Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) | Early Intervention

THE ARC OF THE OZARKS•Springfield, MO

25d•Onsite

About The Position

The Arc of the Ozarks is seeking a Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) 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. 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, and coach parents and caregivers on practical communication strategies. You will also receive training in ADOS administration when needed.

Requirements

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

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

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.