Peer Counselor Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

POSITION DEFINITION The Town of East Harford is seeking an enthusiastic WIC peer counselor. This position provides basic lactation information, encouragement, and support to pregnant and breastfeeding participants in the WIC program. Peer Counselors are individuals who have personal experience with breastfeeding and are trained to offer guidance to others with whom they share similar socioeconomic backgrounds, language, culture, or lived experiences.

The Peer Counselor reinforces breastfeeding recommendations in a socially and culturally appropriate manner, promotes breastfeeding as an essential component of healthy child development, and performs related duties as assigned. Works under the general supervision of the WIC Coordinator. specific *****Eligibility criteria, including currently breastfeeding or having breastfed at least one baby for a minimum of six months.

The candidate is recruited and hired from the local WIC target population. Rate: $19.50 per hour 20-25 hours a week Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement: The Town of East Hartford proudly stands as an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to fostering a work environment free from discrimination. We firmly uphold the principles of equality, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws

Our commitment to inclusivity and diversity is unwavering, and we enthusiastically encourage applicants from all walks of life to join our team. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Provide lactation support through one-on-one counseling via phone calls, text messages, and/or in-person meetings at a WIC clinic Offer basic lactation information, including breastfeeding benefits, overcoming barriers, and supporting a successful start Assist clients with common breastfeeding challenges (sore nipples, latch issues, milk supply concerns, infant weight gain, etc.) Manage a caseload of WIC participants and maintain regular contact with assigned clients Maintain accurate records of all client interactions and contacts Maintain ongoing communication with the WIC Lactation Specialist and Nutrition Specialist Assist with promotion of the peer program or breastfeeding classes as directed by WIC specialists Read assigned study materials provided by WIC Lactation and Nutrition Specialists Attend all required training sessions and monthly Peer Breastfeeding Counselor staff meetings Ability to communicate clearly both orally and in writing Ability to establish rapport with individuals and small groups Shares common characteristics with the majority of WIC participants served at the local agency, including socioeconomic background and language Speaks the commonly used language of the WIC participants served KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES Knowledge of basic lactation principles and common breastfeeding challenges Knowledge of WIC Program goals and services Skill in providing one-on-one breastfeeding support by phone, text, and in-person Skill in helping clients address common breastfeeding issues (latch, milk supply, comfort, weight gain) Must be enthusiastic about breastfeeding and helping mothers enjoy a positive breastfeeding experience. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

Ability to maintain thorough and accurate program records. Knowledge of the use of personal computers and smart phones. Ability to gain awareness of Federal and State WIC policies and procedures.

Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with program participants, co-workers and external health and social service agencies. Must be able to work independently and with others in the WIC office. JOB QUALIFICATIONS AND LICENSING Must be a High School graduate (High School diploma) or the equivalent.

Must successfully complete USDA breastfeeding curriculum (after hired as part of the training process). Must be a WIC client or past client who has breastfed at least one child for six months. Fluent in English and Spanish is required.