Speech-Language Pathologist (Paediatric Focus)

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Professional development funding

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, is seeking a qualified Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in paediatrics to assess, diagnose, and treat communication and swallowing disorders in children from infancy to adolescence. The role collaborates with families and educators, uses evidence-based practices, and requires HPCSA registration and a Master's degree.

A strong paediatric focus and compassionate approach are essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited institution.
• Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Speech-Language Pathologist.
• Minimum of 4 years of clinical paediatric experience.
• Experience assessing and treating paediatric communication disorders (articulation, language delays, etc.).
• Experience with feeding and swallowing evaluations (dysphagia) is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive paediatric assessments of speech, language, communication, cognitive-communication, and swallowing.
• Diagnose speech, language, and swallowing disorders based on assessments.
• Develop and implement individualized, evidence-based therapy plans.
• Provide direct speech and language therapy in individual or group settings.
• Educate and train parents and caregivers on therapy techniques for home carryover.
• Collaborate with paediatricians, occupational therapists, audiologists, and educators.
• Maintain accurate, confidential progress notes, plans, and reports.
• Stay current with paediatric research and best practices.
• Advocate for children's communication needs in community and schools.
• Participate in team meetings, case conferences, and professional development.

Skills

Speech-Language Pathologist

Paediatric care

Assessment skills

Interdisciplinary teamwork

Education

Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology

HPCSA registration

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading multidisciplinary therapy center in Upington, Northern Cape , is seeking a dedicated and skilled Speech-Language Pathologist with a specialization in paediatric care. This role is crucial in assessing, diagnosing, and treating communication and swallowing disorders in children from infancy through adolescence. You will work collaboratively with families, educators, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement individualized therapy plans, aiming to improve the quality of life for children facing communication challenges. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of paediatric speech and language development, a compassionate approach, and a commitment to evidence-based practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of speech, language, communication, cognitive-communication, and swallowing abilities in paediatric clients.
• Diagnose speech, language, and swallowing disorders based on assessment findings and clinical expertise.
• Develop and implement individualized, evidence-based therapy plans tailored to the specific needs of each child.
• Provide direct speech and language therapy services to children in individual or group settings.
• Educate and train parents, caregivers, and families on therapeutic techniques to support carryover in daily environments.
• Collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals (e.g., paediatricians, occupational therapists, audiologists) and educational staff.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential client records, including progress notes, treatment plans, and reports.
• Stay current with the latest research, techniques, and best practices in paediatric speech-language pathology.
• Advocate for the communication needs of children within the community and educational settings.
• Participate in team meetings, case conferences, and professional development activities.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Speech-Language Pathologist.
• A minimum of 4 years of clinical experience, with a strong focus on paediatric speech and language therapy.
• Proven expertise in assessing and treating a wide range of paediatric communication disorders (e.g., articulation, phonology, language delays, fluency, pragmatic language, voice).
• Experience with feeding and swallowing evaluations and interventions (dysphagia) is highly desirable.
• Excellent diagnostic, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and counselling skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in using relevant assessment tools and therapy techniques.
• Compassionate, patient, and dedicated to working with children.

Benefits

This position offers a competitive annual salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and professional development funding, and the opportunity to work within a supportive and collaborative clinical environment in Upington, Northern Cape . You will have the chance to make a significant positive impact on the lives of children and families in the region.