LACTATION SPECIALIST

Arkansas Department of Health

4815 W Markham Street

Little Rock, AR 72205

Position Number: 22104943

County: Hot Spring City: Malvern

Posting End Date: 10/08/26

Anticipated Starting Salary: $43,088.03
Division of Health Advancement – WIC Breastfeeding

*CLASSIFIED AS A SAFETY SENSITIVE POSITION*

Additional Preferences:

This position will serve as a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program.

Occasional in-state travel may be required. Applicants must have a valid Arkansas Driver’s License. Reliable transportation and proof of vehicle insurance are required.

Applicants must have successfully breastfed one (1) infant for at least six (6) months.

Applicants must be or must have been a WIC participant in any state, territory, or Intertribal location.

Applicants must be available to work outside of the usual clinic hours and locations.

Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) certification is preferred.

Hiring Official: K. Fuller

The mission of the Department of Health is to protect and improve the health and well-being of all Arkansans.

Position Information

Job Series: Health Trades

Classification: Lactation Specialist – Independent

Class Code: THT03I

Pay Grade: SGS04

Salary Range: $43,088 - $63,770

Job Summary

The Lactation Specialist provides expert guidance, education, and support to breastfeeding individuals and their families within a state government healthcare facility, public health clinic, or maternal health program. This position involves assessing lactation needs, developing feeding plans, assisting with breastfeeding techniques, and providing evidence-based education to promote maternal and infant health.

Primary Responsibilities

Assess breastfeeding challenges and provide solutions for latch issues, milk supply concerns, nipple pain, engorgement, and pumping techniques. Educate patients on proper positioning, feeding schedules, and best practices for successful breastfeeding. Provide guidance on breastfeeding after returning to work, pumping, and storing breast milk. Support high-risk populations, including premature infants, mothers with medical conditions, and those experiencing breastfeeding complications. Maintain accurate patient records and document lactation assessments, interventions, and progress notes. Ensure compliance with Arkansas Department of Health regulations, HIPAA, and state and federal breastfeeding policies.

Knowledge and Skills

Expertise in breastfeeding techniques, infant nutrition, and lactation management. Ability to evaluate breastfeeding difficulties and develop personalized feeding plans. Strong skills in teaching, coaching, and providing emotional support to parents and caregivers. Ability to use electronic health records (EHR), virtual consultation tools, and educational platforms.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or GED required, plus at least one (1) year of lactation support experience in a hospital, clinic, public health, or maternal health setting.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.