Child Life Specialist I

Child Life Specialist I

At BayCare, we are proud to be one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. Our network consists of 16 community-based hospitals, a long-term acute care facility, home health services, outpatient centers, and thousands of physicians. With the support of more than 30,000 team members, we are guided by a forward-thinking philosophy built on trust, dignity, respect, responsibility, and clinical excellence.

About the Role:

The Child Life Specialist is a member of the pediatric healthcare team who focuses on the emotional and developmental needs of children. Through therapeutic and developmentally appropriate play, this role supports children and families in maintaining normal life patterns, minimizing developmental disruption, and reducing psychological stress throughout the healthcare experience.

Your role within the team:

• Implements psychosocially and developmentally supportive programs for hospitalized children and families
• Uses therapeutic and developmental play to help children cope with illness, injury, and treatment
• Interprets children's understanding of diagnosis and treatment through verbal and nonverbal communication
• Advocates for pediatric patients and families and enhances the hospital environment using child development principles
• Promotes continuity of normal life experiences (e.g., school, routines, celebrations) during hospitalization
• Provides guidance and oversight to child life volunteers and students

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Child Life, Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Recreational Therapy, Psychology, or related field (required)
• Internship: Completion of a Child Life Internship under the supervision of a Certified Child Life Specialist (required)
• Certification:
• Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) preferred or must be obtained within 12 months of hire

• Location: St. Joseph's Hospital
• Status: PRN, As Needed
• Shift: Varies
• Weekend Work: Varies
• On Call: no
• How often will this team member be working remotely? Always in person

Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled