Occupational Audiologist in Oklahoma Career Overview

As an Occupational Audiologist, you play a vital role in enhancing the auditory health of individuals in various work environments. Your responsibilities encompass a wide range of activities aimed at preventing, identifying, and managing hearing-related issues, particularly those that may arise from occupational exposure to noise and other auditory hazards.

  • You conduct hearing assessments to evaluate auditory capabilities and determine the presence of hearing loss.
  • You develop and implement hearing conservation programs tailored to specific industries, helping to mitigate the risks posed by occupational noise exposure.
  • You provide education and counsel to employees and employers about the importance of hearing protection and the implications of hearing loss on both personal and professional levels.
  • You collaborate with healthcare professionals, safety officers, and workplace managers to create a safer auditory environment for all employees.
  • Your role encompasses the use of advanced technology, including audiometric testing equipment, to ensure accurate diagnosis and monitoring of auditory health.

Your contributions not only improve individual wellbeing but also enhance workplace productivity by addressing hearing-related issues promptly. The expertise you offer is essential in fostering healthier work environments, which ultimately benefits employees and employers alike.

Occupational Audiologist Salary in Oklahoma

Annual Median: $78,110
Hourly Median: $37.55

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an Occupational Audiologist in Oklahoma

To become an Occupational Audiologist in Oklahoma, you need to pursue the following educational qualifications and training:

  • Bachelor’s Degree:

    • Audiology
    • Communication Sciences and Disorders
    • Closely related fields

  • Master’s or Doctorate Degree:

    • Audiology (Doctor of Audiology, Au.D. preferred)
    • Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology

  • Clinical Training:

    • Complete a clinical externship, which typically takes place in the final year of your doctoral program, providing hands-on experience in a professional setting.

  • Certification:

    • Obtain certification from a recognized body, such as the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) or the American Academy of Audiology (AAA).

  • Specialized Training:

    • Complete additional training or certification as a Hearing Instrument Specialist if you intend to work with hearing aids and assistive devices.

  • Continuing Education:

    • Engage in ongoing education to maintain licensure and stay updated with industry advancements, which is often required in the field.

Best Schools to become a Occupational Audiologist in Oklahoma 2024

#1Cache County

Utah State University

Logan, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,387
Out-of-State Tuition:$23,305
Admission Rate:94%
Graduation Rate:54%
Total Enrollment:27,943
#2Orange County

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL

In-State Tuition:$4,478
Out-of-State Tuition:$19,810
Admission Rate:41%
Graduation Rate:76%
Total Enrollment:68,346
#3McLennan County

Baylor University

Waco, TX

In-State Tuition:$51,738
Out-of-State Tuition:$51,738
Admission Rate:46%
Graduation Rate:81%
Total Enrollment:20,709
#4New York County

New York University

New York, NY

In-State Tuition:$55,384
Out-of-State Tuition:$55,384
Admission Rate:12%
Graduation Rate:87%
Total Enrollment:59,144
#5Hillsborough County

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL

In-State Tuition:$4,559
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,473
Admission Rate:44%
Graduation Rate:74%
Total Enrollment:49,600
#6Fresno County

California State University-Fresno

Fresno, CA

In-State Tuition:$5,742
Out-of-State Tuition:$17,622
Admission Rate:95%
Graduation Rate:56%
Total Enrollment:23,999
Occupational Audiologist Job Description:
  • Assess and treat persons with hearing and related disorders.
  • May fit hearing aids and provide auditory training.
  • May perform research related to hearing problems.

Occupational Audiologist Required Skills and Competencies in Oklahoma

  • Communication Skills: You must be able to convey complex audiological information clearly to patients and their families. Active listening and empathy are essential to understand their needs and concerns.

  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with audiometric equipment and software is vital. You should be able to operate, troubleshoot, and maintain hearing aids and other audiometric devices effectively.

  • Problem-Solving Abilities: You will encounter a variety of audiological challenges. Strong analytical skills will enable you to assess patients’ needs, interpret test results, and recommend appropriate solutions.

  • Attention to Detail: Precision in audiometric testing and hearing aid fittings can significantly influence patient outcomes. You need to be meticulous in all aspects of your work.

  • Patience and Compassion: Working with individuals who may have hearing difficulties requires a high degree of patience and understanding. Your ability to provide compassionate care will greatly enhance the patient experience.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Building rapport with patients, families, and healthcare professionals is essential. You will often work within multidisciplinary teams, requiring strong collaborative skills.

  • Regulatory Knowledge: Understanding and adhering to local and federal regulations regarding audiology practice will be necessary for compliance and ethical standards.

  • Continual Learning: The field of audiology is constantly evolving. A commitment to staying updated on the latest research, trends, and technologies in audiology will be important for your professional growth.

  • Organizational Skills: Managing patient records, scheduling appointments, and maintaining equipment will require strong organizational capabilities to ensure efficient practice operations.

  • Cultural Competence: Being aware of and sensitive to the cultural and linguistic diversity of your patient population will enhance your ability to provide effective care and improve patient outcomes.

Job Duties for Occupational Audiologists

  • Evaluate hearing and balance disorders to determine diagnoses and courses of treatment.

  • Fit, dispense, and repair assistive devices, such as hearing aids.

  • Maintain patient records at all stages, including initial and subsequent evaluation and treatment activities.

