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Lactation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Lactation Consultant

Arlington, VA · On-site

$42.62 - $69.04/hr

The Lactation Consultant is a professional who assumes responsibility for assessing needs, planning, implementing and evaluating breastfeeding education for lactating patients as well as nursing ...

Is accountable for providing lactation consultation and education services. Provides breastfeeding assistance, support and education to patients. Performs hands on lactation consultation services on ...

Lactation Consultant

Arlington, VA · On-site

$42.62 - $69.04/hr

The Lactation Consultant is a professional who assumes responsibility for assessing needs, planning, implementing and evaluating breastfeeding education for lactating patients as well as nursing ...

The Lactation Consultant is a professional who assumes responsibility for assessing needs, planning, implementing and evaluating breastfeeding education for lactating patients as well as nursing ...

The Lactation Consultant is a professional who assumes responsibility for assessing needs, planning, implementing and evaluating breastfeeding education for lactating patients as well as nursing ...

R160569 Lactation Consultant - RN (Open) How You'll Help Transform Healthcare: As part of the health care team, assumes primary accountability for the coordination and provision of individualized ...

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Lactation information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$41

$86

How much do lactation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lactation in Virginia is $41.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.09 and $49.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What challenges do lactation consultants face when supporting new mothers, and how can they be addressed?

Lactation consultants often encounter challenges such as addressing a wide range of breastfeeding concerns, from latching difficulties to low milk supply, as well as navigating emotional stress experienced by new mothers. Building trust and providing empathetic, evidence-based guidance are key to overcoming these obstacles. Collaboration with nurses, pediatricians, and family members is essential to ensure holistic support for mothers and infants. Staying updated on the latest lactation research and maintaining strong communication skills can help consultants deliver effective care and foster positive breastfeeding experiences.

What is a lactation consultant?

Lactation consultants are trained professionals who specialize in helping mothers and families with breastfeeding and other aspects of infant nutrition. They provide support, education, and practical assistance to address common breastfeeding challenges, such as latching difficulties, low milk supply, and nipple pain. Lactation consultants may work in hospitals, clinics, or offer private consultations, and many hold certifications such as the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Their goal is to ensure a positive and healthy breastfeeding experience for both the parent and baby.

What is the difference between Lactation vs Lactation Consultant?

AspectLactationLactation Consultant
CredentialsTypically no formal certification requiredCertified through organizations like IBCLC
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community health centersPrivate practice, hospitals, consulting agencies
Industry UsageSupport breastfeeding in various settingsProvide expert breastfeeding guidance and education
Common Search IntentGeneral breastfeeding supportSpecialized breastfeeding consultation and advice

While Lactation generally refers to the biological process of breastfeeding, Lactation Consultants are trained professionals who provide expert support and education to mothers. Lactation Consultants have specific certifications and often work in clinical or private settings, offering specialized assistance beyond basic breastfeeding support.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a lactation consultant?

To thrive as a Lactation Consultant, you need a thorough understanding of human lactation, breastfeeding techniques, and maternal-child health, typically supported by an RN or related healthcare background and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) certification. Familiarity with electronic health records, patient education resources, and breastfeeding assessment tools is essential. Compassion, active listening, and strong communication skills help build trust and support for new families. These skills ensure effective breastfeeding support, improved maternal and infant health outcomes, and a positive care experience.

Do lactation nurses get paid more?

Lactation nurses typically earn higher salaries than general nursing roles due to specialized training in breastfeeding support and lactation consultation. Their compensation can vary based on experience, certifications, and work setting, such as hospitals or private practice. Advanced skills and certifications may lead to increased pay within this field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lactation jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Lactation jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Lactation jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Lactation job openings:
Infographic showing various Lactation job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,688 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Lactation Consultant

VHC Health

Arlington, VA • On-site

$42.62 - $69.04/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


VHC Health rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Position Title
Lactation Consultant
Job Description
Purpose & Scope:
The Lactation Consultant is a professional who assumes responsibility for assessing needs, planning, implementing and evaluating breastfeeding education for lactating patients as well as nursing staff.
This requires a self-directed individual who will operate within the mission statement of Virginia Hospital Center. Additional responsibilities include educating patients who plan to breastfeed, monitoring of all infants at risk for delayed breast feeding, and assisting the high risk parent / infant pair. Other responsibilities include staff education, departmental policy and procedure development and evaluation and participation in continuing education activities. This description is intended to reflect major responsibilities of this position but is not intended to describe minor duties and other responsibilities. Major responsibilities include development and coordination of lactation related department goals, education of the medical and nursing staff and parents, and documentation of breastfeeding assessment and progress in the patient record. Regular attendance and participation in departmental committees as the breastfeeding liaison and on medical staff rounds, as applicable, will be included.
Education:
An associate degree or a bachelor's degree in a related field is required.
Experience:
One year of Women and Infant clinical experience is preferred.
Certification/Licensure:
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) required.
Licensed as a Registered Nurse by the Virginia Department of Health Professions or compact state licensure in nursing is preferred.
Additional Job Description
At VHC Health, every role contributes to exceptional care, better outcomes, and stronger communities.
\nIn addition to your base compensation, VHC Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage (subject to eligibility requirements), as well as additional wellness and retirement benefits designed to support our employees and their families.
\nVHC Health is committed to wage transparency and equitable pay practices. The compensation offered for this position-whether expressed as an annual salary or hourly rate-is determined based on a variety of legitimate, non-discriminatory factors. These factors include, but are not limited to, a candidate's qualifications, relevant training and experience, skill level, shift differentials (where applicable), internal equity, and current market conditions.
\nThe posted hiring range reflects the range VHC Health, in good faith, believes is appropriate for this role at the time of posting. This range may be adjusted in the future based on business needs or market changes. No portion of compensation is considered earned until it is vested and determined in accordance with the terms of applicable policies and benefit plans. The availability and amount of any bonuses, incentives, or other benefits are subject to the terms of those plans and may be modified at the sole discretion of VHC Health, in accordance with applicable law.
\nVHC Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.
\nVHC Health maintains a drug-free workplace. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited at all VHC Health locations.

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