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Lactation Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Lactation Specialist is responsible for assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating lactation plans for the breastfeeding parent, and is fully collaborative with the patient and the patient ...

Assesses patients' lactation needs by obtaining medical histories, examining patients, and gathering information about the baby and family setting. * Analyzes and documents physical, psychological ...

Assesses patients' lactation needs by obtaining medical histories, examining patients, and gathering information about the baby and family setting. * Analyzes and documents physical, psychological ...

Provides professional nursing care and lactation services within Bayhealth. Professional nursing practices, requiring specialized knowledge judgement and skill are performed using the process in ...

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Lactation Specialist information

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$56

How much do lactation specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for lactation specialist in the United States is $30.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $35.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lactation specialist?

A Lactation Specialist is a healthcare professional trained to help mothers and families with breastfeeding and lactation concerns. They provide education, practical support, and solutions for issues like latching difficulties, milk supply, and breastfeeding pain. Lactation Specialists can work in hospitals, clinics, or private practice, offering both in-person and virtual consultations. They may hold certifications such as International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Their goal is to support families in achieving their breastfeeding goals and improving infant nutrition and health.

What does a lactation specialist do?

A lactation specialist, also called a lactation consultant, provides support and information for mothers who are having difficulty nursing their babies. As a lactation specialist, you work with mothers who have latching problems, painful nursing, or low milk production. You also provide support to discouraged moms and help them find ways to boost milk production or alleviate some discomfort. Lactation specialists often work one-on-one, but some run group classes at health care facilities or hospitals.

What skills and qualifications does a lactation specialist need?

To thrive as a Lactation Specialist, you need in-depth knowledge of breastfeeding techniques, infant nutrition, and lactation physiology, typically supported by certification such as International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Familiarity with hospital record systems, breast pump equipment, and lactation assessment tools is essential. Outstanding interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to educate and support new mothers are important soft skills. These abilities ensure effective support for breastfeeding families, promote infant health, and foster positive patient outcomes.

What are common challenges a lactation specialist faces when supporting new mothers, and how are they typically addressed?

Lactation Specialists often encounter challenges such as helping mothers manage low milk supply, latch difficulties, or breastfeeding pain. These issues can be emotionally taxing for families, so specialists use a compassionate and patient approach, providing hands-on guidance and evidence-based solutions. Collaboration with pediatricians and other healthcare providers is common to ensure comprehensive care. Continuous education and strong communication skills are essential for addressing each family's unique needs and fostering a supportive environment.

What is the difference between Lactation Specialist vs Lactation Consultant?

AspectLactation SpecialistLactation Consultant
CredentialsOften requires certification such as IBCLC or related trainingTypically requires IBCLC certification or equivalent
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community health centersPrivate practice, hospitals, lactation centers
Employer & IndustryHealthcare facilities, public health programsHealthcare providers, private practices, hospitals
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to overlapping roles and certificationsConsidered a more advanced or specialized role

Both Lactation Specialists and Lactation Consultants work to support breastfeeding mothers, often with similar certifications like IBCLC. However, Lactation Consultants typically have more extensive training and work in more specialized settings. The roles are closely related, with Consultants often providing advanced clinical support.

What degree do you need to be a lactation specialist?

To become a lactation specialist, individuals typically need a healthcare-related degree such as a registered nurse (RN), licensed practical nurse (LPN), or a healthcare professional with a background in maternal and child health. Additionally, certification through organizations like the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) often requires completing specific training programs and gaining clinical experience. Formal education and certification are essential for practicing as a lactation consultant or specialist.

What cities are hiring for Lactation Specialist jobs?

Cities with the most Lactation Specialist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Lactation Specialist jobs?

The most popular types of Lactation Specialist jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Lactation Specialist jobs?

The top employers for Lactation Specialist jobs are:

What states have the most Lactation Specialist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lactation Specialist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Lactation Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,822 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

Lactation Specialist

Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital

Santa Clarita, CA • On-site

$33.71 - $53.93/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 10 days ago


Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 1,059 rated hospitals


Job description

Job Brief
1 Opening
Pay Range: LACTATION SPECIALIST - $33.71 TO $53.93
Your Work Here Matters. Your Career Here Thrives.
Imagine coming to work every day knowing that what you do genuinely changes lives. At Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, that's not just a tagline - it's the reality for every member of our team.
We're not just a hospital. We're the heartbeat of the Santa Clarita Valley - a 357-bed, not-for-profit Level II Trauma Center that has been a trusted pillar of this community since 1975. And we're looking for passionate, driven professionals who want to be part of something bigger than themselves.
Where Clinical Excellence Meets Cutting-Edge Care
Here, you'll work alongside an award-winning team delivering some of the most advanced medical services in the region, including:
  • Comprehensive heart and vascular care
  • Advanced stroke treatment
  • Cancer care in partnership with Keck Medicine of USC
  • Women's imaging and breast health services
  • Emergency and trauma care
  • Cardiac rehabilitation and wellness programs

As a key part of Los Angeles County's STEMI receiving network, we provide lifesaving cardiac intervention through our state-of-the-art Roberta G. Veloz Cardiac Cath Lab. We continuously invest in the latest technology and innovation - which means you'll always be working at the forefront of modern medicine.
A Culture You'll Be Proud to Be Part Of
Our vision - To Be the Most Patient-Centric Hospital Anywhere - drives everything we do. But it's our people who make that vision a reality. Physicians, nurses, staff, and volunteers come together here in a culture rooted in compassion, collaboration, and excellence.
When you join Henry Mayo, you're not just accepting a job offer. You're joining a family that genuinely cares - about our patients, our community, and you.
Located in Beautiful Valencia, California
Nestled in the vibrant Santa Clarita Valley, you'll enjoy an exceptional quality of life both inside and outside of work - with top-rated schools, scenic surroundings, and a welcoming community that generations of families proudly call home.
Ready to make your mark? Join the team that's been setting the standard for compassionate, innovative healthcare for nearly 50 years. Your next great chapter starts here.
Job Summary:
The Lactation Specialist works in collaboration with the direct nursing staff and the physician to assist the patient in achieving a satisfactory start to successful breastfeeding; and assisting with the implementation of short and long range goals applying to breastfeeding that are identified by the nursing staff providing direct patient care.
What You'll Bring to the Team:
  • Ability to work effectively and harmoniously with others.
  • Able to manage own time and work independently.
  • Demonstrates specialized knowledge and skills in the area of lactation
  • Baby friendly experience

Licensure and Certification:
  • Current BLS provider card required

Education:
  • High School graduate, GED or equivalent.
  • Graduate of a recognized Lactation education certification program (CLE) and or Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
  • Member of professional organization preferred.

Experience:
  • One (1) year experience in acute care as a lactation consultant.
  • Working as a lactation specialist in an outpatient center is preferred.

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