Child Life Specialist
Listed on 2026-02-09
-
Healthcare
Psychology, Health Educator, Community Health -
Child Care/Nanny
Psychology
Overview
The Child Life Specialist I, in collaboration with members of the health care team, promotes optimum growth and development of pediatric patients and their families by creating a therapeutic environment which minimizes psychological trauma and promotes mastery of health care experiences. Provides opportunities for expression of feelings through individual and group therapeutic play. Plans interventions in conjunction with the interdisciplinary team.
Provides developmentally appropriate education for children and adolescents prior to medical procedures with materials and language that are age appropriate. Coordinates programming and special events for pediatric patients and their families in Child Life programming spaces. Provides orientation and supervision for Child Life interns and volunteers. Works under the supervision of the Child Life Manager. No supervision over other staff exercised.
- Collaborate with the health care team to support pediatric patients and families.
- Create a therapeutic environment to minimize psychological trauma and promote mastery of health care experiences.
- Provide opportunities for expression of feelings through individual and group therapeutic play.
- Plan and implement developmentally appropriate education for children and adolescents prior to medical procedures.
- Coordinate programming and special events for pediatric patients and families in Child Life spaces.
- Provide orientation and supervision for Child Life interns and volunteers.
- Work under the supervision of the Child Life Manager; no supervision over other staff exercised.
The final salary and offer components are subject to additional approvals based on UC policy. Your placement within the salary range is dependent on a number of factors including work experience and internal equity within this position classification positions represented by a labor union, placement within the salary range will be guided by the collective bargaining agreement. The salary range for this position is $39.45 - $53.32 (Hourly Rate).
To learn more about the benefits of working at UCSF, including total compensation, please visit: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..html
Child Life
Required Qualifications- Bachelor’s degree in Education, Child Life, Child Development or a related field;
Master’s Degree preferred. - Child Life internship under the supervision of a certified Child Life Specialist (600 hours) in a pediatric hospital setting.
- Proof of eligibility for Child Life certification is required; certification preferred. Must be certified within 6 months of hire.
- Must complete CLS I competencies within 6 months of hire:
Environment of Care (Programming);
Assessment - Child Development and Family Systems;
Age Specific Interventions;
Preparation for Medical Treatments and Procedures;
Procedural Support and Coping;
Therapeutic Play;
Documentation and Charting;
Trauma-informed care and cultural reflexivity.
- Master’s Degree preferred.
- One year of paid experience preferred, but not required.
At UCSF Health, our mission of innovative patient care, advanced technology and pioneering research is redefining what’s possible for the patients we serve – a promise we share with the professionals who make up our team. UCSF Health is consistently ranked among the top 10 hospitals nationwide by U.S. News & World Report and is committed to providing a rewarding work experience while delivering the best care.
UCSF emphasizes continuous learning and professional growth.
UCSF is a diverse community committed to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence – our PRIDE values. We are also committed to equity in care and workforce, and to building a diverse, welcoming culture with culturally competent education, discovery, and patient care. More information is available f.edu.
Equal Employment OpportunityThe University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
OrganizationHealth
Job Code and Payroll Title007873 CHILD LIFE SPEC 1 EX
Job CategorySocial Work and Psychology
Bargaining UnitUniversity Professional and Technical Employees - Health Care Professionals Unit (UPTE-HX)
Location and Details- Location:
Oakland, CA - Campus:
Benioff Children’s Hospital - Work Style:
Fully On-Site - Shift: Days
- Shift Length: 8 Hours
- Additional Shift Details:
Monday - Friday
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