Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Join Our Team as a Child Life Specialist!

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of pediatric patients and their families? As a Child Life Specialist , you will play a vital role in addressing the psychosocial needs of children facing medical challenges. Your expertise in education, preparation, procedural support, and therapeutic play will help reduce stress and empower young patients to cope effectively with their medical experiences.

In this rewarding position, you will also serve as a valuable resource for nursing staff, enhancing their understanding of the psychosocial impacts of hospitalization on children and adolescents. Additionally, you will support families during the initial stages of the grieving process.

Why You Should Apply

Exciting Opportunity: This position qualifies for a sign-on bonus!

Your Responsibilities

• Integrate the chronological age, developmental level, and cultural diversity of patients into your practice.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to meet the needs of patients and families.
• Conduct psychosocial assessments to identify patient and family needs, strengths, and concerns.
• Utilize developmentally appropriate explanations and therapeutic play to communicate medical information.
• Facilitate family involvement and support patients in adjusting to illness and hospitalization.
• Create coping plans and assist during stressful procedures with techniques like guided imagery and deep breathing.
• Provide safe, developmentally appropriate play to normalize the hospital environment.
• Support families through grief and bereavement.
• Document patient information related to Child Life services.
• Assist with pediatric unit programs and community engagement activities.
• Develop educational resources for staff, patients, and the community.
• Participate in training and mentoring students in the Child Life department.
• Oversee the inventory of medical and developmental play items.
• Function as a mandated reporter for child abuse and neglect.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's Degree in Child Development or a related field, including the 10 required courses outlined by the Association of Child Life Professionals.
• Licensure/Certification: Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) within 1 year and Basic Life Support (BLS) within 30 days.
• Skills: Strong communication skills, ability to relate to diverse backgrounds, and a proactive approach to serving patients and team members.

Working Conditions

Join a supportive and inclusive team at Carle Health , where you can thrive in a balanced environment that promotes growth and flexibility. Our healthcare system, based in Urbana, IL, includes eight hospitals and a variety of healthcare businesses, employing nearly 16,600 team members.

Compensation and Benefits

The compensation range for this position is $19.71 - $31.93 per hour , depending on experience, qualifications, and other factors. We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our team members.

About Us

At Carle Health, we believe in finding the job, career, and purpose you were meant for. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our Magnet® designations for nursing care and our innovative educational programs, including the world’s first engineering-based medical school.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families!

Job Tags

Hourly pay, Relocation package,

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