Child Life Specialist Per Diem

Job Summary

The Child Life Specialist 1 Per Diem is a professional with the skill and knowledge to conduct thorough assessments and implement developmentally and psychosocially appropriate interventions for pediatric patients. The specialist must provide emotional support, reflective listening and maintain therapeutic relationships. The specialist must also provide diagnosis and procedural education to facilitate adjustment to the hospital environment, illness and injury while facilitating coping.

It is necessary to provide family support and patient resources as needed. Supervision of volunteers and practicum students and introductory guidance to the child life interns and fellows as appropriate is also required.

Apply By Date February 14, 2026 at 11:59PM

Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

• Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) or must obtain Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) within 6 months of hire to retain active employee status
• Bachelor's degree in Child Life, Child Development, Psychology or related field
• Knowledge of child development and theory
• Knowledge of appropriate Child Life interventions with patients and families
• Knowledge of Child Life theory and how to apply theory to practice
• Knowledge of medical terminology, diagnosis and procedures
• Ability to effectively communicate with parents, pediatric patients and siblings about social, emotional, developmental and patient education needs
• Knowledge of formal assessments and ability to implement therapeutic interventions
• Ability to document assessments, interventions and plans in medical records
• Ability to work both independently and in an interdisciplinary team setting
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand the English language
• Commitment to excellence in patient care
• Effective interpersonal skills
• Demonstrates accountability and professionalism
• Adapts to change in a positive, professional, and productive manner
• Knowledge of legal implications in clinical practice and documentation
• Knowledge of performance improvement and evidence-based practice
• Basic computer skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Child Development or related field
• Child Life Specialist (CCLS) with one or more years of experience

• 85% - Provides Child Life services to pediatric patients
• 5% - Effectively communicates and interacts with the interprofessional health care team
• 5% - Education, orientation, and program development
• 5% - Stewardship and managing of department resources

The Child Life & Creative Arts Therapy Department works with patients, families, and the medical staff to provide services that meet the unique psychosocial and developmental needs of each child and family. They focus on the emotional well-being of hospitalized children and their families to reduce anxiety and promote coping.

• Salary or Pay Range: $45.72
• Salary Frequency: Hourly
• Salary Grade: 156
• UC
  
  Job Title:
  
  CHILD LIFE SPEC 1 PD
• UC Job Code: 009368
• Number of Positions: 1
• Appointment Type: Staff:
  Per Diem
• Percentage of Time: 20%
• Shift (Work Schedule): 8 to 12 hours, variable days including evenings & weekends
• Location: Main Hospital (HSP
  001) - Sacramento, CA
• Union Representation: HX-Healthcare Professionals
• Benefits Eligible: No
• This position is 100% on-site

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work. For details, see Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees and UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page. If represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California and your union.

Read your contract and learn about collective bargaining at UC: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..html

• High quality and low-cost medical plans to fit your family's needs
• UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
• Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
• Paid…