Lactation Consultant (County Classification: Public Health Nutritionist I/II)

The County of San Luis Obispo is committed to providing exceptional maternal and infant care, with a strong emphasis on promoting breastfeeding to support optimal health outcomes. The Public Health Department is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Lactation Consultant to join our team and support the needs of low-income families. This full-time, permanent position within the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program will serve clients in Paso Robles and Atascadero. Applicants must hold current certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). The Lactation Consultant will be eligible for a 5% pay differential for maintaining IBCLC certification. In this role, the lactation consultant will provide comprehensive lactation support for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers enrolled in the WIC program. Responsibilities include conducting infant weight checks, nursing and latch assessments, monitoring milk supply, offering reassurance and education to families, distributing and explaining the use of electric breast pumps, and more.

Examples of Duties:

Conduct comprehensive lactation assessments for mothers and infants, including evaluation of latch, milk transfer, and overall breastfeeding dynamics. Lactation consulting services are delivered primarily in-person, with occasional support provided by phone, or telehealth. Collaborate with breastfeeding peer counselors, healthcare providers, including physicians, lactation consultants, nurses, and midwives to develop and implement breastfeeding care plans. Issue electric breast pumps to WIC participants and provide clear instructions on the use and care of the departmental equipment. Refer participants to appropriate community resources to support additional needs. Accurately document lactation assessments, interventions, and outcomes in the WIC Wise system. Stay current on research, guidelines, and best practices in lactation and breastfeeding support, and integrate new knowledge into WIC service delivery. Click here to see the full job description for Public Health Nutritionist I. Click here to see the full job description for Public Health Nutritionist II. This recruitment may be used to fill future permanent, substitute, limited term, and temporary positions, both full-time and part-time throughout the County. The Ideal Candidate will have knowledge on the following areas: Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills, with the ability to identify and effectively address breastfeeding challenges. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the capacity to build rapport and trust with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds. A commitment to evidence-based practice and on-going professional development in lactation and breastfeeding support. Proficiency in using electronic medical records and related digital tools for accurate documentation and communication. Demonstrated cultural competence and cultural humility in all client interactions. Familiarity with local community-based organizations that provide health and social services for low-income families.

Minimum Qualifications:

A combination of education, training, and experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. An example of qualifying education and experience includes:

Public Health Nutritionist I:

A bachelor's or master's degree from an accredited college or university in nutrition, dietetics, or a closely related field.

Public Health Nutritionist II:

A bachelor's or master's degree from an accredited college or university in nutrition, dietetics, or a closely related field, AND valid certification as a Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Commission on Dietetic Registration. Licenses and Certificates Current certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is required at time of application and must be maintained throughout employment. A valid California Driver's license is required at the time of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment. Applications, including answers to supplemental questions, must be submitted online by the final filing date. Apply for this position at governmentjobs.com/careers/slocountyca. Most County recruitments require you to respond to supplemental questions as part of the application process. We recommend that you review these questions prior to beginning your application. Your attached resume will not substitute for the completion of the application. Please complete all required fields and supplemental questions. Be advised that while use of AI is common practice, we want to see your individual style and critical thinking skills in your answers to the supplemental questions. An initial application review will be conducted. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and are best qualified will be invited to participate in selection activities which may include online assessments, performance exams, written exams, and interviews. Final candidates will be required to have an in-depth background review performed before proceeding in the process. Please note that references will not be contacted until the end of the process. If you have questions or would like to discuss the opportunity further, please contact Human Resources at hr@co.slo.ca.us . Confidential inquiries are welcome. For further information regarding the County of San Luis Obispo, visit our website at www.slocounty.ca.gov .