Lactation Consultant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of maternal and child healthcare, the importance of lactation consultants cannot be overstated.

As the healthcare field advances, the demand for skilled professionals who can guide, support, and promote breastfeeding practices grows stronger.

But what does a lactation consultant’s role truly entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker curious about the core responsibilities of this position,
• A hiring manager constructing the profile of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in understanding the integral role of lactation consulting,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable lactation consultant job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive into it.

Lactation Consultant Duties and Responsibilities

Lactation Consultants are professionals in the maternal-child health sector who focus on the clinical management of breastfeeding.

They possess specialized knowledge and skills to support, educate, and advocate for breastfeeding mothers and their infants.

The following are the duties and responsibilities of a Lactation Consultant:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of the mother and baby during breastfeeding to identify any challenges or problems
• Develop individualized breastfeeding care plans and monitor their implementation
• Provide emotional support and guidance to mothers experiencing difficulties with breastfeeding
• Educate and advise mothers about the benefits of breastfeeding, proper breastfeeding techniques, and potential problems
• Work closely with other healthcare providers to ensure that the mother and baby are receiving comprehensive care
• Provide advice on the use of breastfeeding equipment like breast pumps
• Advocate for breastfeeding-friendly environments in hospitals, workplaces, and the community
• Conduct training sessions for healthcare staff on the importance and management of breastfeeding
• Stay updated on the latest research and developments in lactation and breastfeeding
• Maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to professional and ethical guidelines

 

Lactation Consultant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a caring and knowledgeable Lactation Consultant to join our team.

The ideal candidate will provide education, support and consultation to mothers who have questions and challenges related to breastfeeding.

This role involves ensuring mothers understand the benefits of breastfeeding, techniques for successful breastfeeding, and how to overcome challenges.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide breastfeeding assistance and information to new mothers
• Assess the breastfeeding technique and provide advice for improvements
• Develop individualized breastfeeding plans for mothers and infants with special needs
• Conduct in-home or clinic consultations and follow-ups
• Provide emotional support and encouragement to breastfeeding mothers
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals such as pediatricians and obstetricians
• Educate family members and caregivers on the support of breastfeeding mothers
• Stay updated on latest research and best practices in lactation

 

Qualifications

• IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) certification is required
• Proven experience as a lactation consultant
• Excellent communication and teaching skills
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and a friendly demeanor
• Knowledge of maternal-infant health and breastfeeding techniques
• Ability to handle sensitive situations with tact and discretion
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including weekends, nights, and holidays

 

Benefits

• Healthcare coverage
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Work-life balance and flexible schedule

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Lactation Consultant
• Work Environment: Hospital, clinic or private practice settings. May require home visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Maternal Child Services.
• Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Part-time/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 Lactation Consultant Do?

Lactation Consultants are healthcare professionals who specialize in the clinical management of breastfeeding.

They work in various settings, such as hospitals, pediatric clinics, public health clinics, and private practice.

Their primary role is to educate and support mothers and families on breastfeeding and human lactation.

They provide comprehensive information and expert guidance on topics ranging from proper latching techniques to breastfeeding nutrition.

Lactation Consultants assess the breastfeeding dyad, taking into account the health status of both the mother and the baby.

They can identify potential breastfeeding problems and devise strategies to prevent or resolve them.

In some cases, they may be required to work with other healthcare professionals to manage medical conditions associated with breastfeeding, such as mastitis, low milk supply, or latching difficulties.

They also advocate for breastfeeding as the best source of infant nutrition, working towards the protection, promotion, and support of breastfeeding within their community and healthcare settings.

Moreover, they are typically involved in the development and implementation of breastfeeding policies and practices in healthcare institutions.

Their overall goal is to help mothers establish a successful breastfeeding relationship with their infants, enhancing maternal and infant health.

 

Lactation Consultant Qualifications and Skills

Lactation Consultants provide breastfeeding guidance and support to new mothers and are required to possess a range of skills and qualifications, including:

• Advanced knowledge of human lactation and breastfeeding to provide comprehensive breastfeeding counseling and management strategies to mothers.
• Interpersonal skills to establish rapport with new mothers, understanding their unique needs and anxieties, and providing empathetic support.
• Communication skills to clearly explain the benefits of breastfeeding, proper nursing techniques, and potential challenges to new mothers and their families.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address any breastfeeding difficulties, including latching problems, milk production issues, and painful nursing.
• Patience and empathy to support mothers who may be struggling with breastfeeding or coping with postpartum mood disorders.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with healthcare professionals, such as obstetricians, pediatricians, and dietitians, to ensure comprehensive care for mothers and their babies.
• Knowledge of infant growth and development to monitor and assess the infant’s health and nutrition status accurately.
• Teaching skills to provide breastfeeding classes or workshops to expectant mothers.

