Per Diem Overnight Postpartum Doula

Job Summary
Doulas of San Diego maintains a small pool of Per Diem Overnight Backup Doulas who are available to step in when a primary doula is unable to fulfill a scheduled shift or when a baby arrives earlier than expected. This on-call role is designed for experienced postpartum doulas who value flexibility and want to support families during critical moments in the fourth trimester.

Backup doulas are W-2 part-time per diem employees, meaning they have no guaranteed hours but are called upon as needs arise. When a shift is accepted, the backup doula is expected to provide the same high standard of overnight care that our families expect from Doulas of San Diego, and to communicate detailed shift notes back to the team so continuity of care with the primary doula is maintained.

Overnight shifts run from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM and may be located anywhere within San Diego County. This role is ideal for a skilled doula who thrives in dynamic situations and is comfortable providing excellent care with minimal lead time.

Roles and Responsibilities
Newborn Care

• Provide hands-on newborn care, including feeding support (breast/chestfeeding, bottle-feeding, and pumping guidance), swaddling, diapering, soothing techniques, and safe sleep practices.
• Monitor newborn health and comfort, promptly communicating any concerns.
• Assist with light household tasks related to newborn care, such as preparing bottles, organizing nursery supplies, and tidying to allow parents to rest.

Family Support

• Offer emotional support and reassurance to postpartum parents, helping them feel confident and cared for even in the context of an unexpected shift change.
• Educate families on postpartum recovery, infant care, and self-care strategies as appropriate to the family’s needs and the primary doula’s care plan.
• Uphold the highest standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and cultural sensitivity in every interaction.

Shift Documentation & Communication

• Maintain detailed shift notes throughout the overnight, including feedings, sleep patterns, newborn observations, and any notable moments or concerns.
• Submit a thorough shift summary to the Doulas of San Diego team at the conclusion of each shift, to be shared with the primary doula for continuity of care.
• Communicate any urgent concerns to the on-call administrative contact during or immediately following the shift.

On-Call Availability & Reliability

• Respond promptly when contacted for a shift — backup doulas should be reachable and prepared to accept or decline quickly to allow time for alternate coverage.
• Once a shift is accepted, fulfill it with the same reliability and professionalism expected of all Doulas of San Diego team members.
• Attend a brief onboarding session (1–2 hours, compensated at $20/hour) before joining the active backup pool.

Education and Skills

• Completed postpartum doula training through a reputable organization (proof of completion required; specific certification will be vetted during the hiring process).
• Strong knowledge of evidence-based practices for postpartum recovery, newborn care, and family support.
• Comfortable stepping into a care situation with minimal lead time, adapting quickly to a new family’s home, preferences, and needs.
• Excellent written communication skills for thorough, clear shift documentation.
• Tech proficient with tools including Gmail, Slack, and other apps as applicable (for scheduling, communication, and shift logging).
• Meets professional standards of timeliness, reliability, and communication (prompt responses, consistent follow-through).
• Reliable transportation and the ability to travel up to a 50-mile radius within San Diego County to clients’ homes.
• Strong listening skills, calm in a variety of environments, high adaptability, and commitment to non-biased, culturally sensitive care.
• Physical ability to perform tasks such as lifting infants (up to 20 lbs) and working overnight hours.
• A genuine passion for supporting families in the fourth trimester, with empathy, patience, and a positive attitude.

Licenses & Certifications

• Completed postpartum doula training through a reputable certifying organization (proof of completion required)
• Current CPR/First Aid certification for infants and adults
• Up-to-date flu and TDAP vaccines
• Background check clearance

Compensation

• $35-$40/hour depending on experience

How to Apply
Please complete the application linked on our website's careers page https://www.doulasofsandiego.com/careers. Applications submitted through Indeed will not be considered. Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis.

Doulas of San Diego is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, in compliance with California employment laws.

Pay: $35.00 - $40.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Work Location: In person