WIC LACTATION EDUCATOR

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Lactation Educator works under the supervision of the Breastfeeding Coordinator to provide basic breastfeeding support and education to WIC enrolled pregnant and breastfeeding mothers in accordance with Gateway and NJ Department of Health (DOH) policies and procedures. Lactation Educator will work collaboratively with the nutrition staff to encourage and promote breastfeeding.

KEY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

· Provides basic evidence based breastfeeding information and support to WIC enrolled pregnant and breastfeeding program participants.

· Facilitates individual and group education for pregnant and breastfeeding participants.

· Assists WIC mothers in achieving their breastfeeding goals by supporting them to overcome basic barriers, challenges and concerns.

· Provides periodic contacts to participants though out the Gateway WIC agency sites to follow up on progress of their pregnancy and breastfeeding concerns.

· Keeps accurate and updated records of all participants they interact with in the WOS system.

· Will be available for breastfeeding clients needing assistance outside of normal clinic hours via phone.

· Uses established protocols to refer concerns beyond the scope of practice to CPAs, IBCLCs, health care providers or other public health programs.

· Assesses the needs of WIC enrolled breastfeeding participants for breast pumps and other breastfeeding aides and refers to the IBCLC as appropriate.

· Attends at least one breastfeeding conference or workshop annually.

· Reviews current literature to stay up-to-date on breastfeeding trends, evidence-based practices, and emerging research.

· Assists in completing administrative tasks as assigned.

· Attends staff meetings and trainings as assigned.

· Participates in planning and organizing breastfeeding month and other activities.

-Assists in organizing and maintaining of general breastfeeding education materials and displays in the WIC clinics including bulletin boards, pamphlets, food displays, etc.

· Performs other duties as assigned.

Additional Functions:

· Participates in community outreach activities that promote breastfeeding.

· Attends and assists with breastfeeding support groups.

· May be required to participate in other departmental activities as directed.

· Local travel and evening hours may be required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Associate Degree or Undergrad required.
• Bilingual preferred.
• Personal breastfeeding experience required, with exclusive or predominant breastfeeding experience preferred.  
• Candidate should complete both Level 1 and Level 2 of the State provided PC training after hire.