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WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor

Description

Position Summary:

A paraprofessional support position providing basic breastfeeding information and encouragement to pregnant and breastfeeding enrolled WIC participants.

Job Responsibilities:

• Attends breastfeeding training classes to become a peer counselor.

• Receives a caseload of WIC mothers and makes routine periodic contacts with all mothers assigned as outlined by WIC Breastfeeding Coordinator.

• Gives basic breastfeeding information and support to new mothers, including telling them about the benefits of breastfeeding, overcoming common barriers, and getting a good start with breastfeeding. She also helps mothers prevent and handle common breastfeeding concerns.

• Counsels WIC prenatal and breastfeeding mothers in the WIC clinic, by telephone, and/or hospital visits at scheduled intervals determined by the WIC Program. Can make these contacts outside the normal WIC office hours as needed.

• Responds to WIC mothers who contact her as soon as possible, within 24 hours at most, utilizing the cell phone or office phone provided by the employer.

• Respects each mother by keeping her information strictly confidential.

• Keeps accurate records of all contacts made with WIC mothers.

• Adheres to all organizational policies and procedures relative to exposure control.

• Refers non scope-of-practice inquiries to:

o WIC Nutritionist or Breastfeeding Coordinator

o Lactation consultant

o Healthcare providers

o Community agencies and programs

• Attends and assists with prenatal classes, facilitated group discussions, hospital visits, and breastfeeding support groups as offered.

• Attends monthly staff meetings and breastfeeding conferences and workshops as appropriate.

• Reads assigned books and materials on breastfeeding that are provided by Breastfeeding Coordinator.

• May assist WIC staff in promoting breastfeeding peer counseling through special projects and duties as assigned.

• May deliver and educate on breast pumps, after assessment by Breastfeeding Coordinator, a Qualified Nutritionist or Competent Professional Authority and provide education and follow-up under the guidance of the Breastfeeding Coordinator.

• Complete mandatory trainings and read mandatory policies as required by Oak Orchard Health.

• May participate in outreach and public health detailing as assigned.

• Complies with all New York State WIC Program and Oak Orchard Health policies.

• Any other reasonable requests from management.

Requirements

Skills/Qualifications:

• Has breastfed at least one baby (does not have to be currently breastfeeding) and within the target WIC population.

• Is enthusiastic about breastfeeding and wants to help other mothers enjoy a positive experience.

• Can work between 10-15 hours per week based on caseload needs. This is a per diem position and requires flexibility in schedule. Some evenings and weekends may be required.

• Must be available to work in office and work from home available as determined by supervisor.

• Has reliable transportation. Car and valid Driver's license required. Must maintain vehicle insurance. Car must be registered in New York State and maintain minimum requirement, by law, to have liability insurance.

• Has good organizational skills, enabling her to manage her assigned caseload, keep track of her scheduled clinic hours, meetings, and trainings, and meet deadlines.

• Current or previous WIC participants are preferred.

• Is committed to creating a positive team environment and being a good team member.

• Optional: Bilingual in English and another relevant language.

Required Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Attends a series of breastfeeding classes based on New York State Peer counseling Curriculum.

• Observes other peer counselors or breastfeeding experts helping mothers breastfeed.

• Reads assigned books or materials about breastfeeding.

Salary Description

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