 

Lactation Consultant Experience Requirements

Lactation Consultants typically start their career journey with a background in healthcare, often as a registered nurse or midwife.

This initial experience in healthcare provides essential foundational knowledge about the body and health, critical for understanding breastfeeding dynamics.

Candidates usually need to complete coursework in human lactation and breastfeeding, either through a degree program or standalone courses.

This could be an opportunity to gain practical experience through guided clinical practice with breastfeeding mothers under the supervision of experienced lactation consultants.

For entry-level roles, employers may require a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships, volunteer positions, or as part of a healthcare role supporting breastfeeding mothers.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have likely developed advanced lactation consulting skills, including complex case management, and are equipped to provide comprehensive breastfeeding education and support.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience and are often ready for positions such as Lactation Consultant Team Leader or Manager.

This level of experience may also be required for roles in teaching, mentoring, or conducting research in the field of lactation.

All Lactation Consultants need to be certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) and maintain their certification through continued education and practice in the field.

 

Lactation Consultant Education and Training Requirements

Lactation Consultants typically require a minimum of a high school diploma or its equivalent for entry into the profession.

However, many lactation consultants have higher degrees in nursing or dietetics.

The primary requirement for becoming a Lactation Consultant is to become an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

This certification is granted by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) and includes education in human lactation, patient care, and professional ethics.

To qualify for the IBCLC examination, candidates must complete a combination of health sciences education, lactation specific education, and supervised clinical experience in providing lactation and breastfeeding care.

Furthermore, they are required to complete continuing education and recertification every five years to ensure they stay updated with the latest knowledge and best practices in the field of lactation consultation.

While not always required, having a background in a healthcare-related field, such as nursing or dietetics, can be beneficial as it provides a broader understanding of human health and nutrition.

Many lactation consultants also complete additional specialized training in fields such as pediatrics, obstetrics, or maternal-child health to enhance their skills and expertise.

 

Lactation Consultant Salary Expectations

A Lactation Consultant earns an average salary of $79,007 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income can differ based on factors such as years of experience, level of education, certifications, and the geographical location of the practice.

 

Lactation Consultant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Lactation Consultant need?

A Lactation Consultant should possess strong interpersonal and communication skills to connect with new mothers and their families.

They need to have empathy, patience, and understanding.

They also need to have a wide knowledge of breastfeeding techniques, infant nutrition, maternal health, and early childhood development.

Problem-solving skills are also important, as every case may be different.

 

What kind of education is required for a Lactation Consultant?

Typically, a Lactation Consultant must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

They must also complete a lactation consultant training program and obtain an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) certification.

Some Lactation Consultants may have a background in nursing or other healthcare related fields.

 

What should you look for in a Lactation Consultant resume?

A resume for a Lactation Consultant should list their education, any special training, and their certification status.

It should also highlight their experience working with new mothers and infants, as well as any specialized knowledge or skills they have.

You should also look for evidence of empathy, patience, and good communication skills.

 

What qualities make a good Lactation Consultant?

A good Lactation Consultant is empathetic, patient, and has excellent communication skills.

They should be knowledgeable about breastfeeding techniques, infant nutrition, maternal health, and early childhood development.

Good problem-solving skills are also crucial as each case is unique and may require different solutions.

Additionally, they should be committed to continuing education to stay updated with the latest research and trends.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Lactation Consultant?

The difficulty in hiring a Lactation Consultant can vary depending on the location and the demand for these professionals.

In areas with a high birth rate, there may be a higher demand for Lactation Consultants, making them harder to hire.

However, offering competitive benefits, providing ongoing professional development, and creating a supportive work environment can attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve illuminated the crucial role of a lactation consultant.

And guess what?

It’s not just about advising on breastfeeding.

It’s about nurturing the bond between mother and child, one feeding session at a time.

With our handy lactation consultant job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take your next step.

But why stop there?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your guide to creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every feeding session contributes to a stronger, healthier future.

Let’s nourish that future. Together.

How to Become a Lactation Consultant (Complete Guide)

AI Can’t Handle These: Jobs That Need a Human’s Touch

Upgrade Your Career from Home: Remote Jobs with Salaries That Will Shock You!

Hiring Frenzy: The Careers That Are Most In-Demand

The Offbeat Office: Exploring the World’s Most Unusual Jobs