Child Life Certification from the Association of Child Life Professionals within one year of hire date

This position requires intermittently standing or walking with objects weighing up to 25 pounds; and occasionally lifting, pushing, and/or pulling objects weighing up to or over 50 pounds; sitting at a computer workstation for extended periods of time and performing tasks with repetitive motions (such as typing); working at heights above four feet, and/or in confined spaces. Also involves some job-related travel (less than 10% of time); risk of injury from moving, lifting or positioning patients, equipment, or materials; and exposure to loud noises, temperature extremes, hazardous chemicals and fumes including waste, radiation, burns, cuts/punctures, blood-borne or airborne pathogens, combative/violent people, and animal handling, including carcasses.

Must be able to work days, evenings and/or nights; weekdays and weekends.

The Child Life Specialist will assess, plan, implement, and evaluate psychosocial patient/family needs for patients aged neonatal to 17 years. This position will meet the emotional, developmental and psychosocial needs of patients and families with an emphasis on mastering the challenges of illness, injury and hospitalization while striving to decrease stressful experiences and anxiety. The ideal candidate will have obtained/maintained CL certifications and will align self to opportunities that promote professional development.

The ideal candidate will have experience working with children and families in stressful situations; good communication skills; and an understanding of child life assessment, child development theory, and child life practice.

Bachelor’s Degree in child life, child development, or health related field with child life emphasis.

The University of Kentucky is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce by ensuring all our students, faculty, and staff work in an environment of openness and acceptance. We strive to foster a community where people of all backgrounds, identities, and perspectives can feel secure and welcome. We also value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we strongly encourage veterans, individuals with disabilities, women, and all minorities to consider our employment opportunities.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.