Pediatrics Volunteer

Before You Apply 
To ensure this opportunity is a good fit, please watch our volunteer Pre-Orientation video for essential program information. Review the opportunity description and scheduling details below carefully before submitting your application. 

Hours & Location 

• Location: Main Campus (Main Inpatient Hospital) – 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065 

• Shifts available: Monday to Friday, 9 AM – 6 PM 

• Please indicate all shifts you are available for in your application.
   

Volunteer Opportunity 
The Pediatric Volunteer provides support to our child life and recreation program by providing direct patient interaction and engagement, caregiver respite, facilitation of activities and events, and by helping to maintain a welcoming and organized environment. Applicants must be over 17 years old and have experience working/volunteering with children. This opportunity is only offered in Manhattan from Monday- Friday. Availability on Saturdays and Sundays may be added soon. 

 
As a volunteer, you may: 

• Provide one-on-one patient play and interaction, as well as caregiver respite. 

• Facilitate group activities, games, and programs. 

• Support recreation spaces. 

• Assist with non-clinical tasks such as organizing supplies, preparing activity spaces, restocking resource areas, and cleaning toys following strict infection control protocols to ensure a safe environment. 

• Enhance the patient experience by supporting recreational programs and special events. 

Who We’re Looking For  

• Age 17+ 

• Experience working or volunteering with children. 

• Ability to engage and interact positively with pediatric patients. 

• Strong communication skills with a compassionate, patient-centered approach. 

• Comfortable facilitating activities and events for children. 

• Able to commit to a weekly 3-hour shift for a minimum of 12 months. 

• If you are a former or current MSK patient, you must be out of active treatment for at least one year. 

• Friendly, reliable, and comfortable interacting with patients, families, and staff. 

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to maintain professionalism. 

• Willingness to work collaboratively in a team environment. 

Onboarding Process (average 4–6 weeks)  

• Virtual interview (based on scheduling needs and program fit) 

• 2–3 reference checks 

• Background check & drug screen (18+ only) 

• Medical clearance (flu and other immunizations required; at applicant’s expense) 

*To stay active in the program, onboarding must be completed within 4-6 weeks. If your application is pending any onboarding tasks for 30+ days, your application may be rejected. 

Please Note 
This is an unpaid volunteer role. The Volunteer Department does not oversee paid employment, internships, shadowing, or educational programs. Our program provides meaningful, long-term opportunities to support patients and staff.