WIC Advocate

Job Title: WIC Advocate
Company: CEDA (Community & Economic Development Association of Cook County)
Website: www.cedaorg.net
Compensation: Commensurate with experience
Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Reports To: WIC Supervisor
Location: Base site location - Oak Lawn (Zip Code: 60453); occasionally floats to CEDA WIC Clinic in West Region (Zip Code: 60153, 60501)
Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (schedule subject to change based on program needs)

Do you want a career that makes a difference?

If you are passionate about serving your community and want to make an impact in the lives of thousands, CEDA is looking for you! We serve over 200,000 residents annually, and as a WIC Advocate, you’ll play a key role in supporting families, guiding them through the WIC program, and providing essential services to ensure the health and well-being of mothers and children in Cook County.

Job Overview:

Under the direction of the WIC Supervisor, the WIC Advocate is responsible for providing intake services, managing client schedules, and assisting with community outreach for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. This role includes supporting pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, resolving vendor issues, instructing clients on using their EBT cards, and ensuring clients receive necessary education and referrals. As a WIC Advocate, you’ll work in a collaborative environment, fostering a welcoming atmosphere and representing CEDA with professionalism and care.

Key Responsibilities:

• Client Support & Intake: Verify eligibility, review program consent, and enter client information into the IWIC system. Guide clients through using their EBT cards, shopping lists, and the IWIC app.
• Breastfeeding Support: Provide basic breastfeeding information and encourage mothers to seek additional support as needed. Upon completion of training, provide peer counseling and support for breastfeeding mothers.
• Vendor & Community Outreach: Manage vendor relations and resolve any issues. Conduct community outreach, maintain a local referral list, and promote WIC services to those in need.
• Data Collection & Reporting: Take anthropometric measurements, manage client schedules, and ensure clients are scheduled for secondary education contacts. Submit reports as required, including breastfeeding-related reports.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Education: High School Diploma or GED required. An associate’s degree or vocational training is a plus.
• Experience: 1-3 years in an office or clinic environment. 2 years of experience in customer service. Bilingual candidates must demonstrate verbal fluency in the posted language.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), Zoom, and basic computer literacy.
• Breastfeeding Knowledge: Positive breastfeeding attitude required. Must complete intensive breastfeeding training within the first year of employment and complete Breastfeeding Peer Counselor/Educator training to earn certification.
• Soft Skills: Strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and an ability to de-escalate challenging situations. Must have exceptional organizational skills and be able to maintain confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with children or in social service/community action agencies.
• Familiarity with the WIC program or prior experience in a similar role.

Why CEDA?

At CEDA, you will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic and impactful environment with a team that values compassion, diversity, and community engagement. We offer competitive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, a 401K plan, and other benefit options to support your health and well-being.

Ready to make a difference? Apply today and help us change lives!