WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor

Norton Sound Health Corp•Nome, AK

15h•Hybrid

About The Position

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

Requirements

Has successfully breastfed at least one baby for at least 6 months (does not have to be currently breastfeeding)
Is enthusiastic about breastfeeding and wants to help other mothers enjoy a positive experience
Can work about 10 hours per week
Is willing to make phone calls from home and is available after clinic hours
Reflects the population served in age, ethnicity, education and language
Positive communication skills
Ideally a current or previous WIC participant
General knowledge of typical office technologies such as computers, printers, copiers, fax machines, and typical office software.
Experience breastfeeding their own child(ren)
Above average customer service skills
Patient/customer service skills, interpersonal skills and good communication skills.
Ability to manage their time and organize their work to ensure efficient performance.
Ability to follow policy, procedure and instructions, actively communicate with their supervisors to ensure understanding and manage their work accordingly.
Ability to understand and manage patient/customer confidentiality.
6 months demonstrated general experience

Nice To Haves

High school diploma preferred

Responsibilities

Participate in breastfeeding training courses to become a peer counselor, with completion within 6 months of hire.
Counsels WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers by telephone, email, text, and home, WIC or hospital visits
Receives a caseload of WIC mothers and makes routine periodic contacts with all mothers 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
Helps prevent and handle common breastfeeding concerns
Available outside usual 8 to 5 working hours to mothers who are having breastfeeding problems
Respects each client by keeping her information strictly confidential
Keeps accurate records of all contacts made with WIC clients
Refers mothers, according to clinic- established protocols to: WIC nutritionist or breastfeeding coordinator, Lactation consultant, Mother’s physician or nurse, Public health programs in the community, Social service agencies
Attends, assists, and hosts with The Lactation Club and/or other breastfeeding support groups and events
Attends staff meetings and breastfeeding trainings as appropriate
Attend one-on-one meetings with IBCLC monthly
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