Why work at SickKids

Paid time off

We know that time off is important for the well-being of our employees and that’s why we offer options including vacation time, sick time, and float time. Time off depends on a variety of factors including whether you are full-time, part-time, or casual, your years of service, and the type of role. Most permanent full-time employees begin with at least three weeks’ vacation time, two float days and sick time. Employees can reach up to seven weeks of vacation over time.

Workplace flexibility

We recognize that achieving a healthy balance between work and personal lives is important to SickKids employees. We support workplace flexibility with respect to where, how, and when employees work. Depending on your role, hybrid work may be available – check the job posting for details.

Workplace culture

We strive to create an environment where employees feel valued and can thrive as their authentic selves. There is a strong culture of connection and belonging through social events such as our annual staff BBQ, all staff celebration, service recognition celebrations, departmental celebrations, our collaborative workspaces, rooftop patio, as well as virtually through internal news, recognition cards, and our internal photo gallery.

Benefit Plans

You'll qualify for health and dental benefits as of your first day of work, along with your eligible family members. This includes paramedical services like message therapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy - and much more. You can choose your level of coverage under the long-term disability, life insurance and critical illness programs that meets your needs.

Here are just a few of the benefits you may be eligible for throughout your SickKids' journey:

• Prescription drugs coverage
• Vision care
• Mental health care
• Family building program
• Naturopath
• Dietitian

Eligibility and plan details are provided with an employment offer.

Planning for your retirement (SickKids Pension Plan)

It is never too early to start planning for retirement. SickKids recognizes the importance of working towards future financial goals and provides eligible staff with a registered pension plan to assist with the journey towards retirement. Participation in the SickKids pension plan starts on the first day of the month coinciding with or following an eligible staff’s first day of work. The SickKids pension plan has many attractive features, including low staff contributions and retirement options beginning as early as age 55.

Maternity, Parental and Adoption leave top up payments

As a children’s hospital, we know how important it is to spend time with family. We offer eligible staff who are starting or growing their families a top-up payment to their Employment Insurance benefit for a portion of their leave.

It is our expectation that everyone, including staff, patients and visitors involved in hospital activities, will be treated, and will treat others with dignity and respect. Everyone in the workplace has a role to play in ensuring a safe, healthy, secure, and respectful work environment. Learn more about what we’re doing in our Staff Health & Well-being strategy. 

Wellness Centre & Programs

We believe that a healthy team is a happy team, which is why we offer wellness programs designed to support your physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental health. Enjoy 24/7 access to our free onsite fitness centre, along with other resources aimed at helping you thrive both in and outside of work.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a confidential, free, and voluntary service for all staff and anyone living in their household, designed to help develop strategies to manage all of life’s challenges. The program has resources to help with personal or work-related concerns, tensions, or stress before they lead to more serious difficulties. Our EAP offers special services like counselling, work-life services, legal support, financial information, and wellness coaching. 

Peer Support and Trauma Response program

Our in-house program supports staff, students, trainees, and volunteers while raising awareness around mental health and well-being. Peers include staff from across departments within the hospital who receive specialized training. They provide confidential support and outreach to colleagues and facilitate trauma response by providing teams an opportunity to come together and decompress following a traumatic or unsettling event. 

Other perks

In addition to what we've listed, you'll also have access to:

• Registered Education Savings Plan 
• Group home and auto plan 
• Reduced parking rate 
• Discounts on entertainment, hotels, travel, home, and auto insurance and more 
• And many more!