Lactation Consultant

Lactation Consultant

The Lactation Consultant provides evidence-based lactation assessment, education, and support to antepartum, postpartum, and breastfeeding families. This role promotes successful breastfeeding through clinical consultation, caregiver education, and collaboration with the interdisciplinary healthcare team, ensuring compliance with hospital policies, professional standards, and regulatory guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess maternal and infant breastfeeding needs using evidence-based practices
• Develop individualized lactation care plans and provide hands-on breastfeeding support
• Educate patients, families, and caregivers on breastfeeding techniques, milk expression, storage, and common challenges
• Document all consultations, assessments, and interventions accurately in the electronic medical record
• Serve as a clinical resource to nursing staff, providers, and ancillary teams regarding lactation best practices
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and breastfeeding promotion programs
• Support Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) practices, if applicable
• Provide inpatient and/or outpatient lactation consultations
• Participate in staff education and community outreach as assigned

Education

Minimum:

• Associate's Degree in Nursing, Allied Health, or related healthcare field

Preferred:

• Bachelor's Degree in Nursing, Health Sciences, Public Health, or related field

Required Licensure & Certification

• International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) certification required
• Active RN license
• Current CPR/BLS certification
• Minimum of 1–2 years of clinical experience in maternal-child health, postpartum care, NICU, or newborn services
• Demonstrated breastfeeding counseling or lactation support experience

Preferred Experience

• Experience in an acute care hospital or Baby-Friendly designated facility
• Experience providing lactation education in group and one-on-one settings

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of human lactation, infant feeding, and maternal-infant health
• Excellent communication, teaching, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary healthcare team
• Cultural sensitivity and family-centered care approach
• Strong documentation and clinical judgment skills

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and assist patients for extended periods
• Ability to lift, position, and support infants and postpartum patients
• Work environment includes inpatient clinical settings

Compensation: Pay Range: $36.11-$64.00

University of Maryland Medical System is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.