Neonatologist (Per Diem)

US-FL-Lakeland

clinical

Req #: 52225
Type: Neonatologist

Mednax

				Overview:

Neonatologist Opportunity - Help Build a Brand-New NICU in Central Florida

Responsibilities:

Pediatrix(r) Medical Group is seeking an experienced,  Board-Certified Neonatologist for per diem coverage to join our nationally recognized neonatology team at the brand-new Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital, opening summer 2026.

This is a rare opportunity to help shape neonatal care from day one while enjoying the stability, resources, and reputation of Pediatrix-one of the nation's leading physician groups dedicated to maternal and infant care.

About Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital

Set to open in summer 2026, this state-of-the-art facility represents one of Orlando Health's largest investments in Polk County, ensuring long-term access to advanced, compassionate care for the community.

Hospital highlights include:

* 300+ inpatient beds and 69 emergency and observation beds
* 11 operating rooms plus four cardiac and interventional suites
* Robust labor and delivery services, including:
* 8 labor & delivery rooms
* 2 dedicated C-section operating rooms
* 25+ postpartum rooms

* A 12-bed Level II NICU, opening shortly after the hospital debut
* Additional specialty programs

The NICU & Practice Opportunity

This brand-new Level II NICU is designed for growth and supported by an established regional network.

Practice highlights:

* Projected NICU average daily census of 5-6 by year-end
* Newborn nursery ADC of 6-7
* ~2,000 annual deliveries
* Support from Pediatrix's flagship Level IV NICU at Winnie Palmer Hospital (142 beds)
* A collaborative care model with Neonatologists, Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NNPs), and Pediatric Hospitalists
* On-call response time: within 30 minutes

Neonatologist schedule:

* 10 shifts (24-hour) per month

NNP staffing:

* Mix of shifts including both 12- and 24-hour shifts, providing balanced coverage and continuity

This role is ideal for a neonatologist who enjoys clinical variety, values teamwork, and wants to help establish best practices in a new, high-quality program.

Why Lakeland, Florida?

Nestled among nearly 40 lakes in the heart of Central Florida, Lakeland offers a lifestyle that blends charm, culture, and convenience.

* Ideally located between Tampa and Orlando
* Population of just over 100,000, offering vibrancy without overcrowding
* Active downtown, welcoming neighborhoods, and beautiful botanical surroundings
* Home to Florida Southern College, featuring the largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world
* Easy day trips to the Gulf and Atlantic beaches
* Year-round tropical weather

Local highlights you'll love:

* Lakeland is the birthplace of Publix
* Major employers include GEICO
* Host city of Sun 'n Fun, the second-largest airshow in the U.S.
* Detroit Tigers Spring Training takes place here
* Iconic royal swans, descendants of a gift from Queen Elizabeth, grace many of the city's lakes

Join Pediatrix

At Pediatrix, you'll be part of a physician-led organization known for clinical excellence, professional support, and long-term stability. This opportunity combines the excitement of building something new with the strength of a nationally respected neonatology network.

Come help us shape the future of neonatal care in Central Florida-starting summer 2026.

Qualifications:

Board Eligible / Board Certified Neonatologist
			
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