Audiologist Job Description

The Audiologist Job Description includes working with people who have hearing, balance, and related ear problems. Using technology and computers they provide essential hearing services in a variety of settings including research, manufacturing, industry and private practice. 

The audiologist job description includes assisting with treating hearing loss and other issues.  They work with other healthcare professionals.  Part of this treatment may include the fitting, testing and supplying of hearing aids to hearing impaired clients. 

The job can include working with special populations such as children born with hearing impairment or the elderly.  Most audiologists work with all segments of the hearing impaired and those with hearing loss as part of their job description.

Audiologist Job Description Working Conditions

Audiologists usually work at a desk or table in clean, comfortable surroundings. The job is not physically demanding but does require attention to detail and intense concentration. The emotional needs of patients and their families may be demanding. Most full-time audiologists work about 40 hours per week, which may include weekends and evenings to meet the needs of patients. Some work part time. Those who work on a contract basis may spend a substantial amount of time traveling between facilities.

Training and Qualifications - what you have to do to be an Audiologist

Formal education and training requirements for audiologists includes a Masters degree from an accredited college. Many states require a Doctorate in Audiology as the minimum standard.  Specialty certification requires an additional training module and a minimum number of hours practicing as an Audiologist.  A standardized exam is also part of the process.

Licensing and Credentialing

In 49 states Audiologist's are regulated. The usual method to be a credentialed and licensed Audiologist is:
1) Possess the amount of training and/or a degree from an accredited school.
2) Pass a national exam
3) Apply for licensure in the state you wish to practice in.

Significant Points

• Employment growth will be spurred by the expanding population in older age groups that are prone to medical conditions that result in hearing problems.
• More than half worked in health care facilities; many others were employed by educational services.
• A master’s degree in audiology has been the standard credential; however, a clinical doctoral degree is becoming more common for new entrants and is expected to become the new standard for the profession.

Advancement - chances for promotion

The total numbers of audiologists are small compared to other healthcare occupations.  In a traditional supply and demand model this would lead to higher wages and increased opportunity.  Due to reimbursement issues and the ability to hire lower paid technicians in this area the job outlook for this profession is not as rosy as most.  More opportunity exists in the private practice arena. 

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Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-07 Edition, Audiologists, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos085.htm