Speech-Language Pathologist

Quick Facts

• Role: Speech-Language Pathologist (full performance level GS-12; selection may be GS-11 to GS-12)

• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:45am–4:30pm

• Telework/Virtual: Not available

• EDRP: Eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (apply within four months of appointment; approval and award depend on review)

Description

This role performs independent diagnostic assessments and provides therapy for inpatients and outpatients with speech, language, voice, and swallowing disorders. You will develop and adjust treatment plans based on evaluation findings, monitor progress, and report results to the interdisciplinary team. The position also includes participation in staff meetings and service-level educational programs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct diagnostic tests and complete evaluations for referred patients

• Interview patients and appropriate family members/caregivers

• Select, administer, and interpret tests to detect and evaluate speech, language, voice, and swallowing disorders

• Report findings to other professionals involved in diagnostic and remedial decisions

• Use contemporary, evidence-based diagnostic and treatment principles and remain current through professional learning

• Develop therapy plans and provide treatment to minimize or resolve speech and/or swallowing conditions

• Administer and interpret voice and speech tests (pitch/loudness variation, rate of utterance, disfluency patterns, phonetic analysis)

• Establish effective therapy relationships with patients, families, and caregivers

• Adjust treatment plans based on patient response and progress indicators

• Participate in section/service staff meetings and service-level educational programs

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship

• Proficiency in written and spoken English

• Subject to background/security investigation

• Pass a pre-employment physical examination

• Seasonal influenza vaccination is required

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in speech-language pathology/communication disorders or a directly related field plus 1 year of creditable experience, or a doctoral degree in a related field

• For GS-12 and above: full, current, unrestricted state license

• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English at a level necessary to perform the duties

• Selective Service registration required for eligible males

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government includes a comprehensive federal benefits package; eligibility depends on the specific type of position.