Human Milk Banking Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of healthcare and nutrition, the focus on Human Milk Banking Specialists is becoming increasingly significant.

As more light is shed on the importance of breastfeeding and its alternatives, the demand for professionals who can process, analyze, and distribute donor human milk is on the rise.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Human Milk Banking Specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager sculpting the profile of the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of human milk banking,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Human Milk Banking Specialist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Human Milk Banking Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Human Milk Banking Specialists play a crucial role in ensuring the safe collection, screening, processing, and distribution of donor human milk for babies in need.

They must adhere to strict health and safety regulations and guidelines.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Overseeing the collection, storage, and transportation of donated human milk
• Screening potential donors according to health and lifestyle criteria
• Processing donated milk, including pasteurization, to ensure its safety and nutritional quality
• Performing tests on processed milk to guarantee it is free from harmful bacteria and other contaminants
• Maintaining accurate records of milk collection, processing, and distribution
• Coordinating with healthcare providers to match and distribute donated milk to babies in need
• Providing education and support to donors about the donation process
• Ensuring strict compliance with health and safety regulations, as well as milk banking guidelines and procedures
• Promoting the benefits of human milk donation through community outreach and education programs

 

Human Milk Banking Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Human Milk Banking Specialist to join our team.

The successful candidate will be primarily responsible for handling, pasteurizing, and testing donated human milk, ensuring the highest standards of safety and hygiene are maintained.

Human Milk Banking Specialist responsibilities include receiving and screening human milk donations, operating milk pasteurizing equipment, and maintaining accurate records.

Our ideal candidate has a strong attention to detail, exceptional organizational skills, and a background in healthcare or laboratory environments.

Ultimately, the role of a Human Milk Banking Specialist is to ensure that all processed milk is safe and ready for distribution to neonatal units and outpatient families.

 

Responsibilities

• Receive and screen human milk donations
• Operate pasteurizing and testing equipment
• Maintain accurate records of milk inventory
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations
• Assist in the preparation of milk for distribution
• Maintain a clean and hygienic work environment
• Conduct regular checks on equipment and report any malfunctions
• Participate in donor recruitment and education initiatives

 

Qualifications

• Experience in a healthcare or laboratory environment
• Knowledge of safe handling and storage of biohazardous materials
• Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills
• Ability to operate relevant equipment
• Strong attention to detail
• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Degree in a relevant field (e.g. health sciences, laboratory technology, etc.)

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Human Milk Banking Specialist
• Work Environment: Laboratory setting. Some weekend work may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Human Milk Bank Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $70,000 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 Human Milk Banking Specialist Do?

Human Milk Banking Specialists are healthcare professionals who work primarily in milk banks, hospitals, and healthcare facilities, where they handle the process of collecting, testing, storing, and distributing donated human milk.

They work closely with donor mothers, educating them about the donation process and ensuring they meet the health requirements for milk donation.

They are responsible for safely collecting the donated milk, maintaining its quality and integrity throughout the process.

Human Milk Banking Specialists test the donated milk to ensure its safety and nutritional content, following strict protocols and quality control measures.

They pasteurize the milk to eliminate any potential bacteria or viruses, then freeze and store it under controlled conditions.

They also handle the distribution of the donated milk, ensuring it reaches premature or sick infants in need, based on hospital or healthcare provider orders.

Often, they work alongside lactation consultants and healthcare providers to promote the benefits of breast milk and encourage milk donations.

They are responsible for maintaining hygiene and safety standards, and for keeping accurate records of milk donations and distributions.

They also adhere to ethical guidelines and respect the privacy of donor mothers.

 

Human Milk Banking Specialist Qualifications and Skills

Human Milk Banking Specialists need a variety of technical, soft skills and industry-specific knowledge to ensure the safety and efficiency of human milk banking processes, including:

• Knowledge of human lactation and breastfeeding to understand the benefits and challenges of breast milk donation and usage.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills to maintain strict safety and hygiene standards, ensuring that all donated milk is properly screened, stored, and distributed.
• Strong communication skills to liaise effectively with donors, recipients, and medical professionals, answering questions and providing clear information about the milk banking process.
• Interpersonal skills to build relationships with donors, recipients, and their families, providing support and reassurance throughout the donation and distribution process.
• Problem-solving abilities to identify and resolve any issues that may arise during the screening, storage, or distribution process.
• A strong understanding of medical and scientific terminology, as well as the ability to interpret and apply local health and safety regulations.
• Technical skills for operating, cleaning, and maintaining milk banking equipment such as pasteurizers and freezers.
• Customer service skills to ensure a positive experience for all involved in the milk banking process, from initial contact through to final distribution.

