Speech therapist Jobs in Downey, CA

Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA)

Starting Rate: $45 - $55 /hour based on experience

Environment: Special Education Program, Grades K-12

Program Locations: Chino Hills|Orange|Buena Park

Spectrum Center Schools and Programs, a growing, dynamic organization with a social mission to offer hope, is seeking a Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) to join our award-winning Special Education team and perform meaningful work in a culture that welcomes innovation, encourages creative expression and offers limitless potential for personal and professional satisfaction!

If you thrive in a collaborative, student-focused, outcome-driven environment, seek a career that makes a meaningful impact, and possess compassion, creativity, and an exceptional work ethic We Should Talk!

As a Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA), you will partner closely with our Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) to deliver exceptional speech therapy services across multiple Spectrum School locations within your designated region. Your role will include evaluating student needs, implementing personalized therapy plans, tracking progress, and collaborating with educational teams to foster significant improvement in students' communication skills and overall developmental growth.

Responsibilities Include:

• Evaluating students to identify speech therapy needs and determine suitable levels of intervention.
• Assisting the Speech Language Pathologist with assessments by preparing clinical materials, documenting formal assessments, and supporting clinical activities.
• Conducting speech-language screenings using established protocols developed by the Speech Language Pathologist.
• Providing direct therapy support to students under the SLP's guidance, applying evidence-based interventions designed to enhance speech, communication, language comprehension, and cognitive skills tailored to each child's age and environment.
• Implementing documented treatment plans and protocols established by the supervising SLP.
• Documenting therapy sessions and student progress promptly and accurately in compliance with Spectrum policies and state regulations, and providing reports to the SLP.
• Maintaining comprehensive and timely case records according to organizational policies and regulatory standards, completing all necessary documentation, including billing, within 24 hours of service.
• Communicating proactively and effectively with families regarding scheduling, session make-ups, and progress updates.
• Collaborating closely with teachers, parents, and related service providers to support the integration of therapy objectives into daily educational routines and activities.
• Participating actively in onsite multidisciplinary meetings and regional conferences, sharing insights and recommendations for student treatment and progress.
• Scheduling therapeutic activities and preparing charts, records, graphs, and data analyses.
• Conducting routine checks and maintaining therapy equipment, including augmentative communication devices, to ensure optimal functionality.
• Supporting the Speech Language Pathologist with research initiatives, staff training sessions, and community/family education programs.
• Obtaining explicit approval from the supervising SLP before conducting evaluations, interpreting assessment data, modifying treatment plans, or undertaking any new therapeutic tasks.
• Ensuring strict adherence to all compliance protocols, policies, and documentation standards for the program.
• Engaging actively in ongoing professional development to remain informed of the latest trends and best practices in speech pathology and educational interventions.
• Traveling regularly and maintaining a consistent presence across all assigned Spectrum School locations, with occasional overnight stays as required.
• Performing additional duties or special projects as requested by the onsite Program Director(s) or assigned Speech Language Pathologist.

Qualifications Required:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in speech pathology or a closely related field of study.
• Licensed currently or in the process of obtaining a speech language pathology assistant (SLPA) credential.
• Hold currently or have the ability to obtain a valid CA state drivers license.
• Ability to obtain and maintain certification in company approved crisis management training.
• Prior experience and/or knowledge in providing speech therapy support to children, preferably in an alternative, special education and/or behavioral health program setting.
• Knowledgeable in special education services and compliance, effective teaching strategies, classroom management systems, data-based decision making, and working with children with individualized education plans (IEP's).
• Highly skilled in working with children with learning disabilities, emotional behavioral disorders, autism spectrum disorders and/or other related disabilities.
• Proficiency in providing motivation and having critical conversations with students that help move them toward realistic goals.
• Proven ability to effectively prioritize tasks and meet deadlines while maintaining organization and attention to detail.
• Highly skilled in building relationships with students, parents, teachers, education staff and/or district partners.
• Advanced oral and written communication, organization, conflict resolution, multitasking, problem solving, and decision-making ability.
• Knowledge of relevant technology including experience with instructional technology, Microsoft Office Suite, database entry and basic office equipment.

Spectrum Center Schools and Programs is a division of ChanceLight Behavioral Health, Therapy, & Education, the nation's leading provider of alternative and special education programs for children and young adults. For more than 50 years, and in partnership with over 235 school districts nationwide, we have helped change the direction of more than 240,000 student lives!

At ChanceLight we believe in providing more than just a job, as a member of our team you'll receive the opportunity to make meaningful impacts, the support needed to achieve success, and all the tools essential to reaching your personal & professional fulfillment! Your path to a truly rewarding career starts here where growth, empowerment, and collaboration define our culture; and every day is a Chance to transform lives through education!

Perks and Benefits Include:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental and Vision Plans
• Annual Education Stipend - $2,000
• FREE Telehealth and Virtual Counseling Sessions
• FREE Health Advocacy Services and 24/7 Nurse Line
• Company Paid Life & Disability Insurance
• Company Paid Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
• Personal Protection Insurance Plans
• Cigna Healthy Pregnancies, Healthy Babies Program
• Legal Services Insurance
• Pet Health Insurance
• Accrual-based Paid Time Off
• School Hours and Paid Holiday Schedule
• Extensive Personal and Life Event Paid Leave Policy
• 401k Retirement Saving Plan
• Perks at Work Employee Discount Program
• Opportunities for Growth & Development
• And So Much More!

If you're ready to start making lasting impacts on the lives of students and contribute to the creation of a brighter future This Is Your Chance!

Join us and together, we can empower students to overcome challenges, build confidence and unlock their full potential!

Careers, With ChanceLight Work. With Purpose.

Copyright 2026 ChanceLight Behavioral Health, Therapy, & Education, a ChanceLight company. *Benefit plans and eligibility requirements may vary based on role and employment status.

Travel Required: Yes. Provide on-site support to all campus's within the assigned region.