Nutrition Educator 1 (Paraprofessional)

Louisiana State University

81d • $25,480 - $45,864

About The Position

The Nutrition Educator 1 (Paraprofessional) position is classified under the LSU Agricultural Center and is based in the Lafayette Parish Extension Office. The primary function of this role is to provide nutritional information and education to program participants. This entry-level position involves close supervision from agency personnel and does not include experienced-level duties. The educator will learn to instruct program participants through various methods, including games and demonstrations, and will assist in outreach activities for nutritional programs such as EFNEP, Healthy Beginnings, SNAP-ED, and WIC. Responsibilities include teaching food preparation methods, maintaining participant records, and preparing educational materials.

Requirements

• No specialized training or experience required.
• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license and insured automobile.
• Must be able to demonstrate basic computer skills and effective verbal, written, and listening skills.
• Must be able to transport supplies and equipment (up to 30 lbs.).
• Knowledge of the community, including living within the assigned parish (currently or previously).

Nice To Haves

• Experience in teaching nutrition education classes and activities.
• Ability to establish and maintain partnerships with agencies and organizations.

Responsibilities

• Learn to provide instruction to program participants through games, multi-media, demonstrations, etc.
• Provide brochures and other information relative to the assigned program.
• Teach proper methods of food preparation and storage consistent with food safety standards.
• Assist in conducting outreach and related activities for assigned nutritional programs.
• Prepare bulletin boards and distribute information at health units and universities.
• Provide program information to community partners and form relationships to recruit program participants and volunteers.
• Take basic measurements of program participants to track nutritional and health goals.
• Assist in teaching classes on parenting, money management, and other relevant topics.
• Become familiar with the assigned program and screen potential participants for eligibility.
• Maintain program participant information and records in an electronic system.
• Assist on site visits by documenting stock levels and product pricing.
• Maintain supplies for educational purposes, such as visual aids and cooking demonstrations.
• Document lessons, resources used, and participation counts.
• Assist in preparing state and federal reports.
• Make referrals to other assistance programs as needed.

Benefits

• Retirement options.
• Multiple medical insurance options.
• Supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.).
• Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan.
• University holidays (14 per year).
• Generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED