Clinical Lactation Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

clinical lactation specialist job description

In the world of healthcare, the role of Clinical Lactation Specialists is increasingly vital.

As healthcare evolves, so too does the demand for dedicated professionals who can provide, enhance, and protect the breastfeeding support framework for new mothers.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected of a Clinical Lactation Specialist?

Whether you are:

  • A job seeker trying to understand the scope of this role,
  • A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
  • Or simply fascinated by the realm of lactation consultancy,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Clinical Lactation Specialist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Clinical Lactation Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Clinical Lactation Specialists are dedicated healthcare professionals who support, promote, and educate families about breastfeeding.

They utilize evidence-based practices to ensure optimal outcomes for both the mother and the infant.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

  • Providing comprehensive lactation consultations and developing individualized breastfeeding plans
  • Evaluating and addressing breastfeeding issues including latching difficulties, low milk supply, and feeding twins or premature babies
  • Teaching new mothers techniques and methods for successful breastfeeding
  • Assisting with breastfeeding problems such as mastitis, engorgement, nipple trauma, and infant weight gain issues
  • Conducting breastfeeding group classes or workshops for expectant mothers
  • Collaborating with healthcare professionals such as obstetricians, pediatricians, and nurses to provide integrated care
  • Staying updated with the latest research and developments in lactation and infant nutrition
  • Maintaining detailed records of patients’ progress and care plans
  • Advocating for breastfeeding as the optimal nutrition for infants and supporting the mother’s choice
  • Adhering to professional standards, hospital protocols, and policies related to lactation services
  • Providing emotional support and encouragement to breastfeeding mothers

 

Clinical Lactation Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a compassionate and knowledgeable Clinical Lactation Specialist to join our healthcare team.

As a Clinical Lactation Specialist, you will be responsible for providing support and education to new mothers, assisting with breastfeeding problems, and promoting breastfeeding as the best infant feeding choice.

Our ideal candidate has a deep understanding of lactation, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to providing the best care to mothers and infants.

 

Responsibilities

  • Provide lactation care and counseling to expecting and new mothers
  • Assess and troubleshoot common breastfeeding problems
  • Collaborate with healthcare professionals to develop individualized feeding plans
  • Conduct group classes and individual sessions on breastfeeding and lactation
  • Advocate for breastfeeding and help create a supportive environment
  • Document and maintain accurate patient records
  • Stay updated on current research and developments in lactation and breastfeeding
  • Participate in professional development and training activities

 

Qualifications

  • Current certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
  • Experience working with new mothers and infants
  • Knowledge of breastfeeding techniques and potential issues
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
  • Compassionate and patient
  • Ability to maintain patient confidentiality
  • Current CPR certification

 

Benefits

  • 401(k)
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Retirement plan
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

  • Job Title: Clinical Lactation Specialist
  • Work Environment: Hospital, clinic, or private practice. Flexibility may be required for home visits or after-hours support.
  • Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Maternal and Child Health Services.
  • Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
  • Pay Range: $56,000 minimum to $80,000 maximum
  • Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
  • Employment Type: Full-time
  • Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
  • Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Clinical Lactation Specialist Do?

Clinical Lactation Specialists, also known as lactation consultants, work in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, birthing centers, and pediatric offices.

They can also offer services privately, visiting new mothers at their homes.

These specialists provide expert advice and support to mothers who are having difficulties with breastfeeding.

Their primary role is to educate and assist mothers in achieving successful and satisfying breastfeeding relationships with their babies.

They work closely with healthcare providers to identify problems and suggest solutions related to lactation.

This could include issues like difficulty in latching, painful nursing, low milk production, or any physical conditions that might affect breastfeeding.

Clinical Lactation Specialists also offer emotional support and encouragement to mothers, reassuring them about their abilities and alleviating any anxieties related to breastfeeding.

They play a crucial role in promoting the health benefits of breastfeeding and are often involved in conducting breastfeeding education classes for expecting parents.

In addition, they are responsible for keeping up-to-date with the latest research and developments in lactation to provide the best possible advice to mothers.

They may also play a role in policy development and advocacy for breastfeeding-friendly environments.

