Pediatric Child Life Specialist — Family Support & Coping

St. Joseph's Health; Paterson (NJ); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Robust benefits with health, dental,Rx

403b retirement plan with companymatch

PTO and paid holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Employee Assistance Program

Long Term Disability

Life Insurance Options

Onsite Day care Program

Job summary

St. Joseph’s Health, located in Paterson, NJ, seeks a Child Life Specialist to support pediatric patients and families during illness and hospitalization through therapeutic play, education and psychosocial support.

The role collaborates with medical, nursing and interdisciplinary teams to reduce stress and promote a healing environment; requires a Bachelor’s in a related field (Master’s preferred) and CCLS certification with BLS, plus 1–2 years of experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Child Life, Child Development, Psychology or related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
• One to two years experience in Child Life required.
• Certified Child Life Specialist certification required; maintenance of certification required.
• BLS certification required or achieved within 6 months of hire.
• Strong communication skills; ability to educate patients and families.

Responsibilities

• Provide therapeutic play activities, education and psychosocial support to pediatric patients and families.
• Help reduce stress and anxiety related to illness and hospitalization.
• Collaborate with medical, nursing and interdisciplinary teams to normalize the hospital environment.

Skills

Communication skills

CCLS certification

BLS certification

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Child Life, Child Development, Psychology or closely related field

Master's degree preferred

Job description

St. Joseph’s Health, located in Paterson, NJ, seeks a Child Life Specialist to support pediatric patients and families during illness and hospitalization through therapeutic play, education and psychosocial support.

The role collaborates with medical, nursing and interdisciplinary teams to reduce stress and promote a healing environment; requires a Bachelor’s in a related field (Master’s preferred) and CCLS certification with BLS, plus 1–2 years of experience.