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Breastfeeding Counselor Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

NUTRITIONIST WIC

Rochester, NY · On-site

$22.52 - $28/hr

Stay up to date on current Nutrition and Breastfeeding topics by obtaining 12 continuing education ... counseling within a community health setting is required • Additionally, a minimum of one year of ...

NUTRITIONIST WIC

Rochester, NY · On-site

$22.52 - $28/hr

Stay up to date on current Nutrition and Breastfeeding topics by obtaining 12 continuing education ... counseling within a community health setting is required · Additionally, a minimum of one year of ...

Breastfeeding Counselor information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$12

$23

$33

How much do breastfeeding counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for breastfeeding counselor in Rochester, NY is $23.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $25.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a breastfeeding counselor?

Breastfeeding Counselors are trained professionals who provide support, information, and guidance to new and expectant mothers about breastfeeding. They help address common breastfeeding challenges, offer practical advice on latching and positioning, and encourage mothers to meet their breastfeeding goals. These counselors may work in hospitals, clinics, or community settings, and often collaborate with lactation consultants and healthcare providers. Their role is essential in promoting the health and well-being of both mothers and babies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a breastfeeding counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Breastfeeding Counselor, you need a solid understanding of lactation, infant nutrition, and counseling practices, often supported by certification such as IBCLC or CLC. Familiarity with lactation assessment tools, breastfeeding support resources, and electronic record-keeping systems is typical. Outstanding interpersonal skills, patience, and cultural sensitivity help counselors build trust and provide empathetic guidance to diverse families. These skills ensure effective support for mothers and infants, leading to better breastfeeding outcomes and overall family well-being.

What are some common challenges breastfeeding counselors face when supporting new mothers, and how are they addressed?

Breastfeeding Counselors often encounter challenges such as addressing mothers' concerns about milk supply, managing latch difficulties, and overcoming cultural or familial misconceptions about breastfeeding. To address these, counselors use evidence-based techniques, provide emotional support, and collaborate closely with healthcare professionals like lactation consultants and pediatricians. Regular communication, patience, and adaptability are essential, as every family's needs and experiences can differ. Ongoing professional development also helps counselors stay updated on best practices and emerging research.

What is the difference between Breastfeeding Counselor vs Lactation Consultant?

AspectBreastfeeding CounselorLactation Consultant
CredentialsOften certified through programs like IBCLC or similar breastfeeding support certificationsMust be an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) or equivalent
Work EnvironmentCommunity clinics, hospitals, support groups, private practiceHospitals, clinics, private practice, healthcare settings
Employer & IndustryNonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, community health programsHospitals, healthcare facilities, private practices
Search & Comparison IntentPeople seeking breastfeeding support and basic counselingIndividuals seeking specialized, clinical lactation support

While both roles support breastfeeding, a Breastfeeding Counselor provides basic guidance and emotional support, often with less formal clinical training. A Lactation Consultant, especially an IBCLC, offers advanced, clinical lactation care, often in medical settings. The main difference lies in certification level and scope of practice.

Do hospitals hire breastfeeding counselors?

Yes, many hospitals hire breastfeeding counselors to support new mothers with lactation education and assistance. These professionals often work as part of maternity or maternal health teams and may require certification in lactation consulting or breastfeeding support.

How long does it take to become a breastfeeding counselor?

Becoming a breastfeeding counselor typically requires completing a training program that lasts from a few days to several weeks, depending on the certification level and organization. Many programs include coursework on lactation management, counseling skills, and clinical practice, and some require prior healthcare experience or certification. Certification from organizations like the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) may also be necessary for advanced roles.

How to become a breastfeeding counselor?

To become a breastfeeding counselor, individuals typically complete a training program approved by a recognized organization such as the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) or the Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice (ALPP). Certification or credentialing often requires completing coursework, gaining practical experience, and passing an exam, with some roles also requiring a background in healthcare or related fields.

