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Medical & WelfareStableBright Outlook

Speech-Language Pathology Assistant

Operational-level

Also known as: Anatomic Pathology Assistant, Certified Pathology Assistant, Communication Assistant, Hearing and Speech Assistant

Medical & WelfareBachelor's Degree

Job Description

Assist speech-language pathologists in the assessment and treatment of speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders. Implement speech and language programs or activities as planned and directed by speech-language pathologists. Monitor the use of alternative communication devices and systems.
Speech-Language PathologyCommunication DisordersSpeech TherapyAugmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)HealthcareAllied HealthPatient CareMedical Support

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Bright Outlook

O*NET flags this career as a Bright Outlook occupation: grows rapidly over the next decade.

Projected growth

+4.8%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

14,100

per year (US)

Jobs today

113,900

in 2025 → 119,400 (2035)

Typical entry education

High school diploma or equivalent

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook.

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
High
Working in a team
High
Contact with others
High
Freedom to make decisions
Moderate
Time pressure
Moderate
Time spent sitting
Moderate
Working outdoors
Low
Indoor, climate-controlled
Moderate
Dealing with customers
Moderate
Level of competition
Moderate

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Stable Job Market

This field maintains steady employment levels with consistent demand. Job opportunities remain available with moderate competition.

Career ladder

Often before this role

  • Aide-soignant
  • Asistente médico
  • Asistente de rehabilitación

Where it can lead

  • Orthophoniste
  • Especialista en educación especial
  • Supervisor clínico (SLP)

Impact of AI on this Job

AI will increasingly support speech-language pathology assistants by automating data collection, analyzing speech patterns for diagnosis, and personalizing therapy exercises. While AI won't replace direct patient interaction, it can enhance efficiency, provide advanced analytical insights, and free up assistants to focus more on direct patient support and critical thinking.