JOB SUMMARY
The Lactation Consultant provides breastfeeding education, counseling, and support to postpartum mothers participating in the PWDC program. This role focuses on promoting healthy infant feeding practices and supporting maternal confidence in breastfeeding.
The Lactation Consultant works closely with program staff, including clinicians, case managers, doulas, and peer recovery specialists, to ensure mothers receive coordinated care that supports maternal health and infant development.
Services may be delivered in clinical settings or in the community, including participant homes, depending on program needs.
JOB DUTIES
Lactation Support and Counseling
- Provide breastfeeding education and counseling to pregnant and postpartum mothers.
- Assess breastfeeding challenges and provide practical solutions and support.
- Demonstrate proper breastfeeding techniques and positioning.
- Provide guidance on milk production, pumping, and infant feeding schedules.
Maternal and Infant Health Education
- Educate mothers on the benefits of breastfeeding for both maternal and infant health.
- Provide guidance on infant nutrition and feeding practices.
- Support mothers in building confidence in breastfeeding and infant care.
Postpartum Support
- Conduct follow-up consultations to address breastfeeding concerns and monitor progress.
- Provide education on common breastfeeding challenges such as latching difficulties, milk supply issues, and infant feeding concerns.
Care Coordination
- Collaborate with doulas, clinicians, case managers, and other program staff.
- Refer mothers to medical providers or additional support services when appropriate.
Documentation and Compliance
- Maintain accurate documentation of lactation services provided.
- Ensure documentation meets organizational and program standards.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Maternal and Child Health, Public Health, Nutrition, or a related field.
- Certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or equivalent credential preferred.
- Minimum one (1) to three (3) years of experience providing lactation counseling or maternal health support.
- Experience working with postpartum mothers and infants.
- Experience providing breastfeeding education and support in clinical or community settings.
- Knowledge of breastfeeding techniques, maternal health, and infant nutrition
- Ability to provide hands-on breastfeeding guidance and education
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work with diverse populations including mothers experiencing behavioral health or recovery challenges
- Valid Illinois Driver’s License
- Reliable transportation for community visits or home-based consultations when required.
- Ability to pass required background checks.
SMART GOALS
- Ability to demonstrate breastfeeding techniques and infant positioning
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while providing consultations and education
- Ability to travel within the community to conduct home visits or consultations when required
- Ability to lift and carry materials or supplies weighing up to 15 pounds
- Ability to communicate effectively with participants, staff, and healthcare providers
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Ability to travel to hospitals and homes
- Ability to stand for extended periods during labor support
- Ability to lift and carry materials up to 15 pounds
BENEFITS & COMPENSATION
Hourly Rate: $36.06
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Contributions
- Paid Time Off (PTO) & Paid Holidays
- Life Insurance & Disability Coverage
- Tuition Reimbursement & Professional Development Opportunities
- Wellness Programs & Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
Occupational Risk for Exposure to TB:
There is an occupational risk for exposure to TB, as this position involves extensive community and patient contact. Employees in this role are required to comply with annual TB testing as part of workplace health and safety protocols. The only acceptable exceptions to this requirement are documented medical contraindications or religious objections. Employees who decline TB testing will be required to wear a mask when deemed necessary.
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement
Friend Health – HRDI is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, marital or parental status, sexual orientation including gender identity, gender expression, military discharge status, physical or mental disability, or any other status or characteristic protected by law. In addition, Friend Health – HRDI provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws (including during the application or hiring process). Friend Health - HRDI supports the Pay Transparency Law as an equal opportunity employer.
Join Our Team!
Friend Health – HRDI believes that early maternal and infant health support plays a critical role in building strong and healthy families. Through the PWDC Program, mothers receive comprehensive services that support recovery, maternal wellness, and healthy infant development.
We are seeking a knowledgeable Lactation Consultant who is passionate about supporting mothers and infants through breastfeeding education and counseling. In this role, you will help mothers build confidence in breastfeeding, address challenges, and promote positive maternal and infant health outcomes.