WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor

Do you have a desire to help expectant and new mothers? Work with a dynamic team of professionals who have a passion for making a difference in the lives of others. Panhandle Health District is seeking a (14hrs/wk.) Breastfeeding Peer Counselor (PC) within the WIC program in Hayden, Idaho.

Job Summary:

The Breastfeeding Peer Counselor (PC) is a paraprofessional support person from WIC’s target population of eligible women who have breastfeeding experience. Peer counselors provide support and basic breastfeeding management information to expecting and breastfeeding women.

Responsibilities include interviewing clients to gather health and feeding data, teaching evidence-based breastfeeding techniques, identifying signs of normal breastfeeding progression, offering anticipatory guidance to prevent issues, and assisting mothers in planning for breastfeeding continuation when returning to work or school. Additional tasks include documenting client information, referring clients to appropriate programs, supporting infant feeding classes and peer groups, managing clinic appointments, answering calls, performing receptionist duties, and participating in outreach activities. The role also requires availability outside usual clinic hours and proficiency in various computer programs

Qualifications and Proficiencies:

• Complete the online WIC training within six (6) months of employment.
• Strong knowledge base in breastfeeding practices, referral strategies, and familiarity with PHD and WIC policies and procedures.
• Effective communication skills, demonstrating cultural competency and sensitivity when engaging with breastfeeding mothers from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills, including maintaining accurate records in compliance with WIC guidelines while protecting confidentiality.
• Proficiency with electronic health records (EHR) and public health reporting systems.
• Efficient time management to adhere to scheduling expectations and optimize work balance.
• Valid Idaho driver’s license.

Physical Requirements:

Due to the need for all Health Department personnel to respond to public health emergencies, the employee must be assessed for his/her ability to meet the physical demands of performing the following activities:

• Engage in the following movements: Climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, and writing and repetitive motions
• Exert up to 30 pounds of force occasionally, and/or a negligible amount of force
• constantly to move objects
• Hearing ability sufficient enough to communicate with others effectively in person and over the phone
• Visual ability must be sufficient enough to read typewritten documents, computer screen and drive a car

If unable to demonstrate these abilities based upon a standardized, objective assessment performed by external occupational health professionals, all reasonable accommodations will be made, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and any other applicable Federal and Idaho law.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not intended to be interpreted as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel assigned to this position.

If you are able to demonstrate that you meet the qualifications for this position, please consider applying. Salary is $15.45 per hour for 14 hours per week.

EEO/AA/Veteran’s preference.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $15.45 per hour

Expected hours: No more than 14 per week

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• Have you breastfed at least one baby?
• Do you have reliable transportation?

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $15