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Speech Language Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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The Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) at Speech Therapy Enhancement, Inc. supports licensed speech-language pathologists by implementing individualized treatment plans to improve speech ...

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The Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) at Speech Therapy Enhancement, Inc. supports licensed speech-language pathologists by implementing individualized treatment plans to improve speech ...

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Speech Language information

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$9

$43

$66

How much do speech language jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for speech language in California is $43.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.26 and $50.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a speech language pathologist?

Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) are healthcare professionals who assess, diagnose, and treat individuals with speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders. They work with people of all ages, from children with developmental delays to adults recovering from stroke or injury. SLPs use a variety of therapies and techniques to help clients improve their communication abilities and quality of life. They often collaborate with teachers, doctors, and family members to create effective treatment plans.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a speech language pathologist?

To thrive as a Speech Language Pathologist, you need a master's degree in speech-language pathology, clinical experience, and state licensure or certification (such as CCC-SLP). Familiarity with assessment tools, augmentative communication devices, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is typical in this role. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and clear communication are essential for building rapport with clients and collaborating with families and other professionals. These skills ensure accurate diagnoses, effective treatment plans, and positive outcomes for individuals with communication and swallowing disorders.

What are some common challenges speech language pathologists face when working in school settings, and how can they overcome them?

Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) working in schools often encounter challenges such as large caseloads, limited time for direct therapy, and balancing paperwork with student interaction. Collaborating closely with teachers and support staff can help SLPs integrate therapy into classroom activities and maximize impact. Additionally, prioritizing communication with parents and utilizing evidence-based group therapy techniques can help manage workloads while still delivering effective services to students.

What is the difference between Speech Language vs Speech Therapist?

AspectSpeech LanguageSpeech Therapist
CredentialsTypically requires a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Speech-Language PathologyRequires a Master's degree and state licensure as a Speech-Language Pathologist
Work EnvironmentSchools, clinics, hospitals, private practiceSchools, healthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers
Industry UsageUsed broadly in education, healthcare, and private practiceCommonly used in clinical and healthcare settings
Search & ComparisonOften searched alongside 'Speech Therapist' for similar rolesCompared frequently with 'Speech Language' in job searches

Speech Language and Speech Therapist are closely related terms. Speech Language typically refers to the field or the professional's expertise, while Speech Therapist is a common job title. Both require similar credentials and are employed in similar environments, especially in healthcare and educational settings. Understanding the distinction helps job seekers find the right opportunities and clarify roles in the industry.

Is speech language pathologist a good career?

A speech-language pathologist is a healthcare professional who diagnoses and treats communication and swallowing disorders. The career offers strong job growth, a competitive salary, and opportunities to work in schools, hospitals, or clinics, often requiring a master's degree and certification. It is considered a rewarding and stable profession with demand across various settings.

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Speech Language jobs?

Cities in California with the most Speech Language job openings:

Infographic showing various Speech Language job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,833 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Speech Language Pathologist Assistant

Palm Springs, CA

$26 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Position Summary:
Under the direction and supervision of a Speech and Language Pathologist,the Speech and Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) assists in supplementing, enhancing, and extending speech/language therapy services by completing a variety of tasks such as, but not limited to,direct activities with students designed to develop pre-language and language skills, oral-motor control for speech production, vocalization, and use of assistive technology devices for communication. The SLPA serves students who have identified speech and language disorders and may have other disabilities as well.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Conducts speech and language screenings, without interpretation, and using screening protocols developed by the supervising Speech and Language Pathologist (SLP); provides direct assistance for speech language voice fluency hearing to students under the supervision of the SLP;follows and implements documented Speech Pathology plans or protocols;documents client progress toward meeting established objectives, and reports the information to the SLP;assists the SLP during assessments, assisting with formal documentation, preparing materials, and performing clerical duties;prepares therapy materials and/or equipment for use in the therapy activities;adapts or modifies instructional materials and/or equipment as determined by client needs ; assists in maintaining client records, tallying data, preparing charts, records, graphs, and reports; and creates an orderly and clean therapy environment
Education and Experience:
Associate degree in and/or graduation from a Speech-Language Pathology assistant certificate program, OR Bachelors degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Disorders with a minimum of 100 hours field work/clinical experience from a Board-approved program
Licenses and Certificates:
Current registration as an SLA with the State of California Department of Consumer Affairs Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology at the time of appointment and must maintain current registration throughout employment.
Knowledge of:
  • Speech and language pathology equipment, materials, and procedures;
  • Normal speech, language, and hearing development;
  • Language disorders and rehabilitation;
  • Articulation disorders and rehabilitation;
  • Acquired disorders and rehabilitation;
  • Learning patterns in children;
  • Client behavior management techniques and strategies;
  • Learning problems of children with special education needs;
  • English usage, punctuation, spelling, grammar, and math;
  • Routine recordkeeping.
Ability to:
  • Assist speech and language therapist with implementation of care plans
  • Deal effectively with attitudes and behaviors of clients
  • Effectively and tactfully communicate in both oral and written forms;
  • Manage and use time effectively;
  • Demonstrate appropriate conduct;
  • Select, prepare, and present materials effectively;
  • Maintain student progress documentation;
  • Use a variety of screening tools and protocols, manage screenings and documentation;
  • Provide effective implementation of therapy objectives;
  • Operate instructional and office equipment;
  • Ability to do simple math in order to compile reports, and maintain records and status reports;
  • Interact successfully with parents, clients, supervisor, employees and community agency representatives;
  • Modify or Differentiate lessons to meet students needs and progress with guidance from SLP;
  • Consult with Supervisor when clients progress is not consistent;
  • Develop and monitor carry over activities with parents in the home;
  • Develop and provide creative, appropriate lessons/materials to ensure progress towards goals;
  • Work with clients individually and in small groups;
  • Biligual (Spanish/English)
Physical Requirements:
Essential duties require, but are not limited to, the following physical abilities:
  • Sit at a desk, table, on low chairs, on the floor or on mats for extended periods of time.
  • See, read and distinguish colors, a computer screen, educational materials, books and other printed matter, with or without vision aids.
  • Manual dexterity to enter data into a computer, and to perform assigned classroom tasks using both hands.
  • Hear and understand speech at normal outdoor levels , and to hear and understand speech on the telephone.
  • Speak in audible tones so that others may understand clearly in normal, outdoors, and on the telephone..
  • Physical agility to lift up to 25 pounds to shoulder height and 50 pounds to waist height; and to bend, stoop, sit on the floor, climb stairs, walk and reach overhead.
  • Mental acuity to perform the essential functions of this position in an accurate, neat, and timely fashion; to make good judgments and decisions; and to evaluate the results of decisions and judgments.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Vision insurance
License/Certification:
  • SLPA License (Required)
Work Location: In person