The Mission of the Berrien County Health Department is to prevent disease, prolong life, protect the health of the community, and promote an optimal quality of life for the citizens of Berrien County. Berrien County Health Department is currently hiring for Breastfeeding Peer Counselor to join our team in Benton Harbor or Niles Michigan! The Breastfeeding Peer Counselor is responsible for encourage women to breastfeed, empower mothers to solve breastfeeding problems, support and encourage breastfeeding women, and help women feel like great mothers to their babies.

Compensation:

$30,212 - $34,975 FULL

TIME 37.5 HOURS PER WEEK

Berrien County Employee Benefits A career with the Berrien County Health Department provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a County Employee you and your family can have access to the following: Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance Dental and Vision Reimbursement or BCBS Insurance enrollment Employee Mental Health Assistance Program (EAP) Berrien County Pension/ Employee Retirement Plan 12 Paid Holidays per year Paid Time off Paid Sick Time Public Service Loan forgiveness

Life Insurance Job Responsibilities:

Builds and maintains a caseload of WIC women (pregnant and breastfeeding mothers). Minimum caseload requirements will be determined by the local WIC agency (with input from the state assigned lactation consultant). Makes routine periodic contacts with all assigned mothers. Gives basic breastfeeding information and support to new mothers, including overcoming common barriers, and getting a good start with breastfeeding. She also helps mothers prevent and handle common breastfeeding concerns. Counsels WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers by telephone, home visits, clinic visits, and/or hospital visits at scheduled intervals determined by the local WIC program. Establishes an effective working relationship with local hospitals and agencies as appropriate. Teaches breastfeeding classes and/or recruits mothers at WIC clinics. Follows up on all client referrals and keeps accurate records of services provided to WIC participants. Follows hospital procedures when visiting mothers in the hospital. Helps organize a local breastfeeding support group/mom's club. Requests and receives technical assistance from a state assigned lactation consultant. Where feasible, identify local lactation consultants for on-going technical assistance. Counsels and supports clients in their infant feeding plan by office appointment, home visit, breastfeeding clinic visit or telephone. Requests information from designated WIC staff or lactation consultant when unsure of what to do. Functions within a community team, members of the team might include, but are not limited to MSUE, Breastfeeding Initiative Peer Counselor, MIHP staff, hospital staff, lactation consultants, or LaLeche League leaders. Refers clients to other breastfeeding resources and/or health professionals when needed. Maintains strict client confidentiality.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education :

High school graduation (or G.E.D.)

Experience :

Has significant personal breastfeeding experience (does not have to be currently breastfeeding)

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) /or Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) Possession of a valid vehicle operator's license and a vehicle is required. In times of a public health emergency, may be required to report for specialized assigned duties inside or outside of Berrien County.

Pay:

$30,212.00 - $34,975.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Application Question(s): Do you have personal experience in breastfeeding?

Work Location:

In person