WIC Nutritionist

Purpose of Position

Under general supervision of the Director of the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program provides nutrition services and education to individuals and families enrolled in the WIC Program following WIC state policy 10.21. This position offers the opportunity to advance to Breastfeeding Peer Coordinator and assume all responsibilities for assuring quality breastfeeding promotion and support services including the breastfeeding Peer Counselor program following WIC state policy 10.21.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Analytical/Assessment Skills

• Decisions within area of responsibility are made independently.

• Perform computer applications skills using the Wisconsin WIC program system (ROSIE). 

• Review WIC computer-generated reports on an ongoing basis and utilize for program evaluation, QA, needs assessment, and coordination/integration with other agencies.

• Audit charts of other staff members for completeness/follow-up on high-risk care.

• Makes appropriate referrals using professional judgement. 

• Evaluate potential participant nutritional status.

• Identify and prioritize health and dietary risk factors.

• BF Coordinator will also act as the Designated Breastfeeding Expert (DBE). Will work to obtain the highest knowledge of breastfeeding and will be used as the go-to resource for breastfeeding concerns. 

Policy Development/Program Planning Skills

• Utilize reports to help in maintaining caseload. 

• Help in coordinating and planning outreach efforts.

• Implement all breastfeeding policies as stated in the WIC Operations Manual. Ensure that all practices and procedures are consistent with WIC regulations, policies, and procedures. 

• Establish and manage peer counselor program. Implement all peer counselor program policies as stated in the WIC Operations Manual.  Mentor peer counselor, and provide ongoing support. Supervise and monitor the peer counselor’s activity and program outcomes.

• Help in the planning process for the annual breastfeeding celebration. 

Community Dimensions of Practice Skills

• Maintain a work environment that supports and accommodates the needs of breastfeeding participants, their infants and families.

• Work with other agencies/programs to promote community health; including outreach efforts to promote the WIC program.

• Utilize breastfeeding reports for assessing and planning of breastfeeding services.

• Participate in local breastfeeding coalitions and initiatives. Establish relationship with community partners.

Public Health Science Skills

• Perform health assessment, including height/weight, hemoglobin, lead and appropriate health counseling.

• Have a role in promoting and providing support for the successful initiation and continuation of breastfeeding.

• Keep abreast of latest nutrition and breastfeeding trends and research. Attend educational and training programs as needed. Obtaining at least 75 hours of continuing education every 5 years per identified training needs.

• Initiate referrals to appropriate health care and social service providers as needed.

• Respond to Public Health emergencies, as needed, including outside regular office hours.

Direct Service Skill

• Responsible for completing all phases of client enrollment in the WIC program, including individual’s needs assessment using person-centered principles. Certify, refer and follow up high risk individuals.

• Provide nutrition counseling for qualifying women, infants and children; counsels high risk individuals concerning various health issues.  Provide education services to WIC mothers related to breast-feeding.

• Assist support staff with client applications, scheduling appointments, answering phone, etc.

• Other duties may be required and assigned, including responding to an emergency event.

Minimum Training and Experience Required to Perform Essential Job Functions

Refer to 10.21 Nutrition Services Staffing: Qualifications, Roles, and Responsibilities

• Bachelor or Associate Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics or related field from an accredited University. DTR (Dietetic Technician Registered)/RDN (Registered Dietitian Nutritionist) or registry eligible preferred. Preference given to RDN. 
• Minimum of one-year experience in a clinic, hospital setting or WIC clinic is preferred. 
• Experience with Breastfeeding desired; Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) or International Board-Certified Lactation Counselor (IBCLC) preferred.
• Valid Wisconsin driver’s license and car insurance. 

Fond du Lac County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.