Optimum Audiology is accepting applications for 2 Au.D. Externs in Apple Valley, CA.

Optimum Audiology is now accepting applications for a 4th Year Audiology Externship. This paid opportunity offers comprehensive clinical training, private practice exposure, and a unique chance to make a difference by participating in global & local outreach opportunities. Bonus consideration will be given to bilingual Spanish-speaking applicants.

About Us

At Optimum Audiology, we are committed to improving lives through better hearing. We deliver excellent patient care with compassion and respect. We serve diverse communities and proudly support our Active Duty Servicemembers & Veterans with dedicated services and resources. Visit optimumaudiology.com to learn more. 

We hope to find a motivated extern who aligns with our values and is interested in joining our team after graduation.

Locations

Our primary clinics are located in Apple Valley, California—just 1.5 hours from Los Angeles and 30 minutes from San Bernardino. We also have satellite locations in La Verne and Visalia. Our location provides for easy weekend trips to the nearby mountains, beaches, Las Vegas, Nevada and Arizona.

Why Choose Optimum Audiology?

• Diverse Clinical Experience: Hands-on training in diagnostic and rehabilitative audiology.

• Private Practice Insight: Learn business operations including patient management, marketing, and insurance processes.

• Humanitarian Focus: Participate in global outreach trips and local community service initiatives.

• Mentorship: Benefit from one-on-one guidance, professional development, and networking opportunities.

• Strong Community Ties: Experience a supportive, small-town environment with deep patient relationships.

Clinical Training Includes:

• Comprehensive hearing evaluations
• Tympanometry & acoustic reflex testing
• Otoacoustic emissions
• Pure-tone & speech audiometry
• Vestibular Testing
• Tinnitus evaluations & treatment
• Hearing aid evaluations & fittings
• Newborn hearing screenings
• Cerumen removal
• Practice management training
• Verifit2 real ear measures & electroacoustic analysis
• CounselEAR database use
• Full externship mentoring with increasing independence
• Business operations: COGS, pricing, and contracting

Who Should Apply?

We’re seeking two driven, compassionate students with strong communication skills and a desire to make a difference. You’ll be involved in services supporting veterans, military contracts, schools, and local civic organizations. If you’re curious about launching your own private practice, this externship will provide foundational knowledge and inspiration.

Meet Your Mentor

Kristi Mendoza, Au.D., is a private practice owner who brings over 35 years of experience and a heart for both patients and students. She has supervised more than 30 audiologists and externs and is passionate about your growth, both professionally and personally, throughout your externship.

More insights

The anticipated start date is Summer 2027 (TBD based on school program dates), with an anticipated end date of Summer 2028 (TBD based on school program dates). This is a full-time position. The annual stipend is $52,000.

Benefits

• Paid Externship: $1,000 per week, plus possible Student Loan assistance
• Vacation Time: 10 paid vacation days (Available after 90 days)
• Sick Leave: 5 paid sick days (Available after 90 days)
• Paid Holidays: 6 major holidays observed
• Health Insurance: Coverage offered during the externship year as needed (Available after 90 days)

We are looking for two students. This is a great opportunity for individuals interested in sharing living expenses. The cost of living in Apple Valley, CA, is lower than in many other areas of Southern California, providing a more affordable option for students during their externship year. Spanish-speaking candidates are preferred; however, non-Spanish-speaking applicants will still be considered.

This site currently has 3 staff audiologist, one CH-AP certified professional, and one provider with CCC-A certification.

Populations Served:

• School-aged
• Developmental disabilities
• Adult
• Geriatric

Interprofessional and Collaborative Practice Experiences:

• Working with Speech and Language Pathology – Optimum Speech
• Private Practice & Business Ownership
• Working with family members

Demographics of Populations Served:

Optimum Audiology proudly serves a diverse patient population across a wide range of ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. We are committed to providing compassionate care and five-star service to every patient while expanding access to high-quality hearing healthcare in underserved and under-resourced communities. This is the heart of Optimum Audiology.

Application Details

We follow the ACEN Externship Timeline. Please submit your:

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Three Letters of Recommendation

Email materials to: chris@optimumaudiology.com Contact Phone: 951-233-7046 Office Phone: 760-503-1700

Populations Served = A, DEV, E, P, S

Experiences = D, E, HA, T