Pediatrix® 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.

Board Eligible / Board Certified Neonatologist