Public Health Nutritionist I

About the Role

The primary focus for a Public Health Nutritionist is providing nutritional counseling and breastfeeding support to individuals enrolled in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) supplemental nutrition program. This role involves using motivational interviewing techniques during in-person and virtual appointments in a culturally competent manner, working with prenatal and postpartum individuals, and children under the age of five. Additional responsibilities include developing follow-up plans for nutritionally high-risk clients, community outreach, education, and partnering with others involved in maternal and child health populations.

Responsibilities

• Provide nutritional counseling and breastfeeding support to WIC participants.
• Develop and implement follow-up plans for nutritionally high-risk clients.
• Conduct community outreach and education activities.
• Collaborate with maternal and child health partners.
• Participate in outcomes-based planning and assess the effectiveness of nutrition interventions through the Nutrition Services Plan.
• Engage in continuous improvement projects.
• Respond to public health emergencies affecting the community.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or higher degree in nutrition, nutritional sciences, community nutrition, clinical nutrition, dietetics, or public health nutrition.
• Applicants in the final semester of a qualifying degree program may apply, with graduation required before the start date.

Preferred Qualifications

• Registered Dietitian (R.D.) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (R.D.N.).
• At least one year of experience providing nutrition education (volunteer, internship, or undergraduate experience considered).
• Demonstrated ability to implement public health interventions.
• Content expertise in nutrition related to women, infants, and children.
• Experience using behavior change theory and Motivational Interviewing in nutrition counseling.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Adaptability to change in the dynamic field of public health.

Benefits

• 80% State-paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families.
• 12 paid holidays annually and a generous leave plan.
• State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI).
• Defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts.
• Low-cost group life insurance.
• Incentive-based Wellness Program.
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program.

Schedule

Monday-Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with eligibility for a hybrid in-office/telework schedule (up to 2 days per week teleworking). Occasional evenings, weekends, and travel to offsite events and WIC activities required.

Location: Barre Office of Local Health serving Washington/Northern Orange County.

Division of Local Health Mission: Promote the physical, mental, and social well-being of people in Vermont by advancing equity, protecting against disease and injury, and preparing for health emergencies.

Who May Apply: Open to all State employees and external applicants. (Job Requisition #55675)

Environmental Factors: Duties performed in a public health setting or outlying service sites. Travel requires a driver's license and private transportation. Occasional statewide travel and potential travel in difficult weather conditions. Interaction with staff, clients, and the public. May assist during public health emergencies. Physical demands include carrying equipment for clinic and education activities. Contact with potentially dangerous individuals and various illnesses. Some functions may require work outside normal hours.