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Speech Pathologist Jobs in Rutherford, TN (NOW HIRING)

Speech Pathologist

Martin, TN · On-site

$31 - $40.75/hr

Speech Pathologist Career Opportunity Welcome to Encompass Health: Where Compassion Meets Speech Therapy Are you searching for a career that aligns with your passion and brings fulfillment close to ...

Speech Pathologist

Martin, TN · On-site

$31 - $40.75/hr

Speech Pathologist Career Opportunity Welcome to Encompass Health: Where Compassion Meets Speech Therapy Are you searching for a career that aligns with your passion and brings fulfillment close to ...

Speech Path

Jackson, TN · On-site

$33.25 - $45.50/hr

Provides quality speech pathology services to most diagnoses, including evaluation, intervention and education, program planning and implementation, discharge planning, related documentation, and ...

Speech Path

Jackson, TN · On-site

$33.25 - $45.50/hr

Provides quality speech pathology services to most diagnoses, including evaluation, intervention and education, program planning and implementation, discharge planning, related documentation, and ...

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Speech Pathologist information

See Rutherford, TN salary details

$16

$33

$46

How much do speech pathologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for speech pathologist in Rutherford, TN is $33.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.70 and $37.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Speech Pathologists?

Speech Pathologists, also known as Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), are healthcare professionals who assess, diagnose, and treat communication and swallowing disorders. They work with people of all ages who have difficulties with speech, language, voice, fluency, or feeding and swallowing. SLPs develop individualized treatment plans to help clients improve their communication skills and overall quality of life. They often collaborate with teachers, doctors, and family members to support each person's specific needs.

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

To thrive as a Speech Pathologist, you need expertise in communication disorders, assessment techniques, and treatment planning, typically supported by a master's degree in speech-language pathology and state licensure or certification (such as CCC-SLP from ASHA). Familiarity with diagnostic tools, therapy software, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is standard in the field. Exceptional interpersonal skills, patience, and clear communication help build rapport with clients and collaborate effectively with families and other professionals. These competencies are crucial for delivering personalized, effective interventions that improve clients' quality of life.

What Does a Speech Pathologist Do?

A speech or language pathologist works with individuals on improving their verbal communication. They access and evaluate those with speech and language disorders and create treatment plans for their patients. They can work with children and adults, often in schools with young children. Treatments include exercises in making sounds, practicing vocabulary, and improving pronunciation. They also work with patients who have lost their speech or hearing through illness or injury.

What field of SLP makes the most money?

In speech-language pathology, those working in specialized areas such as medical or clinical settings, including audiology or swallowing disorders, tend to earn higher salaries. Additionally, SLPs with advanced certifications, extensive experience, or working in private practice or healthcare administration often have higher earning potential.

What are some common challenges Speech Pathologists face when working with diverse patient populations?

Speech Pathologists often work with patients from a variety of cultural, linguistic, and age backgrounds, which can present challenges in assessment and therapy. Adapting treatment plans to meet individual needs, overcoming language barriers, and building rapport with clients and their families are common hurdles. Successful Speech Pathologists use culturally responsive practices and collaborate closely with other healthcare professionals, educators, and caregivers to provide effective, personalized care.

Will SLP be replaced by AI?

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are unlikely to be fully replaced by AI, as their work involves complex human communication, assessment, and personalized therapy that require empathy and clinical judgment. AI tools can assist with data analysis and therapy exercises but do not replace the need for professional expertise, especially in diagnosing and addressing individual patient needs. SLPs will continue to play a vital role in treatment planning and patient interaction.

What is the difference between Speech Pathologist vs Speech Therapist?

AspectSpeech PathologistSpeech Therapist
CredentialsMaster's degree in Speech-Language Pathology, state licensureOften the same as Speech Pathologist, may vary by region
Work EnvironmentHospitals, schools, clinics, private practiceSimilar settings, often used interchangeably
Industry UsageFormal term used in healthcare and educationCommonly used in public and informal contexts
Search & ComparisonMost common professional title in clinical settingsPopular alternative term, especially in non-clinical contexts

Both Speech Pathologist and Speech Therapist refer to professionals trained to diagnose and treat speech and language disorders. The terms are often used interchangeably, with 'Speech Pathologist' being the formal, industry-standard title, while 'Speech Therapist' is more common in casual or regional usage. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments.

