Child Life Specialist

St. Joseph's Health; Paterson (NJ); On-site; USD 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in healthcare is seeking a compassionate Child Life Specialist to join their team. This entry-level position focuses on alleviating the stress and anxiety of pediatric patients and their families during hospital stays. The role involves using therapeutic play and education to provide psychosocial support, working closely with a dedicated medical team. If you are passionate about child development and have a strong commitment to patient care, this opportunity offers a chance to make a meaningful impact in a respected healthcare organization known for its excellence and compassion.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of child development theories and principles.
• Certified Child Life Specialist certification required.

Responsibilities

• Reduce stress for pediatric patients through therapeutic play activities.
• Collaborate with medical teams to support families during hospitalization.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Child Life

Master’s degree in Child Life

Job description

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Job Description

Responsible for reducing the stress and anxiety created by illness and hospitalization for pediatric patients and families. Assists pediatric patients and families with coping during the hospital stay and/or illness through therapeutic play activities, education, and psychosocial support. Works collaboratively with the medical, nursing, and interdisciplinary team by playing a vital role in normalizing the hospital environment.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of theories, principles, and concepts normally acquired through a Bachelor’s degree in Child Life, Child Development, Psychology, or a closely related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• One to two years of prior experience in Child Life required.
• Certified Child Life Specialist certification through the Association for Child Life Professionals and ongoing maintenance of certification required.
• BLS (Basic Life Support) certification required or achieved within 6 months of hire.
• Analytical ability to resolve complex problems using scientific, mathematical, or technical principles.
• Ability to educate patients and their families, demonstrating strong communication skills.

Effective January 2019, St. Joseph’s Health requires all employee certifications for BLS, ACLS, and PALS to be granted through the American Heart Association.

About Us

St. Joseph’s Health is recognized for the expertise and compassion of its highly skilled and responsive staff. The organization’s outstanding physicians, nurses, and professional staff have made us one of the most respected healthcare organizations in the state, the largest employer in Passaic County, and one of the nation’s “100 Best Places to Work in Health Care”.

About The Team

St. Joseph’s University Medical Center is an academic tertiary care medical center and state-designated trauma center, located on the Paterson campus, accepting referrals of complex cases from other hospitals. It offers a full range of specialty and subspecialty services including pediatrics.

Additional Details

• Seniority level: Entry level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Other
• Industries: Hospitals and Health Care