A Health and Wellness Coach works with clients to establish goals for improving their health and helps them to follow healthy behaviors. Coaches and supports clients; may focus on fitness, nutrition, stress management or other issues that affect health and wellness.
South Carolina; mix of on-site (centers/home visits), community events, and limited remote; regular in-state travel within SCACAP service area
Compensation:
$3,500 a month
Funding:
Grant-funded, non-recurring Position Summary The Nutrition Coach provides one-on-one, culturally responsive coaching to families with dietary restrictions, chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension), and/or obesity risk . The role focuses on practical behavior change, healthy meal planning on a budget, care navigation, and linkage to resources—while aligning with USDA Child Nutrition Guidelines and Head Start/EHS requirements. Key Responsibilities Individual Coaching & Care Navigation Provide 1:1 sessions (in person/telehealth/phone) using motivational interviewing and SMART goal-setting. Tailor guidance for food allergies/intolerances , medically prescribed diets, and chronic condition management plans in collaboration with families' healthcare providers. Create simple family-friendly meal plans and shopping lists aligned to budget, culture, and preferences. Coordinate referrals to RDs/MDs, WIC, SNAP-Ed, community pantries, and local wellness resources. Education & Engagement Deliver brief, skills-based micro-sessions (label reading, portion sizes, sugar-sweetened beverage swaps, lunchbox ideas). Support parent engagement events and community wellness activities in partnership with NHE staff. Documentation, Data & Compliance Document encounters, goals, and outcomes in approved systems (e.g., ChildPlus or agency database); protect PII/PHI per policy. Track attendance, goal progress, referrals, and follow-up; contribute to monthly/quarterly reporting. Follow Head Start Program Performance Standards, USDA child nutrition requirements, and SCACAP policies. Collaboration Partner with the NHE Manager, Registered Dietitians, Family Advocates, Health/Nutrition staff, and community partners to align plans and avoid duplication. Surface family feedback and barriers (transportation, food access, language) and propose practical solutions.
Minimum Qualifications Education:
Associate's or bachelor's degree in Nutrition, Public Health, Health Education, or related field; equivalent experience considered.
Experience:
1-3+ years in nutrition coaching, community health, health education, or related family-facing role.
Skills:
Motivational interviewing, goal-setting, cultural humility, strong communication, documentation accuracy, basic data entry/reporting.
Licenses/Access:
Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and ability to travel in-state.
Compliance:
Ability to maintain confidentiality; familiarity with
HIPAA/FERPA
concepts. Preferred Qualifications Certification/credential such as CHW , Health Coach , DTR , CNS/CNS-S , or experience working under RD guidance. Experience with Head Start/Early Head Start populations or pediatric/community nutrition. Familiarity with ChildPlus or similar data systems. Bilingual (English/Spanish or other prevalent language). Knowledge of food access resources, SNAP/WIC, and community partnerships in South Carolina. Core Competencies Family-centered, strengths-based approach; trauma-informed and culturally responsive. Clear, plain-language communication and teach-back methods. Organization and time management across caseloads, travel, and events. Professional boundaries and confidentiality. Collaboration and problem-solving. Success Metrics (Examples) % of families with a documented coaching plan and SMART goals within 30 days of enrollment. Goal attainment (e.g., sugary drink reduction, fruit/vegetable servings, consistent breakfast). Referral follow-through and closed-loop feedback (WIC, RD consults, community resources). Attendance/retention in coaching sessions and satisfaction scores. Timely, accurate documentation and contribution to monthly/quarterly reports. Work Environment & Physical Requirements Frequent local travel to sites, homes, and community events; ability to lift/transport educational materials (~20 lbs). Occasional evenings/weekends for parent events and health fairs. Ability to maintain professional conduct in homes, centers, and community settings. Background Check & Other Requirements Pre-employment background check, motor vehicle report, and reference check required per SCACAP policy. Proof of work eligibility in the U.S. Adherence to SCACAP policies, mandatory trainings, and safety procedures.
