Position: Child Life Specialist – ED/Surgery

Location: Bronson Battle Creek (BBC)
Employment Type: Full Time (40 hours/week)
Shift: First Shift
Job ID: JOB37588
Sign-On Bonus: Up to $1,000 (External Candidates Only)
Retention Bonus: $1,000 (External Candidates Only)

Position Summary

The Child Life Specialist supports children, adolescents, and their families through the emotional challenges of hospitalization and medical treatment in the ED and Surgical units. This role promotes healthy development and coping by using therapeutic play, education, and emotional support, with the goal of reducing trauma and enhancing the patient and family experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare patients and families for medical procedures through education and support.

• Provide therapeutic play and maintain a safe, engaging environment for development.

• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to deliver holistic, patient-centered care.

• Mentor and supervise students and volunteers involved in the Child Life Program.

• Assess, document, and communicate developmental and psychosocial patient data.

• Develop interactive materials such as bulletin boards and age-appropriate activities.

Work Environment:

• Fast-paced, team-oriented hospital setting.

• Requires multitasking, frequent communication, and collaboration with care teams.

Physical Demands:

• Frequent standing/walking and occasional light lifting (up to 20 lbs).

• Involves supporting patient movement and use of computers for documentation (up to 40% of the time).

Requirements

Education & Certification:

• Bachelor’s degree in Child Life, Child Development, Education, or related field.

• Completion of an internship supervised by a Certified Child Life Specialist.

• Eligibility for Child Life Certification upon hire.

• Certification through the Child Life Certification Commission (CLCC) within 18 months of hire (minimum two attempts required within the first year).

Skills & Experience:

• Proficient in computer use and electronic health record (EHR) systems.

• Knowledge of pediatric medical terminology, diagnoses, and procedures.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Demonstrated customer service, empathy, and emotional intelligence.

• Effective problem-solving and critical thinking in high-stress situations.

• Ability to maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and sensitivity with patients and families.