Pediatrician
SOC 29-1221.00 · ESCO 2212 · OSCA 264343
Role snapshot
Overview
Provides comprehensive medical care to infants, children, and adolescents, from birth through young adulthood. This includes diagnosing and treating illnesses, administering vaccinations, conducting regular check-ups, and monitoring developmental milestones. Pediatricians build long-term relationships with families, offering preventative care, health education, and referring to specialists when advanced medical intervention is needed.
Significantly contributes to the health and well-being of children, ensuring proper growth and development, preventing disease, and providing critical care during illness, thereby supporting healthy families and communities.
On the job
- Conduct physical examinations and assess the health of infants, children, and adolescents
- Diagnose and treat a wide range of acute and chronic childhood illnesses and conditions
- Administer immunizations and provide preventative health advice to parents and guardians
- Monitor growth and development, addressing any concerns or delays
- Educate families on nutrition, safety, and healthy lifestyle choices for their children
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
GrowingJob growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.
Education & training
Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree, followed by a pediatric residency program.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Pediatrician
Medical & Clinical
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
social · SIR
Individuals who are highly empathetic, enjoy helping others, and possess a strong drive to investigate and solve complex medical problems in a practical, hands-on environment, tend to excel as pediatricians.
Personality characteristics
Conscientious
Highly organized, responsible, and diligent in patient care, ensuring accuracy in diagnosis and treatment plans.
Empathetic
Deeply compassionate and understanding towards children and their families, fostering trust and providing sensitive care.
Communicative
Comfortable and effective in explaining complex medical information to both children and parents, and collaborating with healthcare teams.
Inquisitive
Possesses a strong desire to investigate symptoms, diagnose conditions, and stay updated on medical advancements and research.
Resilient
Maintains composure and effectiveness under pressure, able to handle medical emergencies and challenging patient situations.
Best for
- Individuals passionate about child health and development, seeking a career with direct, tangible impact.
- Those who thrive in dynamic clinical environments, enjoy problem-solving, and excel at building rapport with diverse families.
- Professionals committed to lifelong learning in medicine and providing compassionate, evidence-based care.
Watch out for
- The role can be emotionally demanding, requiring resilience when dealing with serious illnesses and distressed families.
- Long hours and occasional weekend work are common, especially for those with hospital affiliations or on-call duties.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Pediatrician — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
FREE ASSESSMENT
Does Pediatrician fit you?
Measure your personality and interests, then see how this career ranks against 1,300+ others — for you personally.
Take the free assessment →