Pediatric Intensivist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the complex realm of healthcare, the role of pediatric intensivists has never been more crucial.

As medical advancements propel us forward, the demand for skilled professionals who can provide comprehensive care to critically ill children significantly escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a pediatric intensivist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate aspects of pediatric intensive care,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable pediatric intensivist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Pediatric Intensivist Duties and Responsibilities

Pediatric Intensivists are specialist physicians who provide advanced care to critically ill or injured children.

They utilize their specialized training and skills to manage complex medical conditions and deliver critical care in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU).

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a variety of acute and chronic conditions affecting pediatric patients in the PICU
• Implementing and managing therapies such as advanced life support, mechanical ventilation, dialysis, and other forms of organ support
• Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team including nurses, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, social workers and other specialists to ensure comprehensive care
• Conducting rounds in the PICU, discussing patients’ progress and planning further treatment strategies
• Communicating effectively with patients’ families about their child’s condition, prognosis, and care plan, and addressing any questions or concerns they may have
• Maintaining detailed, accurate, and timely medical records
• Participating in pediatric critical care research and quality improvement initiatives
• Keeping up-to-date with the latest research, guidelines, and best practices in pediatric critical care medicine
• Providing education and training to medical students, residents, and fellows in pediatric critical care
• Participating in ethical discussions and end-of-life decision making

 

Pediatric Intensivist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Pediatric Intensivist to join our team.

The Pediatric Intensivist will be responsible for the diagnosis, treatment, and care of critically ill children, ranging from newborns to teenagers.

This includes being responsible for the medical procedures that occur in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), and coordinating with a team of healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient care.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive care for critically ill pediatric patients including diagnosis, interventions, and treatments
• Monitor the medical condition of patients and adjust treatment plans as necessary
• Perform various medical procedures, such as intubations, central line placements, and other life-saving procedures
• Work closely with a team of healthcare professionals, including nurses, pediatricians, and specialists to provide high-quality patient care
• Communicate effectively with patients’ families to inform them of conditions, treatment options, and progress
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in pediatric intensive care medicine
• Document and maintain accurate patient records
• Adhere to all relevant healthcare regulations and standards

 

Qualifications

• Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from an accredited institution
• Completion of a Pediatric Residency Program
• Board certification in Pediatrics
• Completion of a fellowship in Pediatric Critical Care Medicine
• Valid and active medical license
• Excellent patient management skills
• Strong ability to work under intense pressure
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

 

Benefits

• 401(k) with company match
• Health, vision, and dental insurance
• Professional development and continuing education opportunities
• Generous paid time off (PTO) policy
• Life insurance
• Relocation assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pediatric Intensivist
• Work Environment: Hospital setting, specifically in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). This position involves regular shift work and may require being on-call.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Pediatrics or Medical Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $200,000 minimum to $350,000 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 Pediatric Intensivist Do?

Pediatric Intensivists are specialist medical doctors who primarily work in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of a hospital.

They primarily treat critically ill or injured infants, children, and teenagers.

They work closely with other pediatricians, nurses, and medical professionals to manage the care of their patients.

They are responsible for overseeing the complete critical care treatment, from diagnosis to follow-up.

Their job typically involves administering and managing life-supporting treatments, such as mechanical ventilation, and carrying out invasive procedures.

They also oversee the administration of medications, and they monitor patients’ responses to treatment.

They are responsible for communicating and coordinating with other specialists and healthcare providers involved in the care of the patient.

They also ensure that the patient’s family is informed and comfortable with the care plan.

Pediatric Intensivists are often involved in research and teaching, aiming to improve care and outcomes for critically ill children.

They may also play a role in the development and implementation of critical care policies and procedures within the hospital.

In addition to their medical responsibilities, Pediatric Intensivists may also provide emotional support to families of critically ill children, often working closely with social workers and psychologists.

 

Pediatric Intensivist Qualifications and Skills

A Pediatric Intensivist should have the skills and qualifications that reflect their specialized role in the medical industry, such as:

• Profound knowledge in pediatric intensive care medicine and the ability to apply this knowledge in diagnosing and treating critically ill children.
• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills to make quick decisions in high-stress, life-threatening situations.
• Exceptional communication skills to effectively explain complex medical terms and procedures to parents or guardians, and to collaborate with other medical professionals.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport with patients and their families, helping them feel at ease during difficult times.
• Empathy and patience to deal with children and their families during stressful medical situations.
• Attention to detail and precision to administer the appropriate treatments and medications.
• High level of dexterity for handling specialized medical equipment.
• Ability to manage and lead a team of nurses and other medical staff in a high-pressure environment.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple cases and administrative tasks simultaneously.

