Breastfeeding Peer Counselor-WIC

WIC Clinic Breastfeeding Peer Counselor

A Women Infants and Children (WIC) Breastfeeding Peer Counselor is a paraprofessional support person who gives basic breastfeeding information and encouragement to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers with the goal of increasing the breastfeeding rates.

SCHEDULE: Variable shifts ranging from 4-8 hours are available with up to 30 hours per week.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Provide basic breastfeeding information and support to new mothers by telephone or face-to-face meetings
• Assist in breast pump issuance and return of breast pump
• Follow up and tracking of participants who are breastfeeding
• Assisting with prenatal classes and breastfeeding support groups
• Keep accurate records and refer clients appropriately
• Ability to work up to 30 hours per week
• Has a work cell phone and is willing to make calls from home as needed
• Has reliable transportation
• Bilingual/Spanish a plus

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Mothers who possess a High School diploma or GED
• Mothers who are receiving or have received WIC services
• Mothers who have successfully breastfed one baby for at least six months
• Must have a valid driver's license and auto insurance with minimum coverage of: $100,000 bodily injury (per person), $300,000 bodily injury (per accident), $100,000 property damage
• Clearance of background check and drug screen.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Must possess good communication skills
• Be enthusiastic about breastfeeding and have a desire to help other mothers enjoy a positive experience
• Have access to a telephone and reliable transportation

TRAINING:

• Attends a series of breastfeeding classes (may bring nursing baby under 8 months)
• Observes other peer counselors or breastfeeding experts helping mothers breastfeed
• Reads assigned books or materials about breastfeeding

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• The majority of time spent in this position is in a well-lighted, heated and air-conditioned indoor office setting with adequate ventilation.
• This job requires moderate physical activity performing in a primarily administrative nature.
• Occasional periods of high stress.
• Clinic hours are 7:45 am-4:30pm Monday- Friday. Variable shifts ranging from 4-8 hours are available with up to 30 hours per week.