Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this era of digital communication, the role of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) specialists has taken center stage.

As our communication needs evolve, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can develop, enhance, and safeguard our alternative communication strategies.

But let’s delve deeper: What does an AAC specialist really do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the field of augmentative and alternative communication,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we are introducing a flexible AAC specialist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Specialists work to assist individuals with severe speech and language impairments to express themselves, using various forms of communication methods.

They work closely with speech-language pathologists, educators, and families to create individualized communication solutions.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating the communication needs and capabilities of individuals with severe speech or language problems
• Designing and implementing personalized AAC systems including high-tech devices, low-tech tools, or a combination of both
• Providing training to individuals and their communication partners in using AAC strategies and devices
• Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team including speech-language pathologists, teachers, occupational therapists, and psychologists to integrate AAC into everyday life
• Keeping up-to-date with latest research and technologies in the field of AAC
• Maintaining AAC devices and equipment, troubleshooting technical issues as needed
• Documenting and reporting on individual’s progress and adjusting communication strategies as required
• Advocating for the needs and rights of individuals using AAC, providing information and resources to families, schools, and the broader community

 

Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Specialist to help individuals with speech and language impairments communicate effectively.

Your duties will include assessing individuals’ communication needs, designing and implementing AAC strategies, and providing training to individuals and their support teams.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in speech-language pathology, special education, or a related field, with specialized training in AAC.

A compassionate approach, excellent problem-solving skills, and a commitment to improving communication for those with impairments are essential for this role.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate individuals’ communication abilities and needs
• Design and implement AAC strategies that are tailored to individuals’ needs
• Provide training to individuals and their support teams on the use of AAC devices and strategies
• Collaborate with other professionals (e.g., speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists) to ensure a comprehensive approach
• Monitor and adjust AAC strategies as needed to ensure their effectiveness
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of advancements in AAC technology and strategies
• Document and maintain detailed records of individuals’ assessments, strategies, and progress

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an AAC specialist or a similar role
• Degree in Speech-Language Pathology, Special Education, or a related field
• Specialized training or certification in AAC
• Strong understanding of AAC devices and strategies
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to adapt strategies to individuals’ unique needs
• Compassionate approach and strong desire to improve communication for those with impairments
• Excellent communication and training skills

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist
• Work Environment: Clinical setting with options for remote consultations. Travel may be required for assessments and training sessions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Speech-Language Pathology or Special Education.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist Do?

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Specialists are professionals who facilitate communication for individuals with speech or language impairments.

These specialists work across a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices.

AAC Specialists work directly with individuals who have difficulties with verbal communication, using a range of tools and techniques to help them express themselves.

These techniques could be non-verbal, such as using gestures or sign language, or involve the use of specialized devices like speech-generating devices or picture boards.

Their main role is to assess the communication needs of the individual, design and implement AAC strategies tailored to those needs, and provide ongoing training and support to help the individual use these strategies effectively.

AAC Specialists also collaborate with other professionals such as speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and special education teachers to develop a comprehensive communication plan for the individual.

In addition, they may also provide training and education to family members, caregivers, and educators to better support the individual in their communication efforts.

Furthermore, AAC Specialists might be involved in research to develop more effective AAC methods and tools, and they may also participate in advocacy efforts to promote the rights and needs of individuals with communication impairments.

 

Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist Qualifications and Skills

An Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist should have a variety of skills and qualifications that align with their role in assisting individuals with communication disorders, these include:

• Deep understanding of augmentative and alternative communication devices and strategies to help clients with communication problems.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills to connect with clients and their families, build trust and rapport, and handle sensitive situations with empathy and understanding.
• Strong communication skills to effectively convey complex ideas to clients, families, and other professionals, and to listen and understand the needs and goals of the clients.
• Problem-solving abilities to identify appropriate communication strategies and devices that best meet the client’s needs.
• Patience and perseverance, as progress can often be slow and requires consistent reinforcement and practice.
• Technical skills to operate, program, and troubleshoot augmentative and alternative communication devices.
• Knowledge of human development, speech and language disorders, and special education to effectively assist clients of various ages and abilities.
• Teamwork and collaboration skills to work with other professionals such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and special education teachers.
• Continual learning and adapting to keep up-to-date with the latest advancements in augmentative and alternative communication technology.

