Breastfeeding Counselor (Part-Time, Grant Funded)

Department: Public Health Division: Community Health Promotion Closing Date: 10/03/2024 11:59 PM Mountain This position does not include benefits. This position has an anticipated work schedule of Monday - Friday with rotation of Saturday & Sunday, subject to change. Under FLSA guidelines, this position is non-exempt. The position works 6 - 8 hours per week, with work occurring about every 4 hours including between 8am - 9am, around 1pm, and around 5pm. The position also works in rotation checking client text messages from 9am - 9pm every 4 hours on the weekends. Training Schedule: Training takes place over the course of 4 weeks with approximately 16 hours of weekly training. Each week there will be in-person training on Wednesdays and Fridays for about 6-8 hours in total. The remaining 6-8 weekly hours will be completed remotely. This is subject to change. Please be advised this position may close on or after 9/19/2024, without advance notice, should we receive a sufficient number of qualified applications. Provides one-on-one nutrition and breastfeeding education, counseling, and assistance to Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) clients participating in the Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program A texting platform is the main mode of communication with clientele. Refers to various support agencies and contacts as appropriate. This position is subject to grant funding. Essential Duties/Responsibilities: -Counsels WIC clients regarding program options, pregnancy, and breastfeeding utilizing a variety of skills and strategies, including active listening, goal setting, and care-plan development; provides clients with nutrition and breastfeeding education and information, including the benefits of breastfeeding, overcoming common barriers, and getting a good start with breastfeeding. -Responds to inquiries related to the WIC program, nutrition, and common breastfeeding concerns and/or refers callers to appropriate personnel. -Receives a caseload of clients and routinely contacts assigned clients per policy via the texting platform. -Cleans breast pumps as needed; assists with managing the breast pump loan program. -Assesses client needs and refers clients to various support agencies and contacts, including the WIC Registered Dietitian or Supervisor, lactation consultant, the client's physician or nurse, social services, food banks, and mental health organizations. Makes appropriate referrals to Registered Dietitians per High-Risk Triage tool protocols and to the Supervisor per the Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Yield protocols. -Maintains accurate records of all contact made with clients. Schedules appointments utilizing computerized scheduling program. Adheres to the appropriate program's caseload standards. -Notifies Supervisor of any changes in breastfeeding status and/or other pertinent health information or concerns; maintains strict confidentiality. -Conducts prenatal classes and facilitates breastfeeding support groups as needed. May assist WIC staff in promoting breastfeeding peer counseling through special projects and duties as assigned. -Attends training classes and offsite conferences/workshops/meetings and participates in continuing education as appropriate, funding permitted. -Promotes public health within the community. -Provides professional and sensitive customer service to clients and public of diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. -Takes personal responsibility to provide exceptional customer service in order to promote and maintain a positive Public Health image, constructive working environment, and foster pride and professionalism in the workplace and community. -Performs other duties as required. Qualifications Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: -Knowledge and understanding of agency policies and procedures. -Skill in demonstrating a cooperative, professional attitude to cultivate relationships both within and outside the organization. -Skill in prioritizing and organizing multiple tasks and the ability to complete projects in a timely manner. -Skilled in training and presentation. -Ability to successfully complete the State WIC Program Basic Nutrition, Breastfeeding, Participant Centered Education On-line Course and Baby Behavior Modules. -Ability to maintain the security of sensitive and confidential information. -Ability to respond in a flexible manner and reprioritize work as situations change. -Ability to demonstrate sound judgment by taking appropriate actions regarding questionable findings or concerns. -Ability to identify problems and work creatively to resolve them, considering the impact of actions. -Ability to identify results of efforts and problems identified/potential problems and to develop and recommend corrective actions. -Ability to write and maintain accurate records and reports to meet management objectives. -Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and in a team environment. -Ability to perform under pressure and when confronted with persons acting under stress. -Proficient in using a computer and various software packages including Microsoft Office. -Maintain regular and punctual attendance. Work Conditions: Duties are primarily performed at established work location; onsite presence will also be required as requested. May be required to assist with issues on evenings and weekends, including assisting new mothers who are having