Technologies and Skills Used by Occupational Audiologists

Medical software

  • Healthcare common procedure coding system HCPCS
  • eClinicalWorks EHR software

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Reading work related information

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Social

  • Looking for ways to help people
  • Understanding people's reactions

Job Market and Opportunities for Occupational Audiologist in Oklahoma

The job market for Occupational Audiologists in Oklahoma is currently characterized by a steady demand for qualified professionals. Here are key aspects to consider:

  • Demand for Services: There is an increasing recognition of the importance of hearing health, leading to a greater demand for Occupational Audiologists, particularly in environments where occupational hearing conservation is critical. This includes industries like manufacturing, construction, and agriculture, where noise exposure is prevalent.

  • Growth Potential: The field of audiology is experiencing growth as more employers understand the value of preventing hearing loss and improving overall workplace health. Occupational Audiologists play a vital role in developing and implementing hearing conservation programs, which enhances their relevance in various sectors.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Urban Centers: Cities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa are experiencing higher concentrations of healthcare facilities and enterprises, leading to more job openings in audiology-related fields. These urban areas provide a diverse range of opportunities for Occupational Audiologists working in both clinical and industrial settings.
    • Regional Industries: Beyond urban centers, specific regions have industries that consistently require audiologists. For instance, the oil and gas sector often involves environments with significant noise exposure, necessitating audiological services.

  • Collaboration Opportunities: Many Occupational Audiologists find opportunities to collaborate with various professionals, including safety officers, human resource personnel, and medical staff, leading to a well-rounded and fulfilling career.

By considering these factors, you can better navigate the job market and identify potential employment opportunities in Oklahoma as an Occupational Audiologist.

Top Related Careers to Occupational Audiologist 2024

Hearing Aid Specialist
Pediatric Audiologist
Auditory Health Researcher
Hearing Rehabilitation Specialist

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Occupational Audiologist in Oklahoma

  • American Academy of Audiology (AAA)
    Website: www.audiology.org
    The AAA offers a wealth of resources including continuing education, advocacy information, and professional standards for audiologists.

  • American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
    Website: www.asha.org
    ASHA provides resources for audiologists, including research articles, practice guidelines, and information on certification.

  • National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
    Website: www.nidcd.nih.gov
    This institute features resources related to hearing, balance, smell, taste, voice, speech, and language, including health information and research.

  • Oklahoma Academy of Audiology
    Website: www.oklahomaaudiology.org
    The state-specific organization focuses on advancing the practice of audiology in Oklahoma through education and advocacy.

  • Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA)
    Website: www.asha.org/caa
    The CAA is responsible for the accreditation of graduate programs in audiology and speech-language pathology, providing valuable information on accredited programs.

  • American Board of Audiology (ABA)
    Website: www.abaud.org
    ABA offers board certification for audiologists and resources for professional development and continuing education.

  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
    Website: www.osha.gov
    OSHA provides guidelines and resources related to workplace safety, including hearing conservation programs relevant to occupational audiologists.

  • Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA)
    Website: www.hearingloss.org
    HLAA is a nonprofit organization that provides information and resources for individuals with hearing loss, which can be beneficial for audiologists working in community and clinical settings.

  • Texas Academy of Audiology
    Website: www.texasaudiology.org
    Although based in Texas, their resources and events may be beneficial for audiologists practicing in Oklahoma.

  • State of Oklahoma Department of Health - Hearing Health Program
    Website: health.ok.gov
    This state department offers information about public health initiatives related to hearing health and can be a great resource for occupational audiologists.

  • Journals and Publications

These resources provide a foundation for furthering your education, staying updated on industry developments, and connecting with professional organizations in Oklahoma and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Occupational Audiologist in Oklahoma

  • What qualifications do I need to become an Occupational Audiologist in Oklahoma?
    To work as an Occupational Audiologist, you typically need a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree from an accredited program. Additionally, you must hold a state license to practice audiology in Oklahoma.

  • What is the job outlook for Occupational Audiologists in Oklahoma?
    The job outlook for Occupational Audiologists is positive, with a growing demand for audiology services due to an aging population and increased awareness of hearing health.

  • What settings do Occupational Audiologists typically work in?
    Occupational Audiologists can work in various settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private practices, schools, and corporate environments focusing on hearing conservation programs.

  • What are the primary responsibilities of an Occupational Audiologist?
    Your responsibilities may include conducting hearing assessments, fitting and dispensing hearing aids, providing auditory rehabilitation, and advising on hearing protection and noise exposure.

  • Is continuing education required for Occupational Audiologists in Oklahoma?
    Yes, continuing education is required to maintain your license. Audiologists in Oklahoma must complete a specified number of continuing education hours every two years.

  • What salary can I expect as an Occupational Audiologist in Oklahoma?
    Salaries for Occupational Audiologists can vary based on experience, location, and employer, but the average salary typically ranges from $80,000 to $100,000 per year.

  • Are there professional organizations for Occupational Audiologists?
    Yes, organizations such as the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and the American Academy of Audiology (AAA) provide resources, networking, and continuing education opportunities.

  • What skills are essential for success as an Occupational Audiologist?
    Key skills include strong communication and interpersonal abilities, attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a solid understanding of hearing technology and rehabilitation strategies.

  • What type of patients will I work with as an Occupational Audiologist?
    You will work with a diverse range of patients, including children with developmental delays, adults with hearing loss, and patients requiring auditory rehabilitation after injury.

  • Can Occupational Audiologists specialize in specific areas?
    Yes, you may choose to specialize in areas such as pediatric audiology, industrial audiology, or vestibular audiology based on your interests and career goals.