Certified Child Life Specialist for Sickle Cell

Company: Medical University of South Carolina
Location: Charleston
Posted on: April 1, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Summary This is a new and exciting position at our hospital, designed to expand psychosocial services for pediatric patients living with Sickle Cell Disease. The Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) for the Sickle Cell Program will provide dedicated, developmentally appropriate support across both inpatient and outpatient settings. The role focuses on addressing the unique psychosocial, emotional, and developmental needs of this population, including support during painful episodes, frequent hospitalizations, and complex care journeys. A critical component of this role will involve creating and leading a structured transition-to-adult-care program, ensuring patients and families are prepared for long-term success. The Specialist will work closely with the multidisciplinary hematology team, including physicians, nurses, social workers, psychologists, and case managers, to provide patient- and family-centered care throughout the continuum of treatment. Entity Medical University Hospital Authority (MUHA) Worker Type Employee Worker Sub-Type? Regular Cost Center CC000358 CHS - Child Life Pediatrics (SJCH) Pay Rate Type Hourly Pay Grade Health-24 Scheduled Weekly Hours 40 Work Shift Job Description This new role will support patients ages 0-19 years and their families as they live with Sickle Cell Disease. The ideal candidate will have experience with program development, advocacy and work well both independently and with teams. Inpatient Responsibilities ? Provide consistent Child Life coverage to sickle cell patients admitted for acute pain crises, procedures, and other medical needs, throughout the Children's Hospital. Normalize the hospital environment through play, peer interaction, and therapeutic activities. Create and facilitate coping strategies to assist with pain management, extended admissions and overall coping. Outpatient Responsibilities Attend sickle cell clinic visits and outpatient infusions to offer procedural support, education, therapeutic play and activities and continuity of care. Provide diagnosis specific education to patients and families as they move through the life span. Build long-term therapeutic relationships with patients and families by maintaining a consistent presence in the outpatient setting. This role reflects a dedicated investment in the psychosocial care of Sickle Cell patients and their families. It offers an exciting opportunity for leadership, innovation, and growth within a growing Child Life Department. Qualifications: Master's degree in child Life or bachelor's degree with 2 years of work experience in a child life setting. Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) credential required. Familiarity with the needs of children living with sickle cell disease or other chronic illnesses preferred. Experience or interest in transition-to-adult-care initiatives strongly preferred. Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team. Commitment to health equity, pediatric medical emotional safety and trauma-informed care. Additional Job Description Master's degree in child Life or bachelor's degree with 2 years of work experience in a child life setting. Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) credential required. If you like working with energetic enthusiastic individuals, you will enjoy your career with us! The Medical University of South Carolina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. MUSC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, age, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by state laws and/or federal regulations. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment based upon applicable qualifications, merit and business need. Medical University of South Carolina participates in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees. For further information about the E-Verify program, please click here: http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify/employees

Keywords: Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston , Certified Child Life Specialist for Sickle Cell, Healthcare , Charleston, South Carolina