WIC Program Breastfeeding Peer Counselor

Serving Monmouth and Middlesex Counties, NJ

The Children & Family Health Institute (CFHI) at VNA Health Group is seeking a full-time WIC Program Breastfeeding Peer Counselor to provide peer support, education, and encouragement to mothers enrolled in the WIC program to help them initiate and sustain breastfeeding. This role offers personalized, culturally relevant advice and guidance to new mothers, fostering a supportive environment for breastfeeding success. The Breastfeeding Peer Counselor will collaborate with WIC staff, including lactation consultants and nutritionists, to deliver evidence-based breastfeeding education and promote optimal infant feeding practices. This position is grant funded. Continued employment is contingent upon renewed grant funding.

The Children and Family Health Institute is a charitable, nonprofit program of VNA Health Group focused on improving the health and well-being of children and families through accessible, community-based care. CFHI delivers high-impact programs including nutrition support, preventive screenings, vaccinations, and inclusive health services through community health centers and mobile outreach. Our goal is to strengthen scale and stability while advancing a mission that creates meaningful impact in the community.

As a WIC Program Breastfeeding Peer Counselor, you will:

Provide one-on-one breastfeeding support and encouragement to WIC participants via phone, in person, or through virtual platforms.
Offer evidence-based guidance on breastfeeding techniques, positioning, latch, and milk supply to mothers of newborns and infants.
Assist mothers in overcoming common breastfeeding challenges such as nipple pain, low milk supply, engorgement, and breastfeeding while working or studying.
Serve as a positive role model for breastfeeding.
May occasionally receive after-hours calls from participants; expected to check for and return calls within an appropriate timeframe

Educate mothers and families about the benefits of breastfeeding, including its role in infant health, maternal bonding, and long-term health outcomes for both mother and child.
Provide information on topics such as exclusive breastfeeding, breast pump usage, storing milk, and transitioning to solid foods.
Offer guidance on breastfeeding after returning to work or school, including managing pumping and maintaining milk supply.

Provide ongoing support through regular follow-up calls or clinic appointments to assess mothers' breastfeeding progress and address any concerns.

Track breastfeeding success and challenges, documenting all interactions and feedback in client records, as required by the WIC program.

Collaborate with WIC nutritionists and lactation consultants to develop appropriate care plans for mothers in need of additional support or referrals.

Encourage community participation by leading or assisting in breastfeeding education sessions, support groups, and prenatal classes.
Provide breastfeeding education materials and resources to help increase awareness and engagement in breastfeeding support services.
Participate in local health fairs, workshops, and other outreach activities to promote the WIC program and breastfeeding as a key component of infant health.

Work closely with WIC staff, including nutritionists, generalists, and supervisors to ensure coordinated care and support for breastfeeding mothers.
Participate in team meetings and training sessions to stay informed about current breastfeeding guidelines, resources, and WIC program updates.

Maintain client confidentiality and adhere to all WIC program policies, guidelines, and ethical standards.

Participate in regular program training and professional development to stay updated on best practices in nutrition and maternal-child health.

Document interactions and outcomes in compliance with WIC regulations and state/federal standards.

Adhere to organization's policy regarding absenteeism and appearance.

Qualifications

Education: NJ state breastfeeding peer counselor training program (required after hire and will be provided by the WIC agency)
Experience: Past or present personal experience with breastfeeding (required).
Skills: Strong communication skills with the ability to effectively provide support and encouragement to breastfeeding mothers Ability to build trust and rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds Comfortable working independently, managing a caseload, and maintaining regular follow-up with clients Valid driver's license and auto insurance Basic computer skills Bilingual (English and Spanish-speaking) required
Physical Requirements: Ability to engage in in-person visits with clients, which may include occasional lifting and moving of materials. Must be able to communicate effectively over the phone, virtually, and in-person.

In compliance with New Jersey's Pay Transparency Act, the compensation range for this position is USD $16.00 to USD $24.00. When determining an offer, VNA Health Group considers factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate's work experience, education/training, relevant skills, internal pay equity, and market and organizational conditions. For more details about our benefits, please visit our Careers page.

VNA Health Group provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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WIC Program Breastfeeding Peer Counselor