Child Life Specialist I

valleychildrens· LE00 Valley Children's Healthcare
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📍 Madera, CAPer Diem💰 USD 29–43
Per DiemLE00 Valley Children's Healthcare

About this role

About Us:

The Child Life Department, comprised of specialists, assistants, a coordinator, and a music therapist, helps children understand and cope with medical experiences. Focusing on developmental needs, Child Life provides education, play and emotional support for patients and their families.  

Child Life Specialists are assigned to cover various areas throughout the hospital. As part of the medical team, Child Life Specialists collaborate with staff within the hospital to help meet the needs of the patient. Some of the services include:  

  • Illness, hospital, and treatment education 

  • Surgery and procedure preparation and support 

  • Therapeutic and recreation play activities 

  • Coordinate special events, entertainment and activities 

  • Grief and bereavement support 

Child Life Assistants oversee the Playroom and George’s Clubhouse which help children do what they do best: play! In these spaces– away from medical tests and procedures – children can enjoy arts, crafts, music, games, reading, movies and video games. The Playroom also hosts events like Bingo, holiday events, music programs, as well as special guests. Bedside activities are available to children unable to come to the Playroom.   

Job Summary:

This position is accountable for the assessment, development, implementation, and evaluation of care plans to provide for the psychosocial, behavioral, recreational, and educational needs of hospitalized and/or outpatient children. The incumbent is accountable for a defined patient population based upon the child's age and developmental needs for a designated period of time.

Qualifications:


Education
  • College Degree - 4 year Child Life or related field of study (required)
  • Masters Degree (preferred)

Licenses and Certifications
  • CCLS - Certified Child Life Specialist - CLCC - Child Life Certification Commission within 12 months of hire or transfer into position (required) Or
  • Other - Other Completion of 600-hour internship prior to start (required)

Skills and Abilities
  • Bilingual Skills Preferred.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Compensation Range:

$29.35 - $42.55

Workshift:

Position Exempt:

No

FTE %:

100

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Daily Hours:

8

Have Questions?

Call Recruitment Services at 559-353-7071 or email us at [email protected]
Disclaimer: Final compensation will be dependent upon skills and experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary for the Child Life Specialist I role at valleychildrens?
The listed salary for this Child Life Specialist I position at valleychildrens is USD 29–43. This is an Per Diem role.
Where is the Child Life Specialist I position at valleychildrens located?
This Child Life Specialist I role at valleychildrens is based in Madera, CA. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Is the Child Life Specialist I role at valleychildrens full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a Per Diem position. It is posted as a Child Life Specialist I role in the LE00 Valley Children's Healthcare department at valleychildrens.
Which team or department does the Child Life Specialist I at valleychildrens belong to?
This Child Life Specialist I position is part of the LE00 Valley Children's Healthcare department at valleychildrens. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Child Life Specialist I position at valleychildrens?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to valleychildrens's official application portal hosted on workday where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Child Life Specialist I job at valleychildrens posted?
This Child Life Specialist I position at valleychildrens was posted on Aug 25, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Child Life Specialist I
valleychildrens · 💰 USD 29–43
Apply for this role ↗

You'll be redirected to valleychildrens's official application page on Workday.