Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

About the role

Northwestern Illinois Association (NIA) is a regional governmental agency providing special education support to 68 school districts across Northwestern Illinois. This position is for the 2026–2027 school year.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement individualized education/treatment programs for students whose ability to communicate has been impacted by developmental differences, disabilities, or injuries.
• Provide direct speech and language services: deliver therapy and interventions to students in accordance with their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to address communication disorders.
• Collaborate with educational staff: work closely with teachers, administrators, and other specialists to develop and implement strategies that support students’ speech, language, and communication development.
• Maintain accurate records: document all services, assessments, and interventions provided, ensuring compliance with district and state requirements.
• Participate in IEP meetings: offer expertise in speech-language assessments, goal setting, and progress monitoring to ensure students receive appropriate accommodations and support.
• Engage in professional development: stay informed on current best practices in speech-language pathology, special education, and related fields by attending workshops and training sessions.

Requirements

• Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology
• Illinois Speech-Language Pathology license (Required)
• Illinois School Board of Education Professional Educator’s License (PEL), Illinois School Support Personnel with Speech-Language Pathology Endorsement (Required)
• Proficiency with school-based technology and office equipment, including computers and specialized software applications like Microsoft Office and Google Suite.

We are open to helping you with this if you are certified by the Department of Education in another state.

Benefits

• Group Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance: Available for employees working 0.75 FTE or more, with PPO and HSA options.
• Defined-Benefit Pension Plans: Participation in the Teachers’ Retirement System of Illinois (TRS), providing a stable, defined-benefit pension that ensures financial security in retirement. Learn at https://www.trsil.org/
• Additional Retirement Savings Options: Access to 403(b) and 457 retirement savings plans—optional, employee-funded plans that provide additional opportunities for tax-advantaged savings.
• Paid Personal Leave and Sick Leave: Based on the number of days worked.
• Telemedicine: Access to 1800MD telemedicine services at no cost.
• Summer Work Opportunities: Opportunities to pick up additional summer work and earn extra pay.
• Summers Off with Year-Round Pay
• Expert Feedback and Evaluation: Receive guidance and evaluation from leaders who understand your expertise
• Ready Access to Equipment and Testing Materials
• Ongoing Professional Development: Enhance your knowledge and skills for school-based services
• Collaborative Environment: Engage in monthly meetings, roundtable discussions, and collaboration time with colleagues
• Regular 1:1 Check-Ins: Stay connected with your leaders through regular check-ins and team meetings

Pay

$63,580.83–$119,211.31 per year, depending on experience.

Schedule

180 days per year, 7.5 hours per day.