Pediatric careers might be of interest to you if you wish to spend time with children and help improve or enrich their lives. From infancy through adulthood, the majority of pediatric specialists work with children in any stage of adolescence. You should be able to locate a profession that matches your interests and skills because there are many career options in pediatrics. If you prefer working with children, you might want to take a look at some of the pediatric careers we discuss in this article.
32 pediatric careers
Check out the following list of pediatric occupations, which is arranged by annual average pay:
1. Babysitter
National average yearly salary: $42,900
Primary responsibilities: When a child’s guardian or parent is not accessible, the babysitter is in charge of providing for the child’s needs. Babysitters in pediatric careers may take care of any young children and carry out responsibilities including cleaning, feeding, and clothing children. Babysitters frequently provide meals and snacks, tidy up after playtime, and give guardians and parents updates about the kid’s actions and conduct when they were looking after them.
2. Physical therapist
National average yearly salary: $82,342
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric physical therapists in pediatric careers aid patients in strengthening and improving their range of motion. They carry out routine movements and assist patients in carrying out tasks that may enhance their range of motion, lessen pain, and build strength. Patients can learn how to avoid injuries with the assistance of a physical therapist.
3. A registered practical nurse (RPN)
National average yearly salary: $48,429
Primary responsibilities: LPN in pediatric careers is accountable for taking the vital signs of individuals, giving basic care to patients, and maintaining records of their duties for other healthcare providers. They ensure that their patients are comfortable and respond to any inquiries patients or their families may have regarding their diagnosis or course of treatment.
4. A nursing aide
National average yearly salary: $35,277
Primary responsibilities: Nursing assistants in pediatric careers assist patients, including kids, with grooming and everyday tasks like washing, walking, and eating. To keep the patient’s space clean and safe, they may sometimes move patients from a certain part of the hospital to another for treatment.
5. A family medicine doctor
National average yearly salary: $224,305
Primary responsibilities: From infants to elderly patients, family medicine physicians in pediatric careers are in charge of providing medical services to people and families at different phases of life. Patients are evaluated, yearly checks are conducted, various maladies, injuries, and illnesses are treated, and patients are given health-related education. Additionally, family medicine doctors oversee their staff of nurses, front-desk employees, nursing assistants, and aides.
6. A pediatric hospitalist
National average yearly salary: $245,225
Primary responsibilities: A pediatric hospitalist is a physician who practices in a hospital. Pediatric physicians in pediatric careers make shared plans with other healthcare experts, treat patients, supervise a team of nurses and nursing aids, diagnose and treat patients, and advise their team and the patient’s guardian on their progress. Pediatric hospitalists may deal with emergencies and closely watch important cases while working in a hospital.
7. A pediatric dentist
National average yearly salary: $236,825
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric dentists in pediatric careers treat children’s teeth, gums, and other oral health issues. They carry out procedures like teeth cleaning, x-rays, cavity filling, tooth extraction, and instruction to their young patients on proper oral hygiene. Pediatric dentists can also help families establish healthy oral hygiene practices and respond to oral emergencies.
8. An OB-GYN (obstetrician-gynecologist)
National average yearly salary: $196,335
Primary responsibilities: An OB-GYN is in charge of treating patients before, during, and after pregnancy. These professionals in pediatric careers keep an eye on a baby’s development, do pregnancy tests and other screenings, and deal with any problems a patient might be having with her pregnancy or women’s health. In addition, OB-GYNs provide patients with advice on reproductive health, menopause, and birth control.
9. A medical technician
National average yearly salary: $33,554
Primary responsibilities: A medical technician’s work includes carrying out tests and laboratories to support physicians in diagnosing kids and other patients. To better understand the symptoms a patient is having, these professionals in pediatric careers may collect blood specimens and samples from bodily fluids as well to test for the existence of germs or other disorders. Doctors might also receive test results from medical technicians, who can assist them in understanding the information.
10. An orthodontist
National average yearly salary: $252,561
Primary responsibilities: Orthodontists in pediatric careers are in charge of recognizing and fixing any problems with the making of a patient’s teeth or jaw. When necessary, they utilize equipment to straighten teeth, check that patients’ jaws are aligned, remove teeth that might be contributing to crowding, and put braces and other materials on a patient’s teeth or in other parts of the mouth to treat any issues. Regardless of any limitations, orthodontists often instruct patients about how to best take care of their teeth.
11. Paramedic
National average yearly salary: $40,300
Primary responsibilities: Paramedics in pediatric careers answer calls regarding emergencies in their locality. They can deliver medication and oxygen, as well as perform medical procedures including CPR, first aid, and wound treatment on patients who are ill or injured. A dispatcher’s instructions must be understood by paramedics for them to quickly reach the emergency scene.
