Child Life Specialist

About the role

UVA Health Children’s is seeking a Child Life Specialist to join its interdisciplinary care team. The specialist supports the social, emotional, and developmental needs of pediatric patients and families through therapeutic play, age‑appropriate education, and emotional support, helping children understand and cope with medical procedures, hospitalization, and illness. The role promotes positive coping, reduces anxiety, and fosters resilience.

Responsibilities

• Assess the psychosocial needs of pediatric patients and families.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to advocate for social, emotional, and developmental needs.
• Establish therapeutic relationships that promote positive coping and embody patient‑and‑family‑centered care.
• Implement individualized care plans 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 and may supervise practicum students at leadership discretion.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Child Life, Child Development, or a related field.
• Successful completion of a minimum 600‑hour Child Life Clinical Internship under 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.

Physical Demands

• Standing for prolonged periods; frequent bending/stooping.
• Proficient communicative, auditory, and visual skills; attention to detail and ability to write legibly.
• Ability to lift/push/pull 20–50 lb.
• Potential exposure to noise, blood/body fluids, and infectious disease.

Pay

• Base pay rate: $34.13 per hour.
• Pay range: $34.14 – $36.54 hourly, determined by qualifications, experience, and education.
• $5,000 sign‑on bonus for external candidates.
• $5,000 relocation assistance for moves greater than 60 miles.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off, long‑term and short‑term disability, and retirement savings options.
• Health Savings Plans and Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Certification and education support.
• Generous paid time off.