Nutrition Assistant- CPPA

UPMC • Altoona, PA

3d

About The Position

UPMC is hiring a Nutrition Assistant for its WIC Program. This hands-on counseling position supports WIC, a nutrition education program that safeguards the health of low-income women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutrition risk. The program provides nutritious foods to supplement diets, information on healthy eating, and referrals to health care.

The Nutrition Assistant assesses participants, identifies WIC risk codes, provides nutrition education and breastfeeding support, and prepares nutrition care plans and tailored food packages for low-risk participants. The role also involves referrals to health and social services, follow-up on referrals, and consultation with designated nutrition or breastfeeding professionals when a situation falls outside the assistant’s scope or they are unsure how to proceed.

Requirements

• High school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED).
• Ability to apply basic principles and practices of nutrition and dietetics, breastfeeding, and maternal and child health concepts.
• Ability to present educational information using a variety of teaching aids, such as pamphlets, flyers, posters, slides, food demonstrations, and breast models.
• Ability to present ideas clearly, verbally and in writing, using language appropriate to the audience.
• Counseling and motivational interviewing skills.
• Knowledge of correct hematological testing procedures.
• Knowledge of procedures for determining WIC risk codes and ability to analyze participants’ nutritional needs.
• Ability to interpret public health nutrition policies and procedures.
• Familiarity with community resources, including health and social services.
• Exceptional customer service skills.
• Valid driver’s license and automotive insurance.
• Act 33 clearance with renewals, Act 34 clearance with renewals, and Act 73 FBI clearance with renewals.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s or associate degree in any field, or completion of college course(s) in nutrition or dietetics at an accredited college or university.
• One year of experience as a program assistant or Breastfeeding Peer Counselor, or one year of experience in a related field.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and document thorough participant assessments and identify WIC risk code(s).
• Deliver and document nutrition education, including breastfeeding promotion and support.
• Prepare nutrition care plans and document contacts for low-risk participants.
• Prescribe and tailor food packages for participants.
• Refer participants to other health and social services and document referrals.
• Provide and document appropriate follow-up to referrals.
• Participate in meetings and continuing education programs as appropriate to job duties.
• Consult or refer to the NEC, CPA, Breastfeeding Coordinator, or Designated Breastfeeding Expert when a situation is outside the CPPA scope or guidance is needed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED