breastfeeding peer counselor

PN: 37484

Applications Accepted From: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED

Division: HUMAN SERVICES

Section: WIC PROGRAM

Location: Various WIC Locations

Workdays & Hours: M-F, 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.; some evenings & weekends*

*Subject to change*

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Houston's Health Department is seeking a professional applicant to perform the following duties:

• Provides information and promotes the advantages of breastfeeding to WIC participants or clinic clients.
• Addresses concerns and corrects misinformation that may prevent a pregnant woman from breastfeeding.
• Identifies breastfeeding experiences that are not the norm and makes an immediate and appropriate referral.
• Counsels pregnant and breastfeeding mothers on a one-to-one basis; enables new mothers to avoid common breastfeeding problems.
• Conducts or assist with group classes, prenatal and postnatal, on the advantages and management of breastfeeding. Records counseling encounters on the forms provided by the local agency.
• Issues breast pumps according to local policy and procedure.
• Attends peer counselor meetings and WIC site meetings.
• Counsel over telephone and follow-up if necessary.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The position occasionally requires stooping or bending. Occasional very light lifting, such as three or four reams of papers or books (up to 20 pounds or an equivalent weight) may be required.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to read, write, add, subtract and follow oral and/or basic written instructions as might normally be acquired through 9 to 11 years of formal schooling. No special knowledge of any subject area or technical field is required.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Three (3) months of personal experience breastfeeding or expressing breastmilk are required.

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

Must complete the Texas WIC Designated Peer Counselor training within three months of hire. Must have a valid Texas driver's license and comply with the City of Houston's policy on driving (AP 2-2).

**Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.**

• Participation in the WIC Program preferred but not required.

SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED

None. The selection process will involve application review and/or interview.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITIONYes

If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

Pay Grade 7

SALARY INFORMATION

GRANT FUNDED

Grant positions are dependent upon continued available funds. If funding is no longer available, employee may be laid off or transferred. Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during active posting period. Applications must be submitted online at:

To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: or call

If you need special services or accommodations, call TTY

If you need login assistance or technical support call

Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.

All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.

EOE Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

Employer

City of Houston

Address

901 Bagby St

Houston, Texas, 77002

Website