BMC Software·Boston, Massachusetts
The Child Life Specialist provides comprehensive services to minimize the negative impact of trauma, illness, and hospitalization for pediatric patients and their families. Responsibilities include offering developmentally appropriate preparation, therapeutic interventions, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to support a family-centered care approach.
This position is a full time clinical coverage within the Pediatric Emergency Department, with additional responsibilities to consults in other areas as needed. The Child Life Specialist ensures that comprehensive services are provided to minimize the negative impact of trauma, illness and hospitalization by addressing the emotional, cognitive, and developmental needs of patients and families throughout the healthcare experience. Join Our Team as a Child Life Specialist - Pediatric Emergency Department Join the Boston Medical Center team and be part of a vibrant and inclusive healthcare community dedicated to making a difference in the lives of our diverse patient population. As the largest safety net hospital in the Northeast, we take pride in our commitment to providing high-quality, accessible care to all. At Boston Medical Center, we foster an inclusive culture that values the unique contributions of every individual, creating a supportive and collaborative work environment. Enjoy the rewards of excellent benefits and generous paid time off as you contribute to our mission of exceptional patient care and community impact. As a Child Life Specialist at Boston Medical Center, you will become an integral part of a renowned healthcare institution dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to the diverse community we serve. Boston Medical Center is not just a workplace; it's a compassionate and inclusive environment that values diversity and fosters professional growth. Our commitment to a family-centered care approach extends beyond medical treatment. Working at Boston Medical Center means being part of a collaborative team that understands the significance of addressing the emotional, cognitive, and developmental needs of our young patients and their families. You will have the opportunity to engage with a wide range of illnesses, diagnoses, and cultures, contributing to a rich and fulfilling professional experience. At Boston Medical Center, we take pride in our strong sense of community and support. Our Child Life Specialists actively participate in program development, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and contribute to a positive and supportive atmosphere for children and families. If you are ready to make a difference in the lives of those we serve, Boston Medical Center welcomes your passion and dedication. Join us in creating a brighter and healthier future for our community. Apply today and be a part of a team that truly cares.
Position: Child Life Specialist-Pediatric Emergency
As a Child Life Specialist in our Pediatric Emergency Department, you will play a vital role in providing comprehensive services to minimize the negative impact of trauma, illness, and hospitalization. Key responsibilities include/but not limited to: Assisting patients and families in coping with illness and hospitalization. Comfort with a diverse range of illnesses, diagnoses, and cultures. Comfort working with developmental ages ranging from infancy through young adulthood. Strong interpersonal skills with flexibility, initiative, and self-motivation. Providing developmentally appropriate preparation and education to patients and families. Collaborating with the interdisciplinary team (s) to support a family-centered care approach. Offering individualized therapeutic interventions to address emotional, cognitive, and developmental needs. Normalizing the environment to reduce the impact of healthcare experiences on development and coping. Providing legacy and bereavement support as needed. Participating in program development for the assigned clinical area. JOB REQUIREMENTS
Baccalaureate degree in child life or a closely related field; Masters degree preferred. Completion of a child life internship (600 hours) under the direct supervision of a certified child life specialist required. Prior work experience in a medical setting as a child life specialist is preferred. Certification as a child life specialist is required within 6 months of hire. Additional Skills: Ability to prioritize, take initiative, exhibit emotional maturity and be self-motivated. Documentation and maintenance of updated patient information. Participation in meetings, patient care rounding, unit meetings, and child life staff meetings. Collaboration with the manager and child life staff on donations, budget for resources, and supply needs. Participation in volunteer and student training, support, and supervision. Adherence to infection control policies set forth by the institution. Preferred strong knowledge of hospital practices, procedures, and medical terminology. Equal Opportunity Employer: BMC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Compensation Range: $53,000.00- $77,000.00 This range offers an estimate based on the minimum job qualifications. However, our approach to determining base pay is comprehensive, and a broad range of factors is considered when making an offer. This includes education, experience, skills, and certifications/licensures as they directly relate to position requirements; as well as business/organizational needs, internal equity, and market-competitiveness. In addition, BMCHS offers generous total compensation that includes, but is not limited to, benefits (medical, dental, vision, pharmacy), discretionary annual bonuses and merit increases, Flexible Spending Accounts, 403(b) savings matches, paid time off, career advancement opportunities, and resources to support employee and family well-being. NOTE: This range is based on Boston-area data, and is subject to modification based on geographic location. Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans According to the FTC, there has been a rise in employment offer scams. Our current job openings are listed on our website and applications are received only through our website. We do not ask or require downloads of any applications, or “apps” job offers are not extended over text messages or social media platforms. We do not ask individuals to purchase equipment for or prior to employment.
Candidates must hold a baccalaureate degree in child life or a closely related field and have completed a 600-hour child life internship. Certification as a child life specialist is required within six months of hire.
Market context
In Massachusetts, child life specialist roles in pediatric emergency settings typically see steady demand because hospitals need support for children and families during acute care visits. These positions are competitive because employers often require a child life degree, a 600-hour internship, and certification within six months of hire. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your internship experience and prepare examples of trauma-informed, family-centered support before applying.
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