 

Human Milk Banking Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for Human Milk Banking Specialist may have at least 1 to 2 years of experience, often through a healthcare internship or part-time role in a laboratory or medical setting.

These professionals may also gain experience in roles such as Laboratory Technician, Medical Assistant, or other healthcare-related roles.

Candidates with more than 2 years of experience often develop their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level Human Milk Banking Specialist roles or in similar positions that require handling and processing biological samples.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have experience managing a team or leading a project, having developed a deep understanding of human milk banking procedures, safety protocols, and regulatory standards.

Such candidates may be ready for a managerial or supervisory role within a human milk bank.

Additional qualifications may include certifications in phlebotomy or clinical laboratory science, and a solid understanding of breastfeeding support and lactation education.

Some roles may also require familiarity with pasteurization processes and the ability to operate related laboratory equipment.

 

Human Milk Banking Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Human Milk Banking Specialists, also known as Lactation Consultants, typically have a bachelor’s degree in nursing, nutrition, or another health-related field.

Training in the field of lactation is essential, with many specialists earning the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) certification.

This certification requires the completion of specific health science courses, lactation-specific education, and hundreds of hours of hands-on experience in providing care to breastfeeding families.

In addition to the above, human milk banking specialists should have significant knowledge and training in milk bank operations, including donor screening, milk collection, storage, pasteurization, and distribution.

Specialists working in this field should also be familiar with the guidelines established by the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) or an equivalent organization depending on the country of operation.

Some positions may require additional training in bloodborne pathogens, infection control, and HIPAA regulations.

Certifications like Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) or Advanced Lactation Consultant (ALC) can also be beneficial for those aiming for advanced roles in the human milk banking sector.

Continuous education is important in this field to keep up with the latest research and practices related to breastfeeding and human milk banking.

 

Human Milk Banking Specialist Salary Expectations

A Human Milk Banking Specialist earns an average salary of $57,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on certifications, years of experience in the field, and the geographical location of the milk bank.

 

Human Milk Banking Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Human Milk Banking Specialist need?

A Human Milk Banking Specialist should have excellent organizational and analytical skills, as they are responsible for managing inventory, screening donations, and maintaining accurate records.

They should also possess good communication and interpersonal skills to interact with donors, healthcare professionals, and families.

Knowledge of safety and hygiene protocols is also crucial.

 

Do Human Milk Banking Specialists need a degree?

While there are no specific degree requirements, most Human Milk Banking Specialists have a background in healthcare, often as nurses or lab technicians.

A degree in a health-related field is usually beneficial.

Certification from the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) may also be required.

 

What should you look for in a Human Milk Banking Specialist resume?

A strong candidate will have previous experience in a healthcare setting, preferably in milk banking or a related field.

They should demonstrate knowledge of milk banking procedures, including donor screening, milk pasteurization, and quality assurance.

Check for certifications or training related to milk banking, safety protocols, or health regulation compliance.

 

What qualities make a good Human Milk Banking Specialist?

A good Human Milk Banking Specialist is meticulous and attentive to detail, ensuring the safety of the milk bank procedures.

They need to be reliable, dealing with a product that greatly impacts the health of infants.

Empathy and good communication skills are also important, as they deal with donors and recipient families.

 

How crucial is the role of a Human Milk Banking Specialist?

Human Milk Banking Specialists play an essential role in providing safe and nutritious breast milk to infants who, for various reasons, cannot be breastfed by their mothers.

They ensure the collection, screening, processing, and distribution of donated human milk is done according to strict safety standards.

This work can be lifesaving for premature or critically ill babies.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the intricacies of being a Human Milk Banking Specialist.

You know what?

It’s not just about pasteurizing and storing breast milk.

It’s about fostering healthier futures, one donated milk at a time.

With our handy Human Milk Banking Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your next move.

But why end your journey here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for crafting precise job listings or polishing your resume to brilliance.

Remember:

Every milk donation is a part of a greater cause.

Let’s nourish that future. Together.

How to Become a Human Milk Banking Specialist (Complete Guide)

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