Can SLP diagnosis dyslexia?

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) do not diagnose dyslexia, as it is a learning disability related to reading and decoding skills. However, SLPs can assess and treat language and phonological processing issues that may impact reading development, often collaborating with educators and psychologists for comprehensive evaluations. Diagnosing dyslexia typically involves assessments by psychologists or educational specialists.

Do SLP treat Tourette's?

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) do not typically treat Tourette's disorder directly, as it is primarily a neurological condition. However, SLPs may work with individuals who have speech or language difficulties related to tics or co-occurring conditions, providing strategies to improve communication and manage vocal tics. Treatment for Tourette's is usually managed by neurologists and psychologists, with SLPs supporting related communication challenges when necessary.
What cities near Rutherford, TN are hiring for Speech Pathologist jobs? Cities near Rutherford, TN with the most Speech Pathologist job openings:
Infographic showing various Speech Pathologist job openings in Rutherford, TN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 40% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,248 per year, or $33.8 per hour.
Speech Pathologist

Speech Pathologist

Encompass Health

Martin, TN • On-site

$31 - $40.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Encompass Health rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 408 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

443rd of 875 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Speech Pathologist Career Opportunity


Welcome to Encompass Health: Where Compassion Meets Speech Therapy
Are you searching for a career that aligns with your passion and brings fulfillment close to home? At Encompass Health, we greet you like an old friend, fostering a sense of belonging right from the beginning. Imagine the chance to make a profound difference in your community by providing essential therapy and unwavering support to patients. Join our team as a Speech Pathologist and become a pivotal figure in assisting patients in overcoming speech and communication challenges. You'll find a supportive environment where small victories create monumental impacts and where you'll have access to cutting-edge technology while working for the nation's largest rehabilitation company. If this resonates with you, you're in the perfect place to make a meaningful impact.

A Glimpse into Our World
Whether you're beginning your career or a seasoned Speech Pathologist looking for a nurturing environment to call home, we're confident you'll feel the difference the moment you join our team. Being a part of Encompass Health means being a part of a growing national inpatient rehabilitation leader. We take pride in our career growth opportunities and the collaborative spirit of our team members, united for the greater good of our patients. Our recognitions, including being named one of the "World's Most Admired Companies" and receiving the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For Award, make us immensely proud.

Benefits That Begin With You
Our benefits are designed to support your well-being and start on day one:

  • Affordable medical, dental, and vision plans for both full-time and part-time employees and their families.
  • Generous paid time off that accrues over time.
  • Tuition reimbursement and continuous education opportunities for your professional growth.
  • Company-matching 401(k) and employee stock purchase plans, securing your financial future.
  • Flexible spending and health savings accounts tailored to your unique needs.
  • A vibrant community of individuals who are passionate about what they do.

Embrace Your Role as a Speech Pathologist

  • Your impactful journey involves:
  • Evaluating, assessing, developing, and administering personalized treatment plans for patients with speech and language rehabilitation needs.
  • Identifying issues and modifying speech therapy treatment if necessary.
  • Tracking and documenting patient performance, progress, and response to treatment.
  • Celebrating patient victories along the way.

Qualifications

  • Current licensure or certification required by state regulations.
  • Successful completion of SLP Certification of Clinical Competence (CCC).
  • CPR certification required or must be obtained within 30 days of hire.
  • Master's degree preferred, or Bachelor's degree with field experience.
The Encompass Health Way 

We proudly set the standard in care by leading with empathy, doing what's right, focusing on the positive, and standing stronger together. Encompass Health is a trusted leader in post-acute care with over 150 nationwide locations and a team of 36,000 exceptional individuals and growing! 
 
At Encompass Health, we celebrate and welcome diversity in our inclusive culture. We provide equal employment opportunities regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, color, creed, age, mental or physical disability, or any other protected classification. 

What Encompass Health employees say

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About Encompass Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Helping patients regain hope and independence, Encompass Health is a national leader in post-acute care. We operate rehabilitation hospitals in 36 states as well as Puerto Rico. Following the Encompass Way, we are driven by our core values: We proudly set the standard, lead with empathy, do what's right, focus on the positive, and remain stronger together.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Birmingham, AL, US

Year founded

1984