients' needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a speech-language pathologist starting out, and why are they important?

To thrive as a starting Speech-Language Pathologist, you need a master's degree in speech-language pathology, ASHA certification (CCC-SLP), and state licensure. Familiarity with assessment tools, therapy materials, and electronic documentation systems is typical in this role. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and clear communication help build rapport with clients and collaborate effectively with families and other professionals. These competencies ensure effective diagnosis and treatment, positive patient outcomes, and professional growth in diverse clinical settings.

What are some common challenges new speech-language pathologists face when starting their careers, and how can they overcome them?

New SLPs often encounter challenges such as managing diverse caseloads, adapting to different work settings (schools, hospitals, clinics), and building effective communication with families and interdisciplinary teams. Time management and documentation requirements can also be overwhelming at first. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, utilize organizational tools, and actively participate in professional development opportunities. Collaborating with other professionals and staying updated with evidence-based practices can also enhance confidence and effectiveness in the role.

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Slp Starting jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Slp Starting job openings:

Infographic showing various Slp Starting job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,721 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) | Early Intervention

THE ARC OF THE OZARKS

Springfield, MO • On-site

$62K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Arc Of The Ozarks rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 15 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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