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Pediatric Social Work Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wolfson Children's Hospital is seeking an experienced and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Work Manager to oversee our Pediatric Social Work team. This manager will lead a dedicated team ...

$63K - $85K/yr

Documents social work activity in the patient's medical record utilizing the pediatric, psychosocial assessment and progress notes per SWD policy * Participates in activities of the Social Work ...

This Pediatric Social Worker will cover our General Pediatrics units overnight Monday through Friday. Ensures that high-quality, comprehensive social work services are provided which support health ...

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Pediatric Social Work information

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How much do pediatric social work jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for pediatric social work in the United States is $38.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.61 and $46.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is pediatric social work?

Pediatric social work is a specialized field within social work that focuses on supporting children and their families who are dealing with medical, emotional, or social challenges. Pediatric social workers often work in hospitals, clinics, or community organizations, helping young patients cope with illness, trauma, or family issues. They provide counseling, connect families with resources, and collaborate with healthcare teams to ensure children's overall well-being. Their goal is to help children achieve the best possible outcomes by addressing both their emotional and practical needs.

What is the difference between Pediatric Social Work vs Child Life Specialist?

AspectPediatric Social WorkChild Life Specialist
Required CredentialsMaster's in Social Work (MSW), state licensureBachelor's or Master's in Child Life, certification (CCLS)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community agenciesHospitals, pediatric units, outpatient settings
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, social servicesHealthcare, pediatric care
Primary FocusProviding emotional support, counseling, resource linkagePreparing children for medical procedures, emotional support, education

While both Pediatric Social Workers and Child Life Specialists work in pediatric healthcare settings, Pediatric Social Workers focus on counseling, resource connection, and emotional support for children and families. Child Life Specialists primarily prepare children for medical procedures and help reduce anxiety through education and play. Both roles are vital for holistic pediatric care but differ in their specific training and daily responsibilities.

What are some common challenges pediatric social workers face when supporting children and their families in healthcare settings?

Pediatric social workers often navigate emotionally charged situations, such as helping families cope with a child's serious illness or hospitalization. They regularly address complex family dynamics, coordinate with medical teams, and advocate for the child's best interests while balancing the needs of parents and guardians. Additionally, they may encounter barriers to resources or services, requiring creative problem-solving and strong communication skills. Building trust with children and families, especially during crises, is both a challenge and a key part of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pediatric social worker, and why are they important?

To excel as a Pediatric Social Worker, you need a degree in social work (often an MSW), state licensure, and specialized knowledge of child development and family systems. Familiarity with case management software, electronic health records (EHRs), and child welfare regulations is typically required. Strong communication, cultural sensitivity, and emotional resilience help build trust with children and families while navigating difficult situations. These skills ensure effective support, advocacy, and intervention for young clients facing medical, emotional, or social challenges.
More about Pediatric Social Work jobs
What cities are hiring for Pediatric Social Work jobs? Cities with the most Pediatric Social Work job openings:
What states have the most Pediatric Social Work jobs? States with the most job openings for Pediatric Social Work jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Pediatric Social Work jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Pediatric Social Work jobs are:
Infographic showing various Pediatric Social Work job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,462 per year, or $38.7 per hour.

Manager, Pediatric Social Work and Grief Support

Hospice of Michigan

Southfield, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:    The Manager, Pediatric Social Work and Grief Support is responsible for the coordination, planning, and day-to-day supervision of pediatric hospice clinical services provided by the social work and spiritual care staff in compliance with all regulatory standards and agency policies.