Speech Language Pathologist

PLEA Community Services is currently seeking a Regular Full-Time Speech Language Pathologist for our Asante team located in Maple Ridge, BC. The proposed start date for this position is as soon as possible. This position requires BCGEU membership.

The Speech Language Pathologist carries out assessment, therapy, and consultation services for participants who have speech and communication impairment disorders related to suspected neurodevelopmental disabilities or a range of communication influences. The employee will screen, assess, treat, and diagnose these participants.

Hours of Work: The usual hours of work in this position are Monday to Friday based on a flextime scheduling arrangement, including days and evenings, of 35 working hours per week.

Education/Experience Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Speech/Language Pathology plus registration with the appropriate provincial licensing body.
• Two (2) years of recent related experience.

Who We Are:

PLEA is an accredited, charitable community services organization that has operated throughout BC for more than 40 years. We deliver community-based services and specialized supported homes to children, youth, adults and families facing significant challenges in their lives. We continually adapt our programs to suit each individual’s diverse strengths, needs and circumstances. As a result, we have a strong reputation for helping those we serve to overcome the challenges they face and lead fulfilling lives.

What You Will Do: 

• Observe participants and administer tests to diagnose the nature of the disorder and evaluate the degree of impairment.
• Identify, assess, plan and conduct remedial treatment to correct differing speech and communication impairment disorders.
• Provide speech training for participants with communication disorders caused by cerebral palsy, surgical removal of the larynx, hearing deficiencies, neurodevelopmental disabilities or other impairments.
• Plan individual or group therapy for participants with communication disorders.
• Counsel and guide participants with communication and speech disorders and their families, teachers or employers.
• Act as a consultant to educational, medical, dental and other professional groups.
• Provide guidance to other team members on the multidisciplinary assessment team to carry out remedial programs to diagnose and treat participants with speech and communication disorders.
• Conduct in-services, workshops and training. Keep current on literature and research in the field. Provide up-to-date best practice information.
• Liaise with external agencies and professionals dealing with participants. Recommend referral to appropriate professionals if the need arises.
• Participate in program evaluation, research and/or in special studies as required.
• Maintain related records and prepare reports.
• Protect and uphold confidentiality.
• Perform other related duties as required.

What You Will Bring:

• Demonstrated ability to promote communication changes through a variety of speech pathology approaches and interventions, including with participants who may be reluctant to engage.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and the demonstrated ability to build trusting and effective relationships with participants, agency staff, professionals, Family Caregivers, and families.
• Demonstrated skills in working and collaborating with a multidisciplinary team.
• Exceptional conflict management and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, make sound decisions in high pressure situations and be accountable for results.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills, including the ability to multi-task and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills, including the ability to prepare accurate and comprehensive clinical reports.
• Demonstrated ability to be sensitive and understanding of individuals’ social realities including issues of race, culture, religion, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, poverty and lifestyle.
• Demonstrated knowledge of issues and trends related to the program.
• Knowledge of issues and trends related to FASD, autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental concerns.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office suite and database systems.

PLEA Benefits and Perks:

• Eligibility to enroll in health/welfare benefits on the first day of the month following the completion of the probation period.
• Enrollment in the Municipal Pension Plan, as per the plan's criteria.
• Annual physical activity fund (for fitness-related items or activities) post-probation.
• Annual education fund to take part in career-related courses or training events post-probation.
• Access to the Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP): counselling support services and wellness resources for employees and their immediate family members.
• Discounted gym membership at Club 16 Trevor Linden and She's Fit.
• Perkopolis membership: an exclusive discount program for a variety of products and services (clothes, furniture, dining, auto, events, etc.)
• Agency-Sponsored Social Events (i.e., summer barbecue, annual holiday party, and team days).

Minimum Requirements:

• Satisfactory Criminal Record Clearance.
• Registered Speech-Language Pathologist (RSLP) Designation.
• Must possess a valid Basic First Aid certificate (formerly OFA Level 1) or be willing to obtain one prior to hire.
• Must have access to a personal vehicle for work-related travel. This position requires travel in the Lower Mainland and the Fraser Valley.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Class 5 or 7N B.C. Driver's License and suitable driver's abstract/claims history.
• Documentation that the applicant is legally authorized to work on an ongoing basis in Canada.

Note: PLEA conducts primary source verification of applicant's credentials including education, training, work history, and licensure.