Speech pathology is a rewarding and in-demand field, offering opportunities to make a meaningful impact on individuals with communication and swallowing disorders. If you’re considering a career as a Speech Pathology Jobs Portland Oregon, this guide covers everything you need to know—from job prospects and salary expectations to top employers and licensing requirements.
Key Takeaways
- Portland offers a strong job market for speech-language pathologists, with opportunities in schools, hospitals, and private clinics.
- The average salary for SLPs in Portland ranges from $75,000 to $95,000, depending on experience and setting.
- Oregon requires state licensure and ASHA (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association) certification for SLPs.
- Top employers include Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Providence Health & Services, and Portland Public Schools.
- Networking through local professional organizations can enhance job prospects and career growth.
Speech Pathology Jobs Portland Oregon Job Market
Portland’s growing healthcare and education sectors create a steady demand for speech-language pathologists. The city’s emphasis on inclusive education and rehabilitative services ensures job stability for SLPs in various settings:
- Schools: Public and private schools hire SLPs to work with children with speech and language disorders.
- Hospitals & Medical Centers: Acute care, rehabilitation hospitals, and outpatient clinics need SLPs for stroke recovery, TBI, and swallowing therapy.
- Private Practices: Many SLPs open their own clinics or join group practices specializing in pediatric or adult therapy.
- Home Health & Telepractice: Remote and in-home services are expanding, offering flexible work options.
Salary Expectations for Speech Pathology Jobs Portland Oregon
Salaries for SLPs in Portland vary based on experience, employer, and specialization. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023), the average annual salary for speech-language pathologists in Oregon is approximately $88,000, with Portland salaries often exceeding this due to higher living costs.
- Entry-Level SLPs (0-3 years): $70,000 – $80,000
- Mid-Career SLPs (4-9 years): $80,000 – $95,000
- Experienced SLPs (10+ years): $95,000 – $110,000+
Highest-Paying Settings:
- Hospitals & Rehabilitation Centers
- Private Specialty Clinics
- Home Health Agencies
Licensing & Certification Requirements
To practice as an SLP in Portland, you must meet Oregon’s licensing requirements:
- Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology (from an ASHA-accredited program).
- ASHA Certification (CCC-SLP): Complete a clinical fellowship (CFY) and pass the Praxis exam.
- Oregon State License: Apply through the Oregon Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology.
- Background Check & Fingerprinting: Required for school-based and healthcare positions.
- Additional Certifications: Specializations like LSVT LOUD (for Parkinson’s), PROMPT (for motor speech disorders), or AAC (Augmentative & Alternative Communication) can enhance job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Speech Pathology Jobs Portland Oregon
- Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) – Leading medical center hiring SLPs for neurology and pediatric roles.
- Providence Health & Services – Large healthcare network with SLP openings in acute care and outpatient rehab.
- Portland Public Schools (PPS) – Frequent job postings for school-based SLPs.
- Kaiser Permanente – Offers competitive salaries and benefits for medical SLPs.
- Child Development & Rehabilitation Center (CDRC) – Specializes in pediatric speech therapy.
Networking & Professional Organizations
Joining local SLP groups can help with job searches and career development:
- Oregon Speech-Language-Hearing Association (OSHA) – Hosts conferences and networking events.
- Portland Metro SLP Networking Group – Informal meetups for professionals.
- ASHA Special Interest Groups (SIGs) – Connects SLPs in niche areas like dysphagia or early intervention.
How to Find Speech Pathology Jobs Portland Oregon
- Job Boards: Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and ASHA’s Career Portal.
- Recruitment Agencies: Therapia Staffing, Sunbelt Staffing, and EBS Healthcare.
- Direct Applications: Check hospital, school district, and clinic career pages.
Future Outlook for SLPs in Portland
The demand for Speech Pathology Jobs Portland Oregon is expected to grow by 19% over the next decade (BLS), faster than the national average. Factors driving this growth include:
- Rising awareness of early intervention for speech disorders.
- Aging population requiring dysphagia and aphasia therapy.
- Increased need for school-based SLPs due to IEP mandates.
FAQs
What is the job outlook for SLPs in Portland?
The job market is strong, with a 19% projected growth rate due to healthcare and education needs.
Do I need a license to work as an SLP in Oregon?
Yes, Oregon requires state licensure and ASHA certification (CCC-SLP).
What settings hire the most SLPs in Portland?
Schools, hospitals, private clinics, and home health agencies are top employers.
How much do speech pathologists make in Portland?
Average salaries range from $75,000 to $95,000, with experienced SLPs earning over $100,000.
Are there part-time or remote SLP jobs in Portland?
Yes, telepractice and home health roles offer flexible schedules.
Final Thoughts
Portland, Oregon, is an excellent place to build a career in speech pathology, offering competitive salaries, diverse job settings, and a high quality of life. By obtaining the right certifications and networking with local professionals, you can secure a fulfilling SLP role in this vibrant city.