WIC PEER COUNSELOR - Public Health

THIS IS A GRANT FUNDED POSITION

Support the federally mandated requirement for WIC breastfeeding promotion program by providing basic counseling, education and assistance to women who choose to participate in the program.

Examples of Duties

1. Provides counseling and education to pregnant and breastfeeding women to encourage initiation and increased duration of breastfeeding
2. Confers with physicians, nutritionists and nurses regarding the health of clients and their children
3. Monitors WIC centers to ensure the environment is conducive to promotion of the breastfeeding program
4. Documents breastfeeding assessment and counseling in medical records at WIC centers and hospitals
5. Assesses breastfeeding problems and provides appropriate referrals
6. Uses appropriate counseling techniques/protocols in responding to a variety of culture and family situations
7. Monitors WIC breastfeeding rates to ensure they meet the performance/program objectives in the contract with the Texas Department of Health
8. Completes lactation educator certification and participates in regular continuing education
9. Maintains accurate inventory of breast pumps and accessories and, when appropriate, issues equipment to clients and provides instruction on use
10. Performs all other related duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.  

• One (1) full-time year of general clerical or customer service experience is required, two (2) years is preferred.   

• Must have breastfed one child successfully.  

• Must be participating or have participated in the WIC program.  

• Current and valid driver license is required.  

• Can give at least a one (1) year commitment. 

• Ability to work outside of regular clinic hours and outside of the WIC clinic.  

• Have transportation and telephone availability.  

• Complete lactation educator certification within six (6) months of employment.  

• Ability to keyboard and use word processing and spreadsheet software.

Supplemental Information

While performing the duties of this position, the incumbent is regularly required to stoop, bend, pull and push.  May have to lift heavy boxes or objects up to 50 lbs.  May handle blood samples and specimens using OSHA guidelines.