Jobs WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor

Summary

The Pottawattamie County Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program is announcing the hiring of a part-time Breastfeeding Peer Counselor.

A WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor is a paraprofessional support person who gives basic breastfeeding information and encouragement to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.

This is a part-time position working approximately 7-10 hours per week. Applicants must have experience breastfeeding and must have participated in the WIC program before. Bi-lingual in Spanish is preferred.

Essential Functions

Attends breastfeeding training classes to become a peer counselor.
 
Counsels WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers by telephone, and/or at the WIC Clinic while adhering to the defined scope of practice of the breastfeeding peer counselor at scheduled intervals determined by the local WIC program.

Receives a caseload of WIC Clients and makes routine periodic contacts with all clients assigned.

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.  Also helps mothers prevent and handle common breastfeeding concerns.

Is available outside of usual 8 to 5 working hours to new mothers who are having breastfeeding problems.

Respects each client by keeping her information strictly confidential.

Keeps accurate records of all contracts made with WIC clients.
 
Refers mothers, according to clinic-established protocols, to the:

• WIC nutritionist or breastfeeding coordinator.
• Lactation consultant.
• The mother's physician or nurse.
• Public health programs in the community.
• Social service agencies.

Attends and assists with prenatal classes and breastfeeding support groups.
 
Attends monthly staff meetings and breastfeeding conferences/workshops as appropriate.
 
Reads assigned books and materials on breastfeeding that are provided by the supervisor.
 
May assist WIC staff in promoting breastfeeding peer counseling through special projects and duties as assigned

Essential Knowledge, Experience, and Ability

Observes other peer counselors or lactation consultants helping mothers breastfeed.

Reads assigned books or materials about breastfeeding.

Has breastfed at least one baby for at least a year (does not have to be currently breastfeeding).

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

Essential Education, Certification, and/or Licenses

Willing to attend a series of breastfeeding classes.

Has reliable transportation.

Has breastfed at least one baby for at least a year (does not have to be currently breastfeeding). 

Is currently or has been a WIC participant.

Can work outside of normal business hours.