Child Life Specialist

Overview We invite you to join the interdisciplinary care team at UVA Health Children’s as a Child Life Specialist. You’ll be a part of a passionate, dedicated team caring for children and families, where Child Life is essential to care delivery. The role promotes positive coping, reduces anxiety, and fosters resilience for both patients and their families. Compensation Base pay $34.13/hour. The position offers a $5,000 sign‑on bonus and a relocation allowance up to $5,000. Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate’s qualifications, experience, and education. Responsibilities Assess psychosocial needs of pediatric patients and families. Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to advocate for the social, emotional, and developmental needs of patients. Establish therapeutic relationships that promote positive coping, normalize the healthcare environment, and embody patient‑ and family‑centered care principles. Implement individualized care plans and interventions using play, preparation, procedural support, and education. Provide developmentally appropriate education and coping strategies across diagnosis, treatment, hospitalization, and bereavement. Facilitate medical play for patients and siblings. Support families during trauma, crisis, and end‑of‑life situations. Maintain accurate documentation. Participate in departmental quality initiatives. Meet annual training requirements. Precept as needed. Eligible for student shadowing. May supervise practicum students at leadership discretion. Perform other duties as assigned. Minimum Requirements Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in child life, child development, or a related field. Successful completion of a minimum 600‑hour Child Life Clinical Internship under the direct supervision of a Certified Child Life Specialist. Child Life Professional Certification required within one year of hire. American Heart Association (AHA) Health Care Provider BLS Certification required. Physical Demands Job requires standing for prolonged periods, frequently bending/stooping. Proficient communicative, auditory and visual skills; attention to detail and ability to write legibly; ability to lift/push/pull 20–50 lbs. May be exposed to noise, blood/body fluids, and infectious disease. Benefits Comprehensive benefits package: medical, dental, and vision insurance. Paid Time Off, long‑term and short‑term disability, retirement savings. Health Savings Plans and Flexible Spending Accounts. Certification and education support. Generous Paid Time Off. Equal Opportunity Employment The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non‑discrimination and equal opportunity employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr