School districts rely on a diverse team of licensed professionals to help students learn, communicate, and succeed. While classroom teachers are often the most visible members of a school community, specialists such as School Psychologists, Speech-Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, and Special Education Teachers play equally important roles in supporting student development.
Whether you’re already working in education or looking to transition into a school-based setting, understanding how these specialized careers differ can help you focus your job search and identify opportunities that align with your experience, license, and long-term career goals.
At Burnett Specialists, we partner with an education recruiting organization to help licensed professionals explore school-based opportunities across Texas and throughout the United States.
School Psychologists
School Psychologists help students overcome academic, behavioral, emotional, and social challenges by conducting evaluations, supporting intervention plans, collaborating with educators and families, and helping schools create positive learning environments.
Typical Credentials
- State School Psychologist certification or license
- Educational Specialist (Ed.S.), Master’s, or Doctoral degree (requirements vary by state)
Common Work Settings
- Public schools
- Charter schools
- Special education programs
Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs)
Speech-Language Pathologists assess and treat speech, language, communication, swallowing, and social communication disorders. In school settings, SLPs work closely with students, teachers, and families while participating in Individualized Education Program (IEP) planning.
Typical Credentials
- Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology
- State license
- ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) when required
Common Work Settings
- Public schools
- Charter schools
- Early childhood programs
Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (SLPAs)
Speech-Language Pathology Assistants work under the supervision of licensed SLPs to help implement therapy plans, document student progress, and support daily therapy activities.
Typical Credentials
- SLPA certification or state license (requirements vary)
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree, depending on state regulations
Common Work Settings
- School districts
- Special education programs
- Therapy service providers
Occupational Therapists (OTs)
Occupational Therapists help students develop the skills needed to participate successfully in classroom activities by addressing fine motor development, sensory processing, daily living skills, and adaptive equipment needs.
Typical Credentials
- Master’s or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy
- NBCOT certification
- State OT license
Common Work Settings
- Public schools
- Special education classrooms
- Early intervention programs
Physical Therapists (PTs)
Physical Therapists work with students who have physical disabilities or mobility challenges, helping improve strength, balance, coordination, posture, and functional movement within educational settings.
Typical Credentials
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
- State Physical Therapy license
Common Work Settings
- School districts
- Specialized education programs
- Pediatric education services
Special Education Teachers
Special Education Teachers develop and implement individualized instruction for students with diverse learning needs while collaborating with families, therapists, and school administrators to support student success.
Typical Credentials
- State teaching certification
- Special Education endorsement or certification
Common Work Settings
- Public schools
- Charter schools
- Specialized education programs
Other School-Based Careers
Schools also rely on many other specialized professionals, including:
- Educational Diagnosticians
- Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)
- Teachers of the Deaf
- Teachers of the Visually Impaired
- Audiologists
- Sign Language Interpreters
- Paraprofessionals
- School Social Workers
Why Many Licensed Professionals Choose School-Based Careers
School-based careers offer opportunities to make a meaningful impact while working as part of a collaborative educational team. Depending on the position and employer, professionals may find opportunities that include:
- Travel assignments
- Hybrid positions
- On-site school placements
- Contract opportunities
- Permanent placements
- Full-time schedules
- Part-time opportunities
Availability varies based on client needs, state license requirements, and the academic calendar.
How Burnett Specialists Supports Education Professionals
Burnett Specialists partners with an education recruiting organization to help licensed professionals explore school-based opportunities across Texas and throughout the United States.
Our recruiters work closely with candidates to understand their experience, license attainments, and career goals before connecting them with opportunities that align with their qualifications. Throughout the recruiting process, we provide clear communication, interview preparation, and ongoing support to help candidates navigate available opportunities with confidence.
Whether you’re seeking travel assignments, hybrid opportunities, contract work, or permanent placements, we’re here to help you explore your next career move.
Ready to Explore School-Based Opportunities?
Whether you’re a School Psychologist, Speech-Language Pathologist, Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist, Special Education Teacher, or another licensed education professional, our Education & School-Based Careers program is designed to introduce qualified candidates to a variety of school-based opportunities.
Visit our Education & School-Based Careers page to learn more about the types of positions available through our education recruiting partnership, understand the qualifications commonly required, and see whether this program may be a good fit for your career goals.