 

Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Specialists typically require a Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as speech-language pathology, special education, or occupational therapy, along with relevant internship or practicum experiences.

This initial experience often involves working under supervision in a clinical setting, school, or a rehabilitation center.

Candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience are usually considered intermediate AAC specialists.

At this stage, they would have gained hands-on experience in assessing, planning, and implementing AAC interventions for individuals with complex communication needs.

They may also have participated in multidisciplinary teams, helping to develop and monitor AAC strategies.

AAC Specialists with more than 5 years of experience are often considered senior and may have additional responsibilities.

These could include supervising junior staff, conducting research, providing advanced training to others, and leading AAC assessment and intervention planning.

They may also be involved in policy development and advocacy in the field of AAC.

Furthermore, many employers prefer candidates who are certified by recognized bodies such as the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) or Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA).

This certification typically requires a certain amount of professional experience, demonstrating the specialist’s competence and dedication in the field.

 

Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Individuals interested in becoming an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Specialist typically need a bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Speech-Language Pathology or a related field.

An extensive understanding of augmentative and alternative communication systems, including symbol sets, coding techniques, and communication devices, is essential for this role.

Many AAC Specialists also have a master’s degree in Communication Disorders or Speech-Language Pathology.

Some employers may require a doctoral degree, especially for research or university-level teaching positions.

In addition to formal education, practical experience working with individuals who use AAC systems is highly beneficial.

This can be gained through internships, work placements or on-the-job training.

Also, to practice as an AAC Specialist, individuals need to acquire relevant certification.

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) offers a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP), which is often a requirement for this role.

AAC Specialists should also engage in continuous learning to keep up-to-date with the latest developments in AAC technology and techniques, as this field is constantly evolving.

Some professionals also pursue additional qualifications in assistive technology to expand their skills and improve their career prospects.

 

Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist Salary Expectations

An Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist earns an average salary of $75,000 (USD) per year.

The salary can fluctuate depending on factors such as the level of experience, specific education and training, and the geographical location.

 

Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist need?

An Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Specialist should have strong communication and problem-solving skills to create and implement effective communication strategies.

They need a thorough understanding of AAC devices and technology.

They should also have empathy and patience, as they’re working with individuals who have communication difficulties.

Additionally, they should have strong documentation and report-writing skills.

 

Do Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialists need a degree?

Yes, they do.

To become an AAC Specialist, an individual must obtain a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as communication disorders or special education.

Further, they typically need a master’s degree in speech-language pathology, and some positions may require professional certification and licensure.

 

What should you look for in an Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist resume?

When reviewing a resume, look for a degree in speech-language pathology or a related field, and evidence of licensure or certification.

Experience working with individuals who have communication difficulties and familiarity with AAC devices and strategies is also important.

Additional considerations might include a background in special education, experience with various age groups, and strong references.

 

What qualities make a good Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist?

A good AAC Specialist should be patient and empathetic as they often work with individuals who struggle with communication.

They should be innovative and creative to develop unique communication strategies tailored to each individual’s needs.

They need to be detail-oriented to effectively assess an individual’s communication abilities and to track progress.

Good problem-solving skills are also critical in this role to adapt strategies as needed.

 

What are the daily duties of an Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist?

An AAC Specialist typically spends their day assessing clients’ communication abilities, developing and implementing AAC strategies, and documenting progress.

They often collaborate with other professionals, such as occupational therapists and physiotherapists, to ensure a holistic approach to care.

They may also spend time researching the latest AAC devices and strategies, as well as providing training and education to clients, families, and other professionals.

 

Conclusion

And so, we’ve unraveled the tapestry of what it truly means to be an Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist.

Guess what?

It’s not just about facilitating communication.

It’s about orchestrating human connection, one interaction at a time.

With our ready-to-use Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to step up.

But why not go even further?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate guide to creating highly accurate job listings or honing your resume to flawlessness.

Take note:

Every interaction is a piece of a grander narrative.

Let’s craft that story. Together.

How to Become an Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist (Complete Guide)

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