NUTRITIONIST

Job Role Summary

Ability to determine client eligibility based on identified risk factors and provides nutrition education with the knowledge of social, cultural, and religious backgrounds as they relate to proper nutrition and breastfeeding for participants in the WIC Supplemental Food Program.  Utilizes federal, state, and divisional guidelines/standards to implement and evaluate client nutrition education plans.   Adheres to Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act standards as well as Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment standards established by Marion County Public Health Clinical Laboratory.  Work effectively with a multi-disciplinary team including physicians, outside agencies, and MCPHD department professionals for referral purposes and collaboration. Assists with implementation and evaluation of nutrition education program within established Federal, State and divisional guidelines and standards.

Essential Duties

• Evaluates clients’ nutritional status through analysis of anthropometrics, hemoglobin/lead measurements, relevant medical history, and client feedback from utilization of Participant Centered Service techniques. 
• Determines eligibility for WIC Program based on economic, nutritional, and medical needs. 
• Monitors immunizations of children, monitors hemoglobin and lead level and makes appropriate referrals. 
• Referrals to external organizations to obtain/provide information and services. 
• Promotes breastfeeding education to prenatal and postpartum women and provides appropriate tools such as breast pumps, nipple shields, bras, flanges, and support through utilization of Breastfeeding Peer Counselors and tools available in the clinics. 
• Participates in public health emergency preparedness exercises and in the response to public health emergencies, as directed. 
• Participate in a minimum of two H.O.P.E events totaling a minimum of eight (8) hours annually. 
• Other duties as assigned. 

Associated Job Duties

• Ability to be time sensitive with clients to maintain clinic flow.
• Maintain confidentiality of participant information based on program and Marion County Public Health Department policies and procedures.
• Facilitate group classes
• Effectively interpret Indiana WIC policies and procedures.
• Pick up clinic supplies
• Participate in Voter’s Registration procedure for WIC clinics.

Qualifications

• Access to reliable transportation

Licenses/Certifications Required

• Registered Nurse; or
• Bachelors degree in nutrition/dietetics; or
• Bachelors degree in health-related field (e.g. Health Sciences, Public Health) which includes at least 12 credit hours in nutrition
• Valid Indiana driver’s license.
   

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Flexibility to respond to changing situations/priorities
• Effective response to different situations and time limitations
• Tact/discretion in developing nutrition plans for clients.
• Computer skills in Word and Excel
   

Working Environment

• Time restraints established by the system currently used for WIC visits.
• Up and down movements for 8 hours a day.
• Ability to address the needs of stressed-out clients
• Ability to work with large volumes of women and children who may have communicable diseases
• Physical lifting
• Travel within and outside Marion County.