12. Chiropractor
National average yearly salary: $68,988
Primary responsibilities: Chiropractors in pediatric careers are in charge of adjusting their patients to attain optimal health and establish a strong neural, muscular, and skeletal system. They perform physical system assessments, create treatment programs, and could even give patients’ families corrective workouts and stretches to practice in-between visits.
13. Child life professional
National average yearly salary: $53,510
Primary responsibilities: Child life specialists in pediatric careers are in charge of helping kids and their families comprehend the child’s medical condition and treatment strategy. They give advice, confer with other medical professionals, clarify processes, respond to inquiries, and offer patients’ relatives informational resources as well as emotional support. Child life specialists help their patients by exposing them to settings that will enable them to flourish.
14. Ophthalmic assistant
National average yearly salary: $40,865
Primary responsibilities: Ophthalmic technicians in pediatric careers assist an ophthalmologist in doing patient evaluations and thorough eye exams, counseling patients on what to expect while in the clinic, and setting up appointments for the principal physician. They do assessments of eye pressure and vision checks on patients, help them choose glasses and contact lenses according to their prescription, and deal with insurance providers to process claims.
15. Child therapist
National average yearly salary: $104,071
Primary responsibilities: Child psychologists in pediatric careers are an expert in mental health who works with kids to offer therapy and ascertain whether the child requires extra treatment. They identify emotional or developmental problems in children, involve relatives in the child’s care, and offer extra resources as necessary. Additionally, child psychologists may do research in the area and administer diagnostic exams.
16. Social worker
National average yearly salary: $60,061
Primary responsibilities: Social workers in pediatric careers work to enhance the lives of their patients and their families. Together with other healthcare providers, they work to create assistance and treatment plans for patients. They also assist patients in accessing community resources, dealing with emergencies, and creating treatment programs that improve patients’ quality of life.
17. Case manager
National average yearly salary: $38,852
Primary responsibilities: Case managers in pediatric careers must meet with clients along with their loved ones to determine their specific requirements and to analyze their circumstances. They offer families information, look through the patient’s medical background, develop interdisciplinary treatment plans, and routinely reassess a patient’s needs. Case managers take meticulous notes about a patient’s development for the benefit of the entire care team.
18. Pediatrician
National average yearly salary: $225,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatricians in pediatric careers are doctors who specialize in the care of infants, children, and adolescents. They diagnose and treat various medical conditions, provide preventative care, and monitor a child’s growth and development.
19. Pediatric Nurse
National average yearly salary: $67,000 to $93,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric nurses in pediatric careers work closely with pediatricians and provide care to children in various healthcare settings. They administer medication, monitor patients, and educate families about pediatric health.
20. Pediatric Surgeon
National average yearly salary: $400,000 to $500,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric surgeons in pediatric careers specialize in performing surgical procedures on infants, children, and adolescents. They treat a wide range of surgical conditions, such as congenital defects, injuries, and tumors.
21. Pediatric Dentist
National average yearly salary: $150,000 to $200,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric dentists in pediatric careers focus on providing dental care to children and adolescents. They perform routine check-ups, identify and treat oral health issues, and educate children on proper oral hygiene.
22. Pediatric Geneticist
National average yearly salary: $175,000 to $225,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric geneticists in pediatric careers diagnose and manage genetic disorders and conditions in children. They evaluate family medical history, order and interpret genetic tests, and provide counseling to families.
23. Pediatric Occupational Therapist
National average yearly salary: $60,000 to $90,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric occupational therapists in pediatric careers work with children who have physical, developmental, or cognitive disabilities. They help children improve their motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living activities.
24. Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist
National average yearly salary: $60,000 to $80,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric speech-language pathologists in pediatric careers assess and treat communication disorders in children, such as speech delays, language impairments, and swallowing difficulties.
25. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
National average yearly salary: $85,000 to $120,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric nurse practitioners in pediatric careers provide advanced nursing care to children, including conducting physical exams, diagnosing and treating illnesses, and prescribing medications.
26. Pediatric Cardiologist
National average yearly salary: $250,000 and $400,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric cardiologists in pediatric careers specialize in diagnosing and treating heart conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. They perform diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and provide ongoing cardiac care.
27. Pediatric Oncologist
National average yearly salary: $225,000 to $350,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric oncologists in pediatric careers specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in children. They develop treatment plans, administer chemotherapy, and coordinate care with other medical professionals.
28. Pediatric Nutritionist
National average yearly salary: $45,000 to $70,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric nutritionists in pediatric careers provide specialized dietary guidance for infants, children, and adolescents. They assess nutritional needs, create meal plans, and address feeding difficulties.
