Child Life Researcher Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of child development, the focus on Child Life Researchers has never been more critical.

As our understanding of child psychology and development progresses, the demand for insightful minds who can explore, refine, and protect our knowledge of child life grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Child Life Researcher?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker striving to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complexities of child life research,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Child Life Researcher job description template, crafted for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Child Life Researcher Duties and Responsibilities

Child Life Researchers play a crucial role in helping to understand and enhance the experiences of children in healthcare settings.

Their work often involves interdisciplinary collaboration and the application of various research methodologies.

Child Life Researchers have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Conduct research related to child life, including the impact of hospitalization and medical procedures on children and families
• Design and implement qualitative and quantitative research studies
• Collaborate with other researchers, clinicians, and child life specialists
• Analyze data and interpret results to improve child life services and influence policy
• Present findings to healthcare professionals and the broader scientific community
• Apply for and manage research funding
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals
• Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in child life, pediatric psychology, and related fields
• Teach or provide training to healthcare professionals and students about child life research and its implications
• Advocate for the rights and needs of children in healthcare settings

 

Child Life Researcher Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for an experienced Child Life Researcher to join our team.

The ideal candidate will have a background in child development, psychology, or a related field.

In this role, you will conduct research related to child life and development, analyze data, and produce reports to help improve our understanding of children’s needs and experiences.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on various aspects of child life and development
• Analyze data and interpret findings
• Produce detailed reports on research findings
• Design and implement research studies
• Collaborate with other researchers and professionals in the field
• Stay updated on the latest research and developments in the field of child life
• Present findings at conferences and workshops
• Contribute to the development of policies and programs related to child life

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a researcher in child life, child development, psychology, or a related field
• Strong analytical skills and experience in data analysis
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to design and implement research studies
• Knowledge of child development theories and models
• Experience with statistical software (such as SPSS, R or SAS)
• PhD in Child Development, Psychology or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Child Life Researcher
• Work Environment: Office setting, university or research institute. Some travel may be required for conferences or field research.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Research.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Child Life Researcher Do?

A Child Life Researcher plays an instrumental role in understanding the developmental and psychological needs of children, especially those who are hospitalized or dealing with stressful situations.

They typically work in hospital settings, research institutes, and universities.

They conduct extensive research to understand how illness, injury, and healthcare experiences impact the psychological and emotional wellbeing of children.

They also study the effectiveness of various coping strategies and therapeutic interventions provided by Child Life Specialists.

Their role includes designing research studies, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting the results to advance the field of child life.

They use this data to create evidence-based practices aimed at improving the quality of care and support given to children and their families in healthcare settings.

Child Life Researchers also often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, Child Life Specialists, and educators to disseminate their findings.

They may also publish their research in academic journals or present it at conferences.

In addition, they contribute to the development of training curriculums for Child Life Specialists, incorporating the latest research findings to ensure the most effective methods and approaches are being used.

 

Child Life Researcher Qualifications and Skills

A competent Child Life Researcher must possess a unique blend of qualifications and skills that are tailored to work with and study children, such as:

• Knowledge in child development and psychology to understand and interpret children’s behaviors, emotions, and developmental stages.
• Research skills to design and execute studies, analyze data, and draw conclusions about child life and development.
• Communication skills to effectively share research findings with colleagues, healthcare providers, educators, and parents, and to interact with children in an age-appropriate and understanding manner.
• Empathy and interpersonal skills to establish trust and rapport with children and their families, ensuring their comfort and cooperation during studies.
• Problem-solving skills to address and overcome challenges that may arise during research, including ethical dilemmas, unanticipated results, or difficulties in data collection.
• Critical thinking and analytical skills to interpret data, identify patterns, and make recommendations based on research findings.
• Ability to adhere to ethical guidelines and regulations related to research involving minors, ensuring all research is conducted with the highest respect for child rights and safety.

 

Child Life Researcher Experience Requirements

Child Life Researchers often begin their career journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development, Psychology, or a related field.

Entry-level positions may require at least 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship or part-time role within a child-focused research institute or child life department in hospitals.

