Nutrition Specialist

The position is located in Sells, AZ.

Position Summary

The primary purpose of the Nutrition Specialist is to perform the eligibility certification, provide nutrition and health assessments, select appropriate food packages, and individual education of general nutrition topics. This role also includes breastfeeding promotion and support that is responsive to the identified needs/interests of each participant, identifying the need for individual care plans, referral of participants to other health and social services and provides appropriate follow up to referrals.

The work is normally reviewed upon completion, with occasional spot checks while in process, to ensure accuracy, timeliness and conformance to established standards; major work tasks are covered by instructions or procedures, and unusual situations are referred to a supervisor.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Sets up at mobile WIC clinic sites throughout the Tohono O'odham Nation to provide WIC services.
• Provides nutrition and health assessments that include taking height, weight and hemoglobin samples. Documents assessment information, food package assignment, nutrition counseling and other information for each client and refers high risk clients to the Registered Dietitian.
• Promotes and supports breastfeeding as the norm for infant feeding and provides breastfeeding information while addressing concerns/issues within scope of practice. Refers to Lactation Consultant as needed.
• Assesses each client's nutrition status and provides nutrition counseling that addresses the client's needs using a participant centered method.
• Read and become familiar with all approved nutrition education handouts.
• Assess growth and weight gain; accurately explains to clients in a way that is easily understood.
• Determines client eligibility and certifies/re-certifies clients as needed.
• Refers to health/or social service providers as needed.
• Assists in planning, outreach and participates in community health fairs, activities, and community presentations; sets up and takes down tables, chairs and computer stations and conducts food preparation demonstrations.
• Maintains accurate documentation and statistical reports on activities; enters data for each client; documents client charts and keeps accurate records.
• Make referrals to other agencies as needed.
• Travels to remote areas to provide services to individuals.
• Maintains professional knowledge by attending seminars, educational workshops, classes and conferences; conferring with representatives of contracting agencies and related organizations.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned and contributes to a team effort

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the Tohono O'odham culture, customs, and traditions.
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, tribal laws, regulations and requirements.
• Knowledge of USDA food guidelines and requirements.
• Knowledge of nutritional principles, diet, food selection, and economics.
• Knowledge of safe and sanitary food preparation and storage.
• Knowledge of computers and computer software, internet and computer data entry.
• Knowledge in Stars Manual, Breastfeeding Kardex Manual and breast pump equipment.
• Skill in interacting with clients to effectively educate them on nutrition.
• Skill in developing culturally appropriate teaching materials.
• Skill in public speaking and communication methods and techniques.
• Skill in operating a variety of office equipment, including personal computers, telephone, and calculators.
• Skill in providing superior customer service for both internal and external customers.
• Skill in operating various word-processing, spreadsheets, and database software programs.
• Skill in analyzing problems, projecting consequences, identifying solutions, and implementing recommendations.
• Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.
• Ability to motivate others.
• Ability to maintain privileged confidential information.
• Ability to work independently and meet strict timelines.
• Ability to work extended hours and various work schedules.
• Ability to create and present effective speeches and presentations.
• Ability to exercise independent judgement.
• Ability to travel within the interior/exterior boundaries of the Tohono O'odham Nation.

Minimum Qualifications:

Associate's Degree in Health Education, Nutrition or closely related field and two years' work experience in a nutrition counseling or a health educator field; or an equivalent combination of training, education, and work experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of this position.

Licenses, Certifications, Special Requirements:

• Must possess a current Food Handler's card.
• Must have completed ITCA competency-based training program within sixty (60) days from date of hire.
• Must be willing to attend required college-level Nutrition courses within two (2) years of hire.
• Must complete approved Breastfeeding training within six (6) months of hire.
• Upon recommendation for hire, a criminal background and National FBI check is required to determine suitability for hire, including a 39-month Motor Vehicle Record.
• May require possessing and maintaining a valid driver's license, (no DUIs or major traffic citations within the last three years).
• If required, must meet the Tohono O'odham Nation tribal employer's insurance requirements to receive a driver's permit to operate program vehicles.
• Based on the department's needs, incumbents may be required to demonstrate fluency in both the Tohono O'odham Language and English as a condition of employment.