Neonatologist

About Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital

Set to open in summer 2026, this state-of-the-art facility represents one of Orlando Health's largest investments in Polk County, ensuring long-term access to advanced, compassionate care for the community.

• 300+ inpatient beds, 69 emergency and observation beds, 11 operating rooms plus four cardiac and interventional suites
• Robust labor and delivery services, including: 8 labor & delivery rooms, 2 dedicated C-section operating rooms, and 25+ postpartum rooms
• A 12-bed Level II NICU, opening shortly after the hospital debut

The NICU & Practice Opportunity

This brand-new Level II NICU is designed for growth and supported by an established regional network. This role is ideal for a neonatologist who enjoys clinical variety, values teamwork, and wants to help establish best practices in a new, high-quality program.

• Projected NICU average daily census of 5–6 by year-end
• Newborn nursery ADC of 6–7
• ~2,000 annual deliveries
• Support from Pediatrix's flagship Level IV NICU at Winnie Palmer Hospital (142 beds)
• Neonatologist 24-hour in-house staffing model
• Opening as a Level I with 3 neonatologist staffing model, expanding to a 4 neonatologist model when the unit moves to a Level II in the summer/fall of 2026
• Neonatologist schedule: 7-8 in-house shifts (24-hour) per month

Qualifications

• Board Eligible / Board Certified Neonatologist

Why Lakeland, Florida?

Nestled among nearly 40 lakes in the heart of Central Florida, Lakeland offers a lifestyle that blends charm, culture, and convenience. Ideally located between Tampa and Orlando.

• Population of just over 100,000, offering vibrancy without overcrowding
• Active downtown, welcoming neighborhoods, and beautiful botanical surroundings
• Home to Florida Southern College, featuring the largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world
• Easy day trips to the Gulf and Atlantic beaches
• Year-round tropical weather
• Lakeland is the birthplace of Publix
• Major employers include GEICO
• Host city of Sun 'n Fun, the second-largest airshow in the U.S.
• Detroit Tigers Spring Training takes place here
• Iconic royal swans, descendants of a gift from Queen Elizabeth, grace many of the city's lakes

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability, Healthcare FSA, Dependent Care FSA and HSAs
• 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program
• Some benefits are provided at no cost, while others require a cost share between employees and the company
• Employees may also select voluntary plans and pay for these benefits through convenient payroll deductions