Specialist, Lactation Consultant

About the role

Harris County Public Health (HCPH) includes a network of more than 1,100 public health professionals working together to improve health outcomes for the third most populous county in the United States. HCPH provides a multitude of services such as medical and dental services, community programming, and health education for the approximately 2.3 million people in unincorporated Harris County.

HCPH embraces a foundation of progressive work anchored by the department’s cornerstone values guiding our work to improve the community’s health and well-being. These values include transparency, integrity, respect, impact, and collaboration.

Responsibilities

The Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) provides specialized breastfeeding assessment, consultation, and care coordination for participants in the Maternal and Child Health Program. This role evaluates lactation needs, develops individualized care plans, and provides follow-up support to promote positive breastfeeding outcomes.

• Provide comprehensive lactation assessment, consultation, and clinical management for Maternal and Child Health Program participants across settings (clinic, home visits, hospital, telehealth), addressing complex breastfeeding challenges and developing individualized care plans.
• Deliver prenatal and postpartum breastfeeding education, including leading community classes, workshops, and support groups; develop and present evidence-based educational materials tailored to diverse populations.
• Serve as the Designated Breastfeeding Expert (DBE), providing clinical guidance to staff, supporting best practices, and promoting initiatives such as Baby-Friendly and Mother-Friendly care.
• Coordinate care and referrals, collaborating with physicians, nurses, and community providers; ensure appropriate follow-up and continuity of care for breastfeeding participants.
• Manage and distribute durable medical equipment (e.g., breast pumps and supplies), ensuring appropriate utilization to support lactation goals.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant documentation of client encounters, care plans, and outcomes in accordance with program and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science Degree in healthcare related field
• At least two (2) years of experience in a healthcare setting
• International Board Certified Lactation Consultation Certification (IBCLC)
• Valid Driver’s License and auto insurance (Texas upon hire)

Skills

• Proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Excellent communication skills (verbal & written)
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and foster teamwork in a diverse environment
• Ability to maintain confidentiality when dealing with sensitive information
• Ability to work well with public and staff members

Core Competencies

• Data Analytics and Assessment Skills: Ability to use data to analyze community health needs and support decisions that improve community health outcomes.
• Communication Skills: This competency focuses on using clear and effective communication to engage audiences, address misinformation, and build trust, supporting informed decisions and stronger public health outcomes.
• Health Advancement Skills: This competency focuses on applying principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion to public health, addressing systemic barriers, and promoting fair access to resources for healthier communities.
• Community Partnership Skills: This competency focuses on collaborating with communities to address the systems and policies affecting health, fostering engagement, shared ownership, and sustainable improvements in well-being.
• Public Health Science Skills: This competency focuses on using public health science and evidence-based approaches to develop and improve policies and programs, ensuring effective delivery of the 10 Essential Public Health Services.

Work Environment and Schedule

This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are typically Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Must be willing to flex work hours when required, including weekends.

This job operates in a professional office environment with occasional visits needed to private residential homes, clinics, and other community organizations. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines.

Physical demands include the ability to lift up to 20 pounds and bending & standing for periods at a time.

Work location: Harris County Public Health: 1111 Fannin St. Houston, Texas. 77002.