Candidates can gain practical experience by working directly with children and families under stress, as these roles help develop the interpersonal and observational skills necessary for this role.

Experience in data collection and analysis is also an important aspect of becoming a Child Life Researcher.

Those with a Master’s degree or PhD in Child Development or a related field are often preferred, and these candidates may have 3 to 5 years of experience conducting clinical or developmental research.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience may have specialized knowledge in a particular area of child development, such as pediatric psychology, childhood education, or pediatric healthcare.

These professionals may also have experience managing research projects or teams, and may be ready to take on leadership roles within a research setting.

Continued education and staying updated with the latest research findings in the field of child development is highly encouraged for growth in this role.

 

Child Life Researcher Education and Training Requirements

Child Life Researchers typically need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in child life, child development, psychology, social work, or a related field.

Courses in areas such as child development, anatomy, psychology, child life, and therapeutic techniques are fundamental parts of these programs.

A Master’s degree in child life, psychology or a related field is preferred and often required for more advanced research positions.

In addition to academic qualifications, completion of an internship in a child life setting under the supervision of a certified child life specialist is often required.

This practical experience provides valuable hands-on training in understanding the impact of illness and injury on children and their families.

Certification as a Child Life Specialist (CCLS) from the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP) is highly recommended for this role.

This requires passing an exam after completing specific education and clinical training requirements.

Continuing education is important in this role to stay abreast of the latest research and developments in the field.

Therefore, participation in professional development activities such as seminars, workshops, and conferences is encouraged.

Strong research, analytical, and observational skills are also essential for a Child Life Researcher.

They must also possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills as they often work with families and healthcare professionals.

 

Child Life Researcher Salary Expectations

A Child Life Researcher earns an average salary of $60,000 (USD) per year.

The earnings can vary depending on experience, specific area of research, educational background, and the location of the job.

 

Child Life Researcher Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Child Life Researcher need?

Child Life Researchers should have a strong understanding of child psychology and development.

They should be able to design and conduct empirical research and analyze data effectively.

Strong communication and writing skills are also important, as they will be required to write research reports and communicate their findings to others.

They should also be compassionate and empathetic, with a strong desire to improve the lives of children.

 

Do Child Life Researchers need a degree?

Yes, a degree is usually required for a Child Life Researcher position.

Most roles require a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development, Psychology, or a related field.

However, many positions prefer candidates with a Master’s degree or Ph.D. in these areas.

 

What should you look for in a Child Life Researcher resume?

A Child Life Researcher’s resume should showcase their educational background in a relevant field and any research experience they have, especially if it is focused on children.

Look for strong analytical skills, experience in data collection and analysis, and proficiency in research software.

Any publications or conference presentations can also be a positive sign of their expertise and commitment to the field.

 

What qualities make a good Child Life Researcher?

A good Child Life Researcher is curious and inquisitive, continually seeking to understand more about child development and behavior.

They should be patient and persistent, as research can often be a slow and meticulous process.

Good researchers are also ethical and responsible, ensuring that their research is conducted in a manner that is respectful and considerate of their young subjects.

 

What are the daily duties of a Child Life Researcher?

A Child Life Researcher might spend their day reviewing literature, designing research studies, collecting and analyzing data, and writing reports.

They may also be involved in applying for research grants, supervising research assistants, and collaborating with other professionals in the field.

Some might also spend time presenting their findings at conferences or contributing to academic publications.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the true essence of being a Child Life Researcher.

Surprised?

It’s not just about analyzing data.

It’s about crafting a better future for children, one research study at a time.

With our comprehensive Child Life Researcher job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why limit yourself?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every research study contributes to a larger mission.

Let’s build that brighter future. Together.

How to Become a Child Life Researcher (Complete Guide)

The Pressure Cooker: A Look Inside the Most Stressful Work Environments!

The Teflon Jobs: Careers Unaffected by Economic Downturns

Calm Career Paths: Where Work Equals Wellness

Satisfying Strides: Careers That Keep You Happy and Motivated