WIC - Nutritionist Assistant/Peer Counselor

WIC Program

The Nutrition Assistant/WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor is a paraprofessional support person who gives basic breastfeeding information and encouragement to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and assist the Nutritionist in accomplishing Local Agency Objectives.

Essential Functions

The essential functions of this position consist of the ability to perform basic math functions, write, read, and comprehend what is read. Expressive and receptive language skills are also required in the execution of the responsibilities below.

Specific Duties

Nutrition Assistant Duties
  • Provide individual education to WIC clients on various nutrition related topics. Conduct follow-up of value-enhanced nutrition care plans and previously established goals in Penn. Determine and document subsequent goal if necessary.
  • Contacts will be provided both in-person, and through teleWIC services.
  • Document specific contact information pertaining to nutrition education in Penn for each individual participant.
  • Refer participants in need of other services to the appropriate source.
  • Perform anthropometric and hematological measurements after receiving required training.
  • Complete proxy form according to State Policy when necessary.
  • Load food benefits onto eWIC card for the eligible months.
  • Determine which type of appointment is needed for participants next appointment. Schedule next appointment.
  • Attend State Breastfeeding training as scheduled. Promote and support breastfeeding among WIC participants.
  • Other duties as assigned by Nutrition Education Coordinator or Director.
Peer Counseling Duties:
  • Attends breastfeeding training classes to become a peer counselor.
  • Counsels WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers at the WIC clinic or by telephone contacts at scheduled intervals.
  • Receives a caseload of WIC clients and makes routine periodic contacts with all clients assigned.
  • Promotes breastfeeding with pregnant women and gives basic breastfeeding information and support to new mothers, including benefits of breastfeeding, overcoming common barriers, and getting a good start with breastfeeding. She also helps mothers prevent and handle common breastfeeding concerns.
  • Is available outside usual 8 to 5 working hours to new mothers who are having breastfeeding problems.
  • Respects each client by keeping her information strictly confidential.
  • Keeps accurate records of all contacts made with WIC clients.
  • Refers mothers, according to clinic-established protocols, to the:
    • WIC nutritionist or breastfeeding coordinator.
    • Lactation consultant.
    • The mother’s physician or nurse.
    • Public health programs in the community.
    • Social service agencies.
  • Attends and assists with prenatal classes and breastfeeding support groups.
  • Attends regular 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.

Training

  • Attends a series of breastfeeding classes (nursing babies are welcomed).
  • Receives one-on-one orientation training with peer counselor supervisor in helping mothers breastfeed.
  • Attends peer counselor meetings and in-services as directed.
  • Reads assigned books or materials about breastfeeding.

 

Hours

Mon - Fri, 40 Hours per week
Possibility of work outside normal working hours.

 

Immediate Supervisor

WIC Director and Nutrition Education Director/Peer Counselor Supervisor 

 

Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED plus 6 months of previous experience in nutrition or have completed and passed an approved college course in nutrition or dietetics.
  • Candidate must have excellent communication, time management and organizational skills, as well as proficient computer knowledge.
  • Valid Driver’s License, travel is required. Must be able to pass State blood training.
  • Has breastfed at least one baby for at least 6 months (does not have to be currently breastfeeding)
  • Will be a current or previous WIC Participant.
  • Demonstrates basic communication skills and an ability to utilize counseling techniques.
  • Demonstrates enthusiasm about breastfeeding and desires to help other mothers.
  • Has reliable transportation.
  • Comfortable with leading small groups such as a support group setting. 

Equal Opportunity Employer