If you’re preparing to seek an audiology externship, compensation is likely top of mind. Between student loans and living expenses, securing a paid externship can offer significant financial relief while providing essential clinical experience.
Here’s what you can expect from the current market, along with tips to navigate the search for a paid externship.
The Current Landscape of Audiology Externship Salaries
Audiology externships vary widely in terms of compensation. While some are unpaid, there are many paid opportunities available, particularly in private audiology practices and ENT clinics.
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Salary Ranges
- Paid externships typically offer compensation ranging from minimum wage to around $45,000 per year, depending on the location, type of practice, and funding.
- The American Academy of Audiology (AAA) emphasizes that a 12-month externship is the recommended final year of a Doctor of Audiology (AuD) program, and many practices recognize the value of compensating externs for their work.
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Trends in Externship Pay
- Private Audiology Practices and ENT Clinics: Many private practices and ENT clinics offer paid externships as they rely on externs to provide valuable support in patient care.
- Geographic Variations: Compensation often depends on location, with less saturated or rural areas being more likely to offer paid externships.
- University Clinics and Hospitals: These institutions may also offer stipends or paid roles, depending on their funding.
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Tax Implications
- Paid externs may be classified as W-2 employees (taxes withheld) or 1099 contractors (responsible for self-employment taxes).
- Be sure to review your employment classification and set aside funds for taxes if you’re paid as a contractor.
How to Maximize Your Chances of Securing a Paid Externship
- Target Private Practices and ENT Clinics
Many private audiology practices and ENT clinics value externs and are willing to offer competitive compensation. These settings often provide hands-on experience and exposure to a wide range of audiology services, making them excellent options for externs. - Be Open to Relocation
Paid externships are often more readily available in areas with less competition or in practices looking to attract top talent. Consider exploring opportunities outside of highly desirable urban locations to improve your chances of finding a paid position. -
Leverage Professional Networks
- Join professional organizations like the American Academy of Audiology (AAA) to access externship directories and resources.
- Attend conferences, webinars, and networking events to connect directly with audiology practice owners and hiring managers.
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Highlight Your Value
- Tailor your applications to showcase your clinical skills, academic achievements, and enthusiasm for the field.
- Demonstrate how you can contribute to the practice during your externship.
Important Considerations for Externship Candidates
- Balancing Pay with Opportunity
While securing a paid externship is ideal, unpaid externships can still offer immense value in terms of networking, skill-building, and professional development. If you accept an unpaid role, consider the long-term benefits it may provide for your career. -
Looking Beyond Salary
Compensation is important, but externships can offer additional benefits such as:- Mentorship from experienced audiologists.
- Exposure to diverse patient populations and advanced equipment.
- Networking opportunities that could lead to future job offers.
- Planning for Taxes
If paid as a 1099 contractor, set aside a portion of your income for self-employment taxes. Tools like tax calculators or consultation with a tax professional can help you stay prepared.
Conclusion
The audiology externship landscape offers a mix of paid and unpaid opportunities, with many private practices and ENT clinics leading the way in compensating externs. By focusing on your skills, being open to relocation, and leveraging professional networks, you can improve your chances of securing a paid role that aligns with your career goals.
Externships are a stepping stone to a fulfilling career in audiology. Whether paid or unpaid, they provide invaluable experience, connections, and skills that will serve you well in your future endeavors.
If you’re ready to explore externship opportunities or need guidance on finding the right fit, Staffing Proxy is here to help. Contact us today to take the next step in your audiology career!
