Speech-Language Pathologist

Military Hospital – Texas

Position Summary

The Speech-Language Pathologist provides comprehensive diagnostic, therapeutic, and consultative services for active duty military personnel, veterans, military families, and civilian beneficiaries. This position requires expertise in treating communication and swallowing disorders commonly seen in military populations, including combat-related injuries, hearing loss, traumatic brain injury, and post-traumatic stress disorder impacts on communication.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Clinical Care

• Conduct comprehensive speech, language, cognitive-communication, and swallowing evaluations using standardized and non-standardized assessment tools
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans for patients with communication and swallowing disorders
• Provide direct therapy services including articulation, language, voice, fluency, cognitive-communication, and dysphagia treatment
• Perform instrumental swallowing assessments including videofluoroscopic swallow studies and fiberoptic endoscopic evaluations
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams including physicians, audiologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, neuropsychologists, and social workers

Military-Specific Expertise

• Assess and treat communication disorders resulting from blast injuries, traumatic brain injury, and combat-related trauma
• Provide voice therapy for military personnel with vocal trauma from chemical exposure or prolonged voice use in combat environments
• Support communication needs related to hearing loss and tinnitus management in coordination with audiology services
• Address cognitive-communication deficits associated with PTSD and other mental health conditions

Documentation and Compliance

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in military electronic health records systems
• Ensure compliance with Joint Commission standards, military medical regulations, and ASHA Code of Ethics
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and outcome measurement programs
• Complete mandatory military hospital training and continuing education requirements

Professional Development

• Stay current with evidence-based practices in speech-language pathology
• Participate in case conferences, grand rounds, and professional development activities
• Mentor students and clinical fellows as assigned
• Contribute to research and publication efforts when applicable

Qualifications

Required:

• Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an ASHA-accredited program
• Current state licensure in Texas
• Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
• Ability to obtain and maintain appropriate security clearance
• Minimum 2 years of clinical experience preferred

Preferred:

• Experience in medical/hospital setting, particularly acute care or rehabilitation
• Previous military or federal healthcare experience
• Specialized training in traumatic brain injury, dysphagia management, or voice disorders
• Bilingual capabilities (Spanish preferred given Texas demographics)
• Board Certified Specialist certification in relevant area

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency with instrumental assessment tools (FEES, VFSS)
• Experience with military electronic health record systems (preferred)
• Knowledge of assistive and augmentative communication devices
• Familiarity with hearing aid and cochlear implant technology

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and position patients up to 50 pounds with assistance
• Manual dexterity for equipment operation and patient care
• Visual and auditory acuity adequate for clinical assessment and treatment
• Ability to work in various hospital environments including ICU, emergency department, and outpatient clinics

Work Environment

• Military hospital setting with 24/7 operations
• May require rotating shifts, weekend, and holiday coverage
• Potential deployment or temporary duty assignments
• High-stress environment with critically ill and trauma patients

Benefits

• Competitive federal salary scale (GS-12/13 typical range)
• Comprehensive health and dental insurance
• Federal retirement system participation
• Annual and sick leave accrual
• Professional development and continuing education support
• Military base privileges and services

This position offers the opportunity to serve military personnel and their families while advancing expertise in treating complex communication and swallowing disorders in a dynamic healthcare environment.