WIC Nutrition Specialist (Competent Professional Authority)

Competent Professional Authority (CPA) – WIC Program

Location: Aurora, IL – 2124 Ogden Ave. Rate of Pay: $20.84/hour

Aunt Martha's Health and Wellness boldly commits to supporting the well-being of our communities, ensuring equity in access, and delivering exceptional care inspired by a culture of innovation. We are dedicated to creating environments that allow us to do what we do best—provide accessible healthcare and wellness services.

Position Summary

Under the direct supervision of the WIC Coordinator, the Competent Professional Authority (CPA) supports the Women, Infants, and Children Supplemental Nutrition Program, commonly known as WIC. This role performs WIC certifications, determines program eligibility, prescribes food packages, and provides nutrition and breastfeeding education to WIC participants.

The CPA focuses on the nutritional needs of pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, as well as infants and children up to five years of age. This position helps protect the health of women and children who may be at risk for poor nutrition by providing education, resources, referrals, and coordinated support.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform WIC certifications in accordance with federal, state, and Aunt Martha's guidelines.
• Determine WIC Program eligibility for applicants.
• Complete dietary assessments and assess each client's nutritional status.
• Develop and coordinate individualized nutrition plans of care.
• Provide client-centered counseling on nutrition, dietary recommendations, and breastfeeding education.
• Prescribe WIC-eligible food packages and explain the use of WIC food instruments.
• Complete WIC records, including nutrition assessments, SAP notes, follow-up appointments, referrals, and required documentation.
• Schedule individual or group nutrition education follow-up appointments for WIC clients.
• Assess client needs and make appropriate medical, community, and social service referrals.
• Prepare for and teach WIC nutrition education group sessions, staff in-services, and other assigned classes.
• Use the WIC computer system for certification, inquiry, scheduling, food instrument issuance, and report generation.
• Document and retrieve information using Athena, Cornerstone, and other required systems.
• Maintain adequate supplies of WIC certification and nutrition education materials.
• Participate in peer monitoring, self-assessments, chart audits, supervision, and staff meetings.
• Respond to patients, peers, and referring agencies in a positive and timely manner.
• Uphold confidentiality requirements consistent with HIPAA, state, and federal laws.
• Attend and successfully complete all agency and program-required training.
• Follow agency policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Qualified candidates must meet the requirements for a Competent Professional Authority under WIC guidelines. Acceptable backgrounds may include:

• Registered Dietitian
• Registered Dietetic Technician
• Nutritionist
• Registered Nurse
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Health or Home Economics with an emphasis in nutrition

Experience or coursework in maternal and child nutrition, lactation, nutrition assessment, and nutrition education is preferred.

Additional Requirements

• Bilingual skills preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Knowledge of community resources.
• Experience using Microsoft Office programs.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English.
• Current driver's license with a clear driving record.
• Current auto insurance.
• Ability to work late evening hours based on program needs.
• Ability to work some weekend hours based on program needs.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to build rapport and communicate effectively with participants and caretakers.
• Understanding of life-cycle nutrition, including pregnancy, lactation, postpartum care, infancy, and early childhood.
• Understanding of the WIC nutrition assessment process, including risk assignment and documentation.
• Ability to collect and interpret anthropometric and hematological data.
• Multicultural awareness and sensitivity.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to demonstrate professionalism, flexibility, and excellent customer service.

Compensation and Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Disability and Life Insurance
• Paid Vacation, Sick Days, and Holidays
• Retirement Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee discounts on services such as cell phones, restaurants, and more