29. Pediatric Physical Therapist
National average yearly salary: $60,000 to $90,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric physical therapists in pediatric careers help children improve their mobility, strength, and motor skills. They design treatment plans, provide therapeutic exercises, and use various techniques to assist in the physical development of children.
30. Pediatric Respiratory Therapist
National average yearly salary: $55,000 to $75,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric respiratory therapists in pediatric careers specialize in treating respiratory conditions in children, such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, and lung diseases. They administer breathing treatments, monitor lung function, and educate families on managing respiratory conditions.
31. Pediatric Pharmacist
National average yearly salary: $110,000 to $140,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric pharmacists in pediatric careers focus on medication management for children. They ensure the safe and effective use of medications, provide dosage adjustments, and offer counseling to patients and their families.
32. Pediatric Clinical Psychologist
National average yearly salary: $70,000 to $100,000
Primary responsibilities: Pediatric clinical psychologists in pediatric careers specialize in providing psychological assessment and treatment to children with mental health conditions, behavioral issues, and developmental disorders.
Please note that salary ranges can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and work setting.
How to Start a Career in Pediatrics
Starting a career in pediatrics involves several key steps. Here is an elaborate explanation of the process:
Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step is to complete a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as biology, pre-medicine, or a related science discipline. It’s important to maintain a high GPA and take courses that lay a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, physics, and other relevant subjects.
Take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
Aspiring pediatricians must take the MCAT, a standardized exam that assesses knowledge and critical thinking skills in areas such as biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology. Prepare for the exam by utilizing study resources, and practice tests, and possibly consider joining MCAT preparation courses or study groups.
Attend Medical School
After completing the MCAT, the next step is to apply and gain admission to an accredited medical school. Medical school typically involves four years of intensive study, which includes classroom lectures, laboratory work, and clinical rotations. During this period, aspiring pediatricians learn about various medical specialties, including pediatrics, and gain foundational knowledge in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical skills.
Complete Residency Training
Following medical school, graduates must complete a residency program in pediatrics. Residency training in pediatrics typically lasts three years and provides hands-on clinical experience in diagnosing and treating various pediatric conditions. Residents work under the supervision of experienced pediatricians and gain exposure to different subspecialties within pediatrics.
Consider Fellowship Training (optional)
After completing a pediatrics residency, some individuals may choose to pursue further specialization through fellowship training in a specific pediatric subspecialty such as pediatric cardiology, pediatric oncology, or pediatric neurology. Fellowship programs provide additional in-depth training and clinical experience in a particular area of pediatrics.
Obtain Licensure and Certification
Upon completing residency training, aspiring pediatricians must obtain a medical license to practice medicine. Licensure requirements vary by country or state but typically involve passing a licensing exam. Additionally, pediatricians may pursue board certification through the relevant board of pediatrics in their country. Board certification demonstrates a high level of expertise and can enhance career prospects.
Gain Clinical Experience
Building a strong clinical experience is crucial for a successful career in pediatrics. Seek opportunities to work in various pediatric settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or private practices. This hands-on experience allows you to develop practical skills, interact with patients and families, and further refine your medical knowledge and diagnostic abilities.
Network and Build Professional Relationships
Networking is important in any career, and pediatrics is no exception. Attend conferences, seminars, and professional events to connect with other pediatricians, mentors, and potential employers. Join professional organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) or other local or international pediatric associations to access resources, continuing education opportunities, and networking platforms.
Stay Updated with Continuing Education
Pediatrics is a dynamic field, with ongoing advancements in research, treatments, and medical practices. Stay updated with the latest developments by engaging in continuing medical education (CME) activities, attending conferences, reading medical journals, and participating in relevant workshops or webinars. Continuing education ensures you provide the highest standard of care to your patients and maintain your professional competence.
Secure Employment or Establish a Practice
Once you have completed your training and gained sufficient clinical experience, it’s time to secure employment or establish your pediatric practice. Explore job opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and academic institutions, or consider starting a private practice. It may be beneficial to work as part of a team initially to gain further experience and mentorship.
Starting a career in pediatrics requires dedication, hard work, and a genuine passion for working with children. It’s important to maintain a lifelong commitment to learning and providing excellent care to pediatric patients throughout your career.
Skills Needed for a Career in Pediatrics
A career in pediatrics requires a range of skills to effectively care for children and work in a multidisciplinary healthcare environment. Here are key skills needed for a career in pediatrics:
- Medical Knowledge: Pediatricians must possess a strong foundation in medical knowledge, including an understanding of child development, common pediatric diseases, diagnostic techniques, and treatment options. They need to stay updated with the latest medical advancements and evidence-based practices in pediatric care.
- Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential when working with children, parents, and healthcare professionals. Pediatricians should have the ability to explain medical conditions and treatment plans clearly and compassionately, actively listen to patients and families, and address their concerns and questions.
- Empathy and Compassion: Working with children requires a high level of empathy and compassion. Pediatricians must be able to connect with young patients, understand their emotions, and provide comfort and support to both children and their parents or caregivers. Empathy helps create a trusting and caring relationship with patients and their families.
- Patience and Flexibility: Dealing with young patients can sometimes be challenging, as they may not always cooperate or articulate their symptoms clearly. Pediatricians need to exercise patience and adapt their approach to the child’s age, developmental stage, and unique needs. They should be flexible in managing unexpected situations and adjusting treatment plans accordingly.
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Pediatricians must possess strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills to diagnose and treat complex medical conditions in children. They need to analyze symptoms, evaluate test results, and develop appropriate treatment plans. The ability to think quickly and make informed decisions is crucial, especially in emergencies.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Pediatrics often involves working as part of a multidisciplinary team, including nurses, specialists, therapists, and other healthcare professionals. Collaborative skills are vital for effective coordination of care, interdisciplinary consultations, and shared decision-making. Pediatricians should be able to work well in a team environment, respect others’ expertise, and communicate effectively with colleagues.
- Pediatric Assessment Skills: Assessing pediatric patients requires specific skills, such as understanding growth and development milestones, conducting age-appropriate physical examinations, and recognizing signs of normal versus abnormal findings in children. Pediatricians should be proficient in performing detailed pediatric assessments, including neurodevelopmental assessments, and interpreting findings accurately.
- Cultural Competence: Working with diverse patient populations requires cultural competence. Pediatricians should be respectful and sensitive to cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic differences to provide culturally appropriate care. They should be able to communicate effectively with patients from different backgrounds and understand how cultural factors may influence healthcare decisions.
- Time Management and Organizational Skills: Pediatrics often involves managing a high volume of patients, appointments, and documentation. Pediatricians need strong time management and organizational skills to prioritize tasks, manage their schedules efficiently, and maintain accurate medical records. These skills ensure that patients receive timely care and that administrative responsibilities are effectively managed.
- Lifelong Learning: Medicine is an ever-evolving field, and pediatricians must embrace a commitment to lifelong learning. They should be motivated to stay updated with the latest research, attend conferences, engage in continuing medical education (CME), and pursue opportunities for professional growth and development. Continuous learning enables pediatricians to provide the best possible care to their patients.
By cultivating these skills, individuals can excel in their pediatric careers and deliver high-quality care to children and their families.
Conclusion
In conclusion, careers in pediatrics offer a rewarding and fulfilling path for those who have a passion for working with children and promoting their health and well-being. Whether as a pediatrician, nurse, surgeon, or any other pediatric specialty, professionals in this field play a crucial role in the development and care of children. By combining medical knowledge, communication skills, empathy, and critical thinking, pediatric healthcare providers can make a positive impact on the lives of young patients and their families. It is a field that requires continuous learning and collaboration within a multidisciplinary team. Pediatric careers offer the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and contribute to their healthy futures.
Frequently Asked Questions on pediatric careers
- What qualifications do I need to become a pediatrician?
To become a pediatrician, you need to complete a Bachelor’s degree, attend medical school, and complete a residency program in pediatrics. Afterward, you may choose to pursue fellowship training in a specific pediatric subspecialty. Additionally, you need to obtain a medical license and may consider obtaining board certification in pediatrics.
- What skills are important for a career in pediatrics?
Key skills for a career in pediatrics include medical knowledge, effective communication, empathy, patience, critical thinking, teamwork, cultural competence, and organizational skills. These skills enable pediatricians to provide comprehensive care, establish trust with patients and their families, and collaborate effectively with colleagues.
- What are the typical work settings for pediatricians?
Pediatricians can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, academic institutions, and research facilities. They may also be involved in community health programs or work in specialized pediatric centers such as pediatric hospitals or children’s hospitals.
- Are there opportunities for career advancement in pediatrics?
Yes, there are opportunities for career advancement in pediatrics. Pediatricians can pursue further specialization through fellowship training in a specific pediatric subspecialty. They may also choose to become involved in research, teaching, or leadership roles within their healthcare organizations or professional associations.
- What is the job outlook for careers in pediatrics?
The job outlook for careers in pediatrics is generally favorable. The demand for pediatricians and pediatric healthcare providers remains high, as there is a constant need for specialized care for children. However, specific job opportunities may vary depending on factors such as geographic location, population demographics, and healthcare system dynamics. Staying updated with current trends and advancements in pediatrics can enhance career prospects.