WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor

POSITION SUMMARY: Perform the duties required to give basic breastfeeding information and encouragement to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.

POSITION QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Education: Requires High School graduate or equivalent.

Experience: Must have prior breastfeeding experience (does not have to be currently breastfeeding)

Skills and Abilities which may be representative but not all inclusive of those commonly associated with this position:

1. Ability to express enthusiasm about breastfeeding, and to help mothers enjoy a positive experience.
2. Has a telephone and is willing to make and receive phone calls at home.
3. Willing to make home visits and hospital visits, work evenings and weekends.
4. Available by phone when needed.
5. Ability to maintain confidentiality of client information.

Transportation Requirement: Must possess a valid driver's license and automobile with insurance coverage as required by the State of Missouri.

License(s)/Certification(s) required: CPR Certification required.

FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB

Essential Functions

1. Attends and assist with prenatal classes, recruits potential cases and develops relationship with clients.
2. Recruits and counsels women in the WIC clinic. Provides basic breastfeeding information and support to new mothers to include explaining the benefits of breastfeeding, overcoming common barriers, and getting a good start with breastfeeding.
3. Conducts follow-up on client referrals within twenty-four (24) hours of giving birth. Responds to new mothers experiencing breastfeeding problems during business hours and outside 8-5 working hours. Makes routine periodic contacts, including home visits to patients assigned to a caseload for this position.
4. Counsels WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers by home visits and/or hospital visits at scheduled intervals determined by the WIC program.
5. Maintains accurate records of all contacts made with WIC clients.
6. Refers clients according to protocols (i.e. social service agencies, WIC Nutritionist, etc.).
7. Performs other duties as assigned.

Marginal Functions:

1. Attends monthly staff meetings and breastfeeding conferences/workshops as appropriate.
2. Assists WIC staff in promoting breastfeeding peer counseling through special projects as needed.
3. Reads assigned books and materials on breastfeeding provided by supervisor.

Supervises: None.

NOTE: SMOKING IS PROHIBITED IN THE WORK ENVIRONMENT

NOTE: ALL APPLICANTS MUST PROVIDE CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THREE REFERENCES

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY SERVICES PROVIDED ON A NON-DISCRIMINATORY BASIS