Breastfeeding Peer Counselor-WIC

About the role

A Women Infants and Children (WIC) Breastfeeding Peer Counselor provides basic breastfeeding information and encouragement to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers with the goal of increasing breastfeeding rates.

Responsibilities

• 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 track participants who are breastfeeding
• Assisting with prenatal classes and breastfeeding support groups
• Keep accurate records and refer clients appropriately
• Work up to 30 hours per week
• Have a work cell phone and be willing to make calls from home as needed
• Have reliable transportation
• Bilingual/Spanish a plus

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
• Valid driver’s license and auto insurance with minimum coverage
• Access to a telephone and reliable transportation

Qualifications

• Must have a valid driver’s license and auto insurance with minimum coverage
• Must have a Clearance of background check and drug screen

Skills and Abilities

• Must possess good communication skills
• Enthusiastic about breastfeeding and have a desire to help other mothers enjoy a positive experience
• 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