Job Title: Speech-Language Pathologist, Independent Educational Evaluator (IEE)
Location: Northern California
Job Type: Part-Time
About the Role
Cognitive Diagnostic Associates (CDA) is seeking a Speech-Language Pathologist with strong clinical, analytical, and forensic writing skills to conduct Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) within special education matters.
This is not a traditional therapy position. The role is focused on forensic evaluation, records analysis, educational assessment, and development of legally defensible reports within IDEA and special education frameworks. The ideal candidate is comfortable analyzing complex educational histories, identifying missed or insufficient supports, evaluating communication needs across educational settings, and writing comprehensive reports that may later be reviewed in mediation, due process, or legal proceedings.
Candidates must understand IDEA, FAPE, educational impact, Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), and multidisciplinary special education systems. Experience participating in contentious IEP matters, mediations, or due process cases is strongly preferred.
Responsibilities
Conduct comprehensive speech-language evaluations as part of Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs).
Review and analyze educational records, prior assessments, IEPs, service data, progress monitoring, disciplinary history, attendance records, and related documentation.
Assess expressive language, receptive language, pragmatic language, social communication, articulation, AAC needs, functional communication, and educational impact across settings.
Identify areas of unmet need, incomplete assessment, insufficient intervention, or inconsistencies within prior district evaluations and programming.
Conduct school observations, parent interviews, staff interviews, and clinical interviews as needed.
Develop comprehensive, organized, and legally defensible forensic reports supported by objective data and educational analysis.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary evaluators including psychologists, occupational therapists, educational specialists, APE evaluators, behavior specialists, and related providers.
Participate in IEP meetings, mediation, and due process matters when requested.
Provide clear recommendations regarding educational programming, services, accommodations, supports, communication systems, and intervention needs.
Maintain timely documentation and adhere to operational report timelines.
Qualifications
Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Disorders from an accredited institution.
Current state licensure as a Speech-Language Pathologist.
ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) preferred.
Strong knowledge of IDEA, FAPE, educational eligibility considerations, and school-based speech-language services.
Experience conducting school-based evaluations and interpreting educational records.
Strong report writing, analytical reasoning, and organizational skills.
Comfort working within forensic, legal, and high-conflict special education environments.
Ability to write objective, comprehensive, and defensible reports supported by data.
Experience with autism, AAC, executive functioning, social communication, adaptive functioning, and complex educational presentations preferred.
Comfort participating in IEP meetings, mediation, and potential due process matters.
About CDA
Cognitive Diagnostic Associates is a multidisciplinary Independent Educational Evaluation practice specializing in forensic special education evaluations across 12 states. CDA conducts comprehensive psychoeducational, speech-language, occupational therapy, behavioral, assistive technology, health, and related evaluations within complex educational matters involving IDEA, FAPE, and educational programming disputes.
To Apply
Please submit your resume, CV, and relevant licenses or certifications to [email protected].
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $45,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Opportunities for advancement
- Professional development assistance
- Work from home
Work Location: Hybrid remote in San Francisco, CA 94111
