BREASTFEEDING PEER COUNSELOR (BFPC) (WIC)

Position will be open until filled.

We are currently seeking:

A breastfeeding peer counselor who will work as 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.

Your responsibilities will include:

1. Receiving a caseload of WIC mothers and making routine periodic contact with all mothers assigned.
2. Giving 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.
3. Counseling WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers by telephone, home visits, and/or hospital visits at scheduled intervals determined by the local WIC program.
4. May counsel women in the WIC clinic.
5. Respecting each mother by keeping her information strictly confidential.
6. Keeping accurate records of all contacts made with WIC mothers.
7. Referring 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.
8. Attending and assisting with prenatal classes and breastfeeding support groups.
9. Attending monthly staff meetings and breastfeeding conferences/workshops as appropriate.
10. Reading assigned books and materials on breastfeeding that are provided by the supervisor.
11. May assist WIC staff in promoting breastfeeding peer counseling through special projects and duties as assigned.
12. Must be 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.

The above duties are not intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification, only a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.

Requirements and Skills:

• 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.

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:

• Must possess a valid Texas Driver License with a good driving record.
• Applicants with an out-of-state driver license must provide an original certified driving record from the state of driving licensure.

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.