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Speech Pathologist Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Speech Pathologist

Des Moines, IA

$35.50 - $46.50/hr

As a Speech Language Pathologist, you will evaluate patients, develop individualized treatment ... of the Communication Assistant and Therapy Technician. Performance Improvement: Accepts ...

New

Speech Therapist-PRN

Boone, IA · On-site

$38.82 - $53.47/hr

Use of volunteers who may assist in their areas * Temporary Speech Pathologist Licensees, Clinical Fellows, and Student Speech Pathologists within their areas Evaluations * To be responsible for the ...

Speech Therapist-PRN

Boone, IA · On-site

$38.82 - $53.47/hr

Use of volunteers who may assist in their areas * Temporary Speech Pathologist Licensees, Clinical Fellows, and Student Speech Pathologists within their areas Evaluations * To be responsible for the ...

Speech Therapist-PRN

Boone, IA · On-site

$38.82 - $53.47/hr

Use of volunteers who may assist in their areas. * Temporary Speech Pathologist Licensees, Clinical Fellows, and Student Speech Pathologists within their areas. Evaluations * To be responsible for ...

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Showing results 1-20

Speech Pathologist Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$32.4K

$68.2K

$127.3K

How much do speech pathologist assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for speech pathologist assistant in Iowa is $68,231.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $79,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a speech pathologist assistant?

Speech Pathologist Assistants (SPAs) are trained professionals who work under the supervision of licensed Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) to help individuals with communication and swallowing disorders. They assist in implementing treatment plans, conducting therapy sessions, preparing materials, and tracking client progress. SPAs do not diagnose conditions or create treatment plans, but provide valuable support to increase the efficiency and reach of speech therapy services. Their role is essential in schools, clinics, and healthcare settings to help clients improve their speech, language, and communication skills.

What does a speech pathologist assistant do?

A speech pathologist assistant helps a speech-language pathologist (SLP) treat patients with speaking impairments. As a speech pathologist assistant, you will perform auditory screenings with patients, document patient progress, and explain the treatment plan that the SLP recommends. Speech pathologist assistants are also required to set up audio equipment, verify insurance, and schedule therapeutic activities. Speech pathologist assistants may work in a school, clinic, hospital, or learning center.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a speech pathologist assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Speech Pathologist Assistant, you need a solid understanding of speech and language development, typically supported by an associate’s degree or certificate in speech-language pathology assisting. Familiarity with therapy materials, documentation software, and data collection systems is important for supporting licensed speech-language pathologists. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to follow detailed instructions help you build rapport with clients and work effectively in clinical or educational settings. These skills ensure accurate implementation of therapy plans and high-quality support for both clients and supervising pathologists.

What are the typical responsibilities of a speech pathologist assistant during a workweek?

As a Speech Pathologist Assistant (SPA), you will primarily support licensed Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) by implementing treatment plans, conducting therapeutic exercises with clients, and documenting session progress. You may work in settings such as schools, clinics, or rehabilitation centers, often collaborating closely with SLPs, teachers, and families. Your daily tasks can include preparing therapy materials, observing and recording client responses, and providing feedback to the supervising SLP. While you won't diagnose or develop treatment plans, your work is vital to helping clients achieve their communication goals.

What is the difference between Speech Pathologist Assistant vs Speech Therapist?

AspectSpeech Pathologist AssistantSpeech Therapist
CredentialsTypically requires an associate degree and certification as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA)Requires a master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology and state licensure
Work EnvironmentHospitals, schools, clinics under supervisionHospitals, clinics, private practices, schools
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist speech-language pathologists with therapy activities, prepare materialsDiagnose and treat speech, language, and communication disorders

The main difference is that Speech Pathologist Assistants support licensed Speech Therapists and have less advanced credentials, focusing on assisting with therapy activities. Speech Therapists hold advanced degrees and are responsible for diagnosis and treatment planning.

What are the most commonly searched types of Speech Pathologist jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Speech Pathologist jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Speech Pathologist Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Speech Pathologist Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Speech Pathologist Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Speech Pathologist Assistant job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Speech Pathologist Assistant jobs in IA?

For Speech Pathologist Assistant jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Speech Pathologist Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,231 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Speech Pathologist

Des Moines, IA


UnityPoint Health
Hospitals • 10K+ employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

304th of 895 rated healthcare providers

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$35.50 - $46.50/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Make a meaningful difference by helping patients of all ages improve communication, swallowing, and overall quality of life. As a Speech Language Pathologist, you will evaluate patients, develop individualized treatment plans, and collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to achieve the best possible outcomes. This role offers the opportunity to provide compassionate, evidence-based care across a variety of settings while building strong relationships with patients, families, providers, and care teams. 

Schedule: 
PRN As Needed: Variable hours during the week - Outpatient 


At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.  

Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in. Here are just a few:   

  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.   
  • Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.  
  • Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.   

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.  

And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience. 

Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.


Clinical Excellence/Patient Care:

Receives referrals, screens and/or evaluates to determine the need for patient intervention.

Interprets evaluation findings and develops an appropriate treatment plan, including goal setting.

Carries out treatment plan and coordinates with patient, family, significant others and care team. Monitors patient’s response and modifies treatment to achieve goals.

Documents the results of patient’s assessment, treatment, follow-up and termination of services.

Develops appropriate home or community programming to maintain and enhance the performance of the patients in their own environment.

Quality Assurance:

Reviews and analyzes quality appropriateness of the occupational therapy services delivered. Reports associated problems to supervisor as indicated.

Billing Functions:

Understands and complies with billing and reimbursement procedures according to governmental and third party requirements. Follows through with accurate and ethical billing practices.

Student Education:

Oversees Speech Pathology students as assigned. According to licensure laws, is professionally accountable for overseeing delegated clinical skills of the Communication Assistant and Therapy Technician.

Performance Improvement:

Accepts responsibility for maintaining and developing personal and professional skills and knowledge related to the work area assigned.


Education:

Graduate from an accredited speech pathology program.

Experience:

New Graduates Accepted.

One year of pediatric experience preferred.

Pediatric Clinical Internship.

License(s)/Certification(s):

Licensed or in the process of obtaining licensure to practice Speech Pathology in the state of Iowa as defined in the Iowa Speech Pathologists and Audiologists Regulation and Practice Act.

Valid driver’s license when driving any vehicle for work-related reasons.


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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995


What UnityPoint Health employees say

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