 

Clinical Lactation Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Clinical Lactation Specialist must have a specific set of skills and qualifications to provide expert care and advice, including:

  • Deep knowledge of human lactation, breastfeeding equipment, and techniques to provide comprehensive support to breastfeeding mothers and their infants.
  • Empathy and listening skills to understand the concerns and challenges of breastfeeding mothers, providing reassurance and building trustful relationships.
  • Problem-solving abilities to identify and address breastfeeding problems such as poor latch, low milk supply, or infant weight gain issues.
  • Communication skills to clearly and effectively provide education and counseling on breastfeeding to mothers, families, and healthcare providers.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a healthcare team to coordinate patient care and advocate for breastfeeding support within the healthcare system.
  • Strong clinical skills to assess the health and wellbeing of both mother and infant, and to make appropriate referrals when necessary.
  • Continual learning and professional development to stay updated on the latest research and guidelines in lactation support.
  • Hold a certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or similar qualification, ensuring a high standard of knowledge and practice in lactation support.

 

Clinical Lactation Specialist Experience Requirements

Clinical Lactation Specialists often have a background in healthcare, ideally as a Registered Nurse (RN), Midwife, or Dietitian.

This provides a solid foundation for understanding the medical and nutritional needs of both mothers and infants.

Entry-level Clinical Lactation Specialists typically need a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience in a clinical setting, often gained through an internship or part-time role in maternal-child health.

During this time, aspiring lactation specialists gain hands-on experience with breastfeeding and infant nutrition.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of professional experience may have already achieved certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

This certification is a key requirement for advanced roles in lactation consultancy as it demonstrates a high level of knowledge and practical skills in the field.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in lactation consultancy may have leadership experience and are often ready for roles such as Lactation Program Coordinator or Lactation Department Manager.

In addition to lactation consultancy skills, these roles may require experience in staff supervision, program development, and quality improvement.

 

Clinical Lactation Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Clinical Lactation Specialists typically require a bachelor’s degree in nursing, dietetics, child development, public health, or a related field.

In addition to this, they need to complete a lactation consultant training program that is recognized by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE).

To become a certified lactation consultant, they must pass the IBLCE certification exam.

The IBLCE certification requires renewal every five years, which can be achieved through continuing education, re-examination, or a combination of both.

Furthermore, Clinical Lactation Specialists usually need a medical background, as they often work closely with obstetricians, midwives, pediatricians, and nurses.

Therefore, clinical experience or a registered nurse license can be beneficial.

Some positions may require Clinical Lactation Specialists to have a master’s degree in Public Health or a related field.

Continuing education in the form of advanced courses and workshops on lactation and infant nutrition is also beneficial in this profession to stay updated with the latest research and recommendations.

Those who possess advanced degrees or certifications demonstrate a commitment to their profession and a willingness to stay updated on the latest industry standards and advancements.

 

Clinical Lactation Specialist Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Clinical Lactation Specialist is approximately $77,000 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can vary significantly depending on years of experience, level of certification, geographic location, and the type of healthcare facility where they are employed.

 

Clinical Lactation Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Clinical Lactation Specialist need?

A Clinical Lactation Specialist should have exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, as they need to educate and support mothers through the breastfeeding process.

They should also possess a thorough understanding of maternal and child health, infant feeding practices and human lactation.

An ability to problem-solve and offer practical breastfeeding solutions is also essential.

 

What qualifications are needed to become a Clinical Lactation Specialist?

A Clinical Lactation Specialist must have a healthcare background, with many being registered nurses or dietitians.

They must also complete a lactation-specific education program and achieve certification from a recognized body such as the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE).

The IBLCE certification requires continuing education and renewal every five years.

 

What should you look for in a Clinical Lactation Specialist resume?

A Clinical Lactation Specialist’s resume should highlight healthcare experience, particularly in pediatrics, obstetrics, or neonatology.

Look for IBLCE certification and any additional training in lactation education.

It’s also a bonus to see experience in counselling or teaching, as these roles require communication skills and patience, crucial for a Clinical Lactation Specialist.

 

What qualities make a good Clinical Lactation Specialist?

A good Clinical Lactation Specialist is empathetic, patient, and supportive as they help new mothers navigate the challenges of breastfeeding.

They should be non-judgmental and sensitive to individual needs and situations.

A good Clinical Lactation Specialist should also be proactive in staying updated with the latest research and developments in lactation and infant health.

 

What are the daily duties of a Clinical Lactation Specialist?

The daily duties of a Clinical Lactation Specialist include assessing and observing breastfeeding sessions, providing guidance and education to mothers, devising care plans to address breastfeeding challenges, and documenting patient progress.

They may also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure integrated patient care and participate in patient rounds in hospitals.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of what it means to be a Clinical Lactation Specialist.

Guess what?

It’s not just about assisting breastfeeding mothers.

It’s about fostering the bond between mothers and newborns, one feeding at a time.

With our comprehensive Clinical Lactation Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to step forward.

But why pause here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting precise job listings or honing your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every feeding session contributes to a healthier future.

Let’s nurture that future. Together.

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