What are popular job titles related to Breastfeeding Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Breastfeeding Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Breastfeeding Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Breastfeeding Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Breastfeeding Counselor jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Breastfeeding Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Breastfeeding Counselor job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% As Needed, and 75% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,157 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor, PT (Livingston County Residents Only)

Livingston County, NY

Geneseo, NY • On-site

$18.23/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Salary: $18.23 Hourly
Location : Murray Hill Campus (Mount Morris, New York)
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Number: 202601256
Department: Civil Service
Opening Date: 07/17/2026
Closing Date: 12/31/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Description
RESIDENCY- Candidates must have been legal residents of the following jurisdiction(s) for at least four months immediately preceding the date of the application:
  • Livingston County

The work involves responsibility for providing basic breastfeeding information, providing support, and encouraging prenatal and breastfeeding program participants to initiate and continue breastfeeding. This is non-technical work involving the presentation of basic breastfeeding information and encouragement to Livingston County Women, Infants, and Children Supplemental Nutrition Program (WIC) participants. An incumbent will work with program participants to help them meet their breastfeeding goals. Incumbents are placed in frequent, recurring public contact situations and must be able to function both efficiently and courteously. Incumbents must be willing and accessible to work outside clinic hours as needed. Work is performed in the office and in the field. Supervision of others is not a responsibility of this class. The work is performed under the direct supervision of the WIC Program Coordinator. A WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor does related work as assigned.
Examples of Duties
  • Provides basic breastfeeding information and support to pregnant and breastfeeding program participants, including but not limited to benefits of breastfeeding, overcoming common barriers and concerns, and getting a good start with breastfeeding;
  • Is available to program participants outside of usual clinic hours and outside the clinic environment;
  • Makes routine periodic contact with all program participants assigned to caseload;
  • Counsels prenatal and postpartum program participants via email, phone, home visits, hospital visits, and in-person meetings at scheduled intervals determined by the WIC Program;
  • Maintains availability outside the WIC Clinic and the usual 8:00 am - 4:00 pm workday to new program participants who are having breastfeeding problems;
  • Refers program participants to the WIC Program Nutritionist, their medical provider, or other community resources as necessary;
  • Follows up on program participant referrals in a timely manner;
  • Respects each program participant by keeping their information strictly confidential;
  • Keeps accurate records of all contacts made with program participants;
  • Documents participant referrals;
  • Attends and assists with prenatal classes and breastfeeding support groups;
  • Attends monthly staff meetings;
  • Attends breastfeeding conferences/workshops, as assigned;
  • Reads assigned books and materials about breastfeeding that are provided by supervisor;
  • May assist in promoting breastfeeding peer counseling through special projects and duties as assigned;
  • Meets regularly with supervisor to report activities and program participant progress; and
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: General knowledge of breastfeeding principles and practices; ability to get along with others; ability to maintain confidentiality; ability to secure the cooperation of the program participants; ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions; ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; ability to understand and empathize with the needs and concerns of program participants; ability to maintain records; ability to speak effectively in public; tact; courtesy; initiative; enthusiasm. The employee's physical and mental condition shall be commensurate with the demands of the position, either with or without reasonable accommodations.
Typical Qualifications
Applicants must meet all requirements described in the following table in order to be approved for examination and/or appointment:Qualification Option #1Training/Education
  • Possession of a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma.
General experience
  • A former, current, or eligible WIC participant; AND
  • Has breastfed at least one baby.
Supervisory experience
  • N.A.
License/Certification
  • See Special Qualifications below.
Other requirements
  • See Special Qualifications below.

WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor - C in all divisions
Supplemental Information
  1. Access to reliable cell phone service, which may be used to perform job duties, must be maintained throughout employment.
  2. Must be available to WIC program participants outside of clinic hours and outside the clinic environment.
  3. Appointee must attend breastfeeding training classes to become a peer counselor within two (2) months of employment.
  4. Appointee must complete the USDA FNS WIC Breastfeeding Curriculum training within two (2) months of employment.
  5. Appointee is required to complete six (6) hours of continuing education every year

NOTE: Minimum Qualifications mandated by mandated by 7 CFR §246.2 as interpreted by the NYS DOH in its WIC Program Manual §1460.
PROVISIONAL APPOINTMENT NOTICE:
An individual who receives a provisional appointment must take the examination for the position title on the next occasion it is offered. In order to be eligible for a permanent appointment to the position, the provisional appointee must pass the exam and be ranked 1, 2, 3, or be tied in score with the individual ranked number 3 of those who are willing to accept appointment to the position. It should be understood that even if the provisional appointee is eligible for appointment, the employer may choose another candidate to fill the position on a permanent basis. Questions regarding provisional appointments should be directed to the Livingston County Human Resources Department.
Livingston County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Livingston County offers certain benefits that are available to all County employees.
This includes a variety of benefits that include - but are not limited to: the option to participate in the New York State Retirement System, employee wellness offerings, access to the employee assistance plan, and more.
For full details view the benefits guide here:
01
Are you a former, current, or eligible WIC participant?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Have you breastfed at least one baby?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question