Child Life Specialist II

Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA); Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) is seeking a Child Life Specialist II who demonstrates knowledge of assessments and interventions appropriate for patients and families. This role involves advocating for family-centered care and providing emotional support to children coping with illness.

The ideal candidate will have experience in a clinical environment, strong knowledge of child development, and excellent communication skills. A Bachelor's degree is required, along with certification from the Child Life Certification Commission.

Qualifications

• 1+ year of experience as a Child Life Specialist required.
• Certified by the Child Life Certification Commission (CLCC).
• Current American Heart Association BLS Healthcare Provider CPR certification required.

Responsibilities

• Collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to support patients and families.
• Provides developmentally appropriate education and emotional support.
• Utilizes therapeutic play and family-centered interventions.

Skills

Knowledge of child development

Excellent communication skills

Emotional resilience

Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Child Life or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

Schedule

Days working variable shifts Sunday‑Saturday.

Position Summary

The Child Life Specialist II demonstrates knowledge of Child Life assessments and interventions appropriate to the age and developmental level of the patients and families served. Actively collaborates with multidisciplinary team to advocate for patient and family needs. Demonstrates a commitment to family‑centered care. The Child Life Specialists are responsible for supporting children and families as they cope with illness, injury, and hospitalization by providing developmentally appropriate education, preparation, and emotional support. They use therapeutic play, expressive activities, and family‑centered interventions to reduce stress, promote coping, and enhance the overall healthcare experience for patients and caregivers.

Minimum Qualifications

1+ year of experience as a Child Life Specialist required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior clinical experience working with children and families in a hospital or medical environment.
• Strong knowledge of child development, family systems, and the psychosocial impact of illness, injury, and hospitalization.
• Experience with therapeutic play, preparation, and procedural support across a range of ages and diagnoses.
• Cultural humility and experience working with diverse populations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including collaboration with interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
• Emotional resilience, flexibility, and the ability to work in high‑acuity or fast‑paced environments.
• Comfort with documentation and use of electronic medical records.
• Bilingual

Education/Licensure/Certification

Bachelor’s degree in Child Life or related field required. Master’s degree preferred. Certified by the Child Life Certification Commission (CLCC) and current American Heart Association BLS Healthcare Provider CPR certification required.