Breastfeeding Peer Counselor

MASTER EAST SIDE HEALTH DISTRICT•Cahokia, IL

7d•$16 - $16•Onsite

About The Position

Under the general direction and oversight of the WIC Coordinator, the WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor is a paraprofessional support person responsible for providing basic breastfeeding education, encouragement, and support to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. This role includes one-on-one counseling via phone, in person clinic counseling, and home or hospital visits. In order to promote Breastfeeding education and accessibility, Peer Counselors with assist with program outreach and education efforts. The Peer Counselor also supports collaboration with local community organization and health professionals to ensure continuity of care for WIC families.

Requirements

Required: High School Diploma
Has breastfed at least one baby for 4 months or longer in the past 5 years and
Is enthusiastic about breastfeeding, and wants to help other mothers enjoy a positive experience.
Has a telephone, and is willing to make and receive phone calls from home.
Is willing to be available outside usual working hours for new mothers who require support related to breastfeeding problems.
Must complete all required competency-based trainings within six months and obtain valid certification as a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) within one year of employment.
Requires basic knowledge of the teaching/learning process and the ability to teach effectively to diverse groups.
Skilled in maintaining client medical files, both electronic and hard copy.
Knowledge, skills, and experience working with and utilizing community resources.
Familiar with local health and human services agencies.
Computer literacy at the user level is required; experience in scheduling a plus.
Ability to maintain satisfactory working relationships with other employees, patients, family members, health personnel, and other professionals.
Demonstrates problem solving skills and is solution oriented.
Must own a dependable automobile properly insured and possess a valid driver’s license.
Willing to accept other duties as assigned by ESHD.
Adheres to policies and procedures, confidentiality, and HIPPA principles.
Drug-free environment; drug screening and background check required

Nice To Haves

Experience providing services to pregnant women and families with young children preferred.
Preferred – bilingual speaking/writing proficiency (Spanish).

Responsibilities

Provide basic breastfeeding information, encouragement, and support to WIC mothers.
Conduct routine outreach via phone calls, clinic visits, home visits, or hospital visits at scheduled intervals.
Maintain regular contact with assigned WIC clients, offering support for common breastfeeding questions and concerns.
Promote the benefits of breastfeeding and assist mothers in overcoming common barriers.
Schedule client appointments and assist with intake and enrollment activities.
Conduct data entry, answer phones, and maintain client medical records.
Attend required breastfeeding training classes to become and remain a certified peer counselor.
Teach breastfeeding classes and support prenatal education groups.
Participate in breastfeeding support groups, special projects, and community outreach events.
Assist WIC staff in promoting peer counseling services and breastfeeding awareness.
Attend monthly staff meetings and breastfeeding-related conferences/workshops as appropriate.
Travel locally for outreach and client support, with occasional out-of-town travel for training or conferences.
Perform other duties as assigned.