BREASTFEEDING PEER COUNSELOR (BFPC) (WIC)

Position will be open until filled.

GENERAL PURPOSE: A breastfeeding peer counselor is a para-professional support person with a commitment to promote and support breastfeeding women and their families. A Breastfeeding Peer Counselor (BFPC) also gives basic breastfeeding information and encouragement to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. This position is a temporary/seasonal position.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 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. A BFPC also helps mothers prevent and handle common breastfeeding concerns. Counsels WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers by telephone, home visits, and/or hospital visits at scheduled intervals determined by the local WIC program. May counsel women in the WIC clinic. Respects each mother by keeping her information strictly confidential. Keeps accurate records of all contacts made with WIC mothers. 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; and/or social service agencies. Attends and assists with prenatal classes and breastfeeding support groups. Attends monthly staff meetings and breastfeeding conferences/workshops as appropriate. 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. Available outside the WIC clinic and the usual 7:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Thursday working schedule to new mothers who are having breastfeeding problems. Must be able to work about 10 hours a week. Some travel involved. Must be able to work at the Ballinger, Coleman, and San Angelo satellite clinics. Must be able to work Monday through Thursday, 7:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm; and the first Saturday of the month from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm as needed. This is a temporary position. Hours will vary. Will work approximately 10-20 hours per week or as needed. Regular and timely attendance is required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Education and Experience: High school diploma or equivalent, and one year breastfeeding counseling and/or lactation consulting experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Has breastfed at least one baby (does not have to be currently breastfeeding). Must successfully complete the Breastfeeding Peer Counselor training program through the Texas WIC agency. Must be a current or former WIC participant or must be from the community served by the local agency. Required Licenses or Certifications: A valid driver license with a good driving record is required. Applicants with an out-of-state driver license must provide an original certified driving record from the state of driving licensure. Required Knowledge of: General knowledge of the WIC program. Basic interviewing techniques. Must possess an interest in life cycle health and nutritional needs for pregnant, breastfeeding, postpartum women, infants and small children. Customer service standards and protocol. Required Skill in: Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with other staff members, outside agencies, clients and the general public. Is enthusiastic about breastfeeding and wants to help other mothers enjoy a positive experience. Exhibits good nurturing skills. Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred. Physical Demands / Work Environment: Work is performed in a standard office and clinical setting. Subject to standing, walking, bending, reaching and lifting objects up to 25 pounds. Exposure to infectious diseases and potentially irate members of the public. Must pass a background check, physical and drug screening.

Job postings may be withdrawn at any time at direction of the City Manager.