Child Life Specialist

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia
$24.52, with weekend and evening shift differential
vision insurance, paid time off
United States, Virginia, Charlottesville
1215 Lee Street (Show on map)
Aug 21, 2025
A member of the pediatric health care team who focuses on the emotional, social, and developmental needs of pediatric patients and their families in healthcare settings. This professional works with children and adolescents across the continuum of care to ease the anxiety and stress that accompanies illness, injury, or chronic conditions. Starting Hourly Rate: $24.52, with weekend and evening shift differential $5000 sign on bonus Up to $5000 relocation bonus Working hours: four, ten-hour shifts/ per week (12:00PM-10:30PM) 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. Treats children, parents, and team members with dignity and respect. Establishes relationships with team members and families that reflect the key elements of family-centered care. Functions as an effective team member working with multiple departments and volunteersto ensure that individual and collaborative assignments/responsibilities are met. Maintains records. Meets training requirements on an annual basis. In addition to the above job responsibilities, other duties may be assigned. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Education: Bachelor's degree in Child Life, Child Development, or a related field required. Completion of minimum of 480-hour Child Life Internship required. Experience: None required. Licensure: Child Life Professional Certification within one year of hire required. 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 - 50lbs. May be exposed to noise, blood/body fluids and infectious disease. Position Compensation Range: $18.74 - $37.48 Hourly Benefits Comprehensive Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance Paid Time Off, Long-term and Short-term Disability, Retirement Savings Health Saving Plans, and Flexible Spending Accounts Certification and education support Generous Paid Time Off UVA Health is a world-class Magnet Recognized academic medical center and health system with a level 1 trauma center. 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report "Best Hospitals" guide rates UVA Health University Medical Center as "High Performing" in 5 adult specialties and 14 conditions/procedures. We are one of 70 National Cancer Institute designated cancer centers. UVA Health Children's is named by 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report as the best children's hospital in Virginia with 9 specialties ranked among the best in the nation. Our footprint also encompasses 3 community hospitals and an integrated network of primary and specialty care clinics throughout Charlottesville, Culpeper, Northern Virginia, and beyond.