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Lactation Counselor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Medasource

RN - Cardiovascular OR (Travel)

Portland, OR · On-site

$2.7K - $3.6K/wk

... lactation, and related conditions), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable ... We also offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that provides services like virtual counseling ...

Medasource

RN - Neonatal (Travel)

Portland, OR · On-site

... lactation, and related conditions), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable ... We also offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that provides services like virtual counseling ...

Medasource

RN - Cath Lab (Travel)

Portland, OR · On-site

... lactation, and related conditions), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable ... We also offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that provides services like virtual counseling ...

Medasource

RN - EP Lab (Travel)

Portland, OR · On-site

... lactation, and related conditions), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable ... We also offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that provides services like virtual counseling ...

Northwest Permanente

Pediatrician

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$125K/yr

In this role, you will join a collaborative team of two experienced Pediatricians and have access to robust onsite support, including Mental Health Counselors, Optometrists, and a dedicated Lactation ...

All JobsLactation Counselor JobsLactation Counselor Jobs in Portland, OR

Lactation Counselor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$18

$22

$27

How much do lactation counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for lactation counselor in Portland, OR is $22.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $24.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lactation counselor do?

As a lactation counselor, you assist and educate patients on breastfeeding their babies. Your responsibilities include educating patients about infant nutrition, assisting new moms in getting their baby to latch onto their breast properly to consume milk, providing advanced breastfeeding education and support when it is necessary, and helping moms learn how to operate and maintain their mechanical breast pump. Other duties include providing information about WIC and other nutritional support services, referring patients to other breastfeeding professionals when it is necessary, helping moms hold their baby in the right position when they are breastfeeding, and teaching mothers how to properly establish a milk supply and express breast milk during feedings.

What does a lactation counselor do?

A lactation counselor is a trained professional who provides support, education, and guidance to breastfeeding mothers and their families. They help address common breastfeeding challenges, such as latching difficulties, milk supply issues, and nipple pain. Lactation counselors also offer practical tips for successful breastfeeding and can refer mothers to more specialized help if needed. Their goal is to promote healthy breastfeeding practices and support families throughout their breastfeeding journey.

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

To thrive as a Lactation Counselor, you need a solid understanding of human lactation, infant nutrition, and counseling techniques, typically supported by a relevant certification such as Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) or International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Familiarity with patient documentation systems, breastfeeding assessment tools, and educational resources is essential. Excellent interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and patience help build trust with new parents and navigate diverse family dynamics. These skills are crucial for providing effective guidance, supporting successful breastfeeding, and promoting positive health outcomes for both mother and child.

What are the most common challenges faced by lactation counselors when supporting new parents, and how are they typically addressed?

Lactation Counselors often encounter challenges such as addressing breastfeeding difficulties (like latching issues or low milk supply), managing parents' emotional stress, and navigating cultural or familial expectations. To overcome these, counselors use evidence-based techniques, active listening, and personalized education to empower parents. Collaboration with nurses, pediatricians, and other healthcare professionals is also common, ensuring comprehensive support for both parent and infant. Ongoing professional development and peer support help counselors stay updated and manage complex cases effectively.

What is the difference between Lactation Counselor vs Lactation Consultant?

AspectLactation CounselorLactation Consultant
CredentialsTypically requires certification from organizations like the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) or similar, often with additional training in breastfeeding supportMust hold IBCLC certification, which requires extensive training, clinical hours, and passing the IBCLC exam
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community health centers, private practiceHospitals, clinics, private practice, public health agencies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by healthcare providers, community organizations, and lactation support programsRecognized as a healthcare professional with advanced certification, often involved in complex cases

While both Lactation Counselors and Lactation Consultants support breastfeeding mothers, Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) have more extensive training and certification, enabling them to handle more complex breastfeeding issues. Lactation Counselors often provide basic support and education, making them accessible for general breastfeeding assistance.

What do you need to be a lactation counselor?

To become a lactation counselor, individuals typically need to complete specialized training in lactation support, such as a certification from organizations like the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) or similar programs. Many roles also require a background in healthcare, such as nursing or midwifery, along with strong communication skills and a compassionate approach. Certification and ongoing education are often necessary to maintain credentials and stay current with best practices.
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The top searched job categories for Lactation Counselor jobs in Portland, OR are:

Lactation Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lactation Counselor job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,998 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

RN - Cardiovascular OR (Travel)

Medasource

Portland, OR • On-site

$2.7K - $3.6K/wk

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Disclaimer: Brooksource, Medasource, and Calculated Hire are part of the Eight Eleven Group family of companies and operate under Eight Eleven Group, LLC. All employees receive the same benefits, policies, and terms of employment.
EEO:
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, citizenship, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation, and related conditions), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Benefits & Perks:
Medasource offers competitive medical, dental, vision, Health Savings Account, Dependent Care FSA, and supplemental coverage with plans that can fit each employee's needs. We offer a 401k plan that includes a company match and is fully vested after you become eligible, paid time off, sick time, and paid company holidays. We also offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that provides services like virtual counseling, financial services, legal services, life coaching, etc.
Pay Disclaimer:
The pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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