Child Life Specialist, Emergency Department

Overview

A member of the pediatric health care team who focuses on the emotional, social, and developmental needs of pediatric patients and their families. This professional works with children and adolescents across the continuum of care to ease anxiety and stress that accompanies illness, injury, or chronic conditions.

• $5,000 sign‑on bonus
• Up to $5,000 relocation bonus
• Starting base rate: $24.52 per hour

Four ten‑hour shifts per week (12:00 PM‑10:30 PM) with rotating weekend coverage.

• Recognize and address the importance of therapeutic play in helping children master and cope with health care experiences.
• Observe and assess the unique needs of patients and their families to provide tailored support and understanding.
• Prepare children and families for medical procedures.
• Facilitate medical play opportunities for patients and their siblings to support coping skills.
• Assist patients and their families in coping with new diagnosis, chronic illnesses, treatment, hospitalization, and loss.
• Treat children, parents, and team members with dignity and respect.
• Establish relationships with team members and families that reflect the key elements of family‑centered care.
• Function as an effective team member working with multiple departments and volunteers to ensure that individual and collaborative assignments/responsibilities are met.
• Maintain records.
• Meet training requirements on an annual basis.
• In addition to the above job responsibilities, other duties may be assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in Child Life, Child Development, or a related field required.
• Completion of minimum 600‑hour Child Life Internship required.
• None required for experience.
• Child Life Professional Certification within one year of hire required.
• AHA Health Care Provider BLS certification required.
• Physical demands: standing, bending, stooping, 20–50 lb lift/push/pull, exposure to noise, blood/body fluids, and infectious disease.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid Time Off, short‑term and long‑term disability, and retirement savings.
• Health savings plans and flexible spending accounts.
• Certification and education support.
• Generous paid time off.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.  to read more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.