 

Pediatric Intensivist Experience Requirements

Pediatric Intensivists typically undergo extensive medical education and training, starting with a bachelor’s degree, followed by a medical degree.

They further specialize in Pediatrics and then Pediatric Critical Care Medicine.

Entry-level Pediatric Intensivists often have at least three years of pediatric residency after medical school, followed by a minimum of three years of fellowship training in Pediatric Critical Care Medicine.

This comprehensive clinical training allows them to handle pediatric intensive care units’ complexities, diagnose various pediatric conditions, and manage the critical care of infants, children, and teenagers.

Candidates with more than 3-5 years of experience as a Pediatric Intensivist usually have a solid foundation in all aspects of pediatric critical care medicine.

They are often competent in handling challenging and critical pediatric cases, performing various procedures, and making important clinical decisions.

Those with more than 10 years of experience in Pediatric Intensive Care might have leadership experience, possibly leading a team of pediatric doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.

These seasoned professionals can also be responsible for training and mentoring new pediatric residents and fellows, contributing to research in the field, and playing a crucial role in policy-making and administration within a hospital setting.

 

Pediatric Intensivist Education and Training Requirements

Pediatric Intensivists, also known as Pediatric Critical Care Specialists, are highly trained physicians who manage the treatment of children with life-threatening illnesses and injuries.

The educational journey to becoming a Pediatric Intensivist is a long one, requiring extensive study and practical training.

They must first earn a bachelor’s degree, usually in a science-related field, before proceeding to complete a four-year medical school program to attain a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree.

Following this, they have to complete a three-year pediatric residency program, which includes training in general pediatrics and provides exposure to a wide range of childhood diseases.

After the pediatric residency, they need to undertake a further three-year fellowship in pediatric critical care, where they gain specialized knowledge and skills to handle critically ill or injured children.

All Pediatric Intensivists must be board certified in general pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) before they can seek certification in pediatric critical care.

These professionals are often required to engage in ongoing education to stay updated with the latest advancements in pediatric critical care.

Some Pediatric Intensivists may also choose to pursue additional training in areas such as pediatric cardiology, neonatology, or pediatric anesthesiology.

 

Pediatric Intensivist Salary Expectations

A Pediatric Intensivist earns an average salary of $240,000 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary significantly depending on factors such as years of experience, specialized training, the location of the practice, and the size and type of the employing hospital or medical center.

 

Pediatric Intensivist Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Pediatric Intensivist need?

Pediatric Intensivists are required to have a medical degree, typically an MD or DO.

They should complete a residency in Pediatrics and further specialized training in pediatric intensive care, often through a fellowship program.

Additionally, they must be board certified in Pediatric Critical Care Medicine.

 

What skills should a Pediatric Intensivist possess?

Pediatric Intensivists should possess strong clinical skills and knowledge of critical care procedures for infants, children, and teenagers.

They should be able to work in a high-stress environment and make quick decisions.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are necessary to interact with patients, parents, and the medical team effectively.

They must also possess empathy, patience, and a strong commitment to patient safety and ethics.

 

What does a typical day look like for a Pediatric Intensivist?

On a typical day, a Pediatric Intensivist might review patient cases, consult with other physicians, carry out procedures, and provide direct patient care.

They would also likely supervise fellows, residents, and other medical staff.

The exact activities can vary greatly depending on the size and type of the intensive care unit where they work.

 

What is the difference between a Pediatrician and a Pediatric Intensivist?

While both professionals work with children, a Pediatrician provides general medical care for children from birth to early adulthood.

A Pediatric Intensivist, on the other hand, specializes in the care of critically ill children, often in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) setting.

The level of care provided by a Pediatric Intensivist is more advanced and specialized than that of a general Pediatrician.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Pediatric Intensivist?

Hiring a Pediatric Intensivist can be challenging due to the advanced level of specialization required for this role.

This field requires extensive training and certification, limiting the number of eligible candidates.

Additionally, the role is demanding and requires commitment to work in high-stress and emotionally challenging environments.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed what it truly means to be a Pediatric Intensivist.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about treating children in intensive care units.

It’s about shaping the future of pediatric care, one patient at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive pediatric intensivist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on this rewarding journey.

But why hold back?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ideal tool for creating impeccable job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every child you treat contributes to a bigger purpose.

Let’s build that future. Together.

How to Become a Pediatric Intensivist (Complete Guide)

The Ultimate Guide: Stress-Free Jobs with Impressive Salaries

The Job Market Titans: The Most Prestigious Careers to Pursue

The Robot Revolution: Surprising Jobs That AI Will Dominate

Living the Laid-Back Life: The Best Low-Stress Jobs Out There