Lactation Consultant Program Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of healthcare, the focus on Lactation Consultant Program Instructors is increasingly crucial.

As medical knowledge grows and evolves, so does the need for skilled individuals who can effectively teach, mentor, and develop our future lactation consultants.

So let’s delve deeper: What’s genuinely expected from a Lactation Consultant Program Instructor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of lactation consultant instruction,

You’ve come to the right place.

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

Let’s dive right in.

Lactation Consultant Program Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Lactation Consultant Program Instructors utilize their specialized knowledge and expertise in breastfeeding and lactation support to educate and train future lactation consultants.

Their focus is to ensure that students are well-equipped to provide professional care and advice to breastfeeding mothers.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and implementing comprehensive lactation educational programs
• Teaching courses on breastfeeding techniques, benefits, and challenges
• Evaluating and grading student performance in class and during practical assessments
• Providing constructive feedback to students to help them improve their skills
• Staying updated on current research and best practices in the field of lactation consultation
• Creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students
• Maintaining records of student attendance, performance, and progress
• Assisting in the planning and organization of clinical placements for students
• Participating in professional development activities to improve teaching skills and maintain certification
• Collaborating with other faculty members to ensure the program content is relevant and up-to-date

 

Lactation Consultant Program Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable and empathetic Lactation Consultant Program Instructor to teach new and expectant mothers about the benefits and techniques of breastfeeding.

The instructor will be responsible for providing information, support, and guidance on lactation, breastfeeding issues, and child nutrition.

Our ideal candidate is a Certified Lactation Consultant with a passion for educating others, and has excellent interpersonal skills.

The Lactation Consultant Program Instructor will educate mothers individually and in group settings, create informative materials, and maintain accurate records of each consultation.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct lactation classes for expectant and new mothers.
• Provide individual lactation consultations to address specific concerns or issues.
• Create and distribute educational materials on breastfeeding and child nutrition.
• Keep up-to-date with the latest research and guidelines on lactation and breastfeeding.
• Provide emotional support and encouragement to mothers struggling with breastfeeding.
• Maintain accurate records of each consultation.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care for mothers and babies.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Lactation Consultant or similar role in healthcare or education.
• Certified as a Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is required.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive situations with empathy and discretion.
• Strong understanding of breastfeeding techniques and challenges.
• Knowledge of child development and nutrition.
• High school diploma; degree in nursing, healthcare or related field is a plus.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Lactation Consultant Program Instructor
• Work Environment: Hospital or healthcare setting. May involve travel to clients’ homes.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Nursing or Program Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $75,000 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 Lactation Consultant Program Instructor Do?

Lactation Consultant Program Instructors are experts in the field of breastfeeding and lactation.

They work in a variety of healthcare and educational settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and universities.

Their primary role is to educate aspiring lactation consultants, healthcare professionals, and new parents about the science and practice of breastfeeding.

They provide comprehensive theoretical instruction on topics including the anatomy and physiology of lactation, breastfeeding techniques, lactation management, and the nutritional needs of infants and nursing mothers.

In addition to classroom instruction, these instructors also supervise clinical practice where students get hands-on experience in helping nursing mothers.

They demonstrate correct breastfeeding techniques, troubleshoot common breastfeeding problems, and provide guidance on how to support and educate new mothers.

They also plan and develop the curriculum for lactation consultant programs, create educational materials, and conduct assessments to measure students’ understanding and progress.

Lactation Consultant Program Instructors may also conduct research in the field of lactation, contribute to scholarly articles and papers, and keep up-to-date with the latest developments in their field to ensure that their teaching content is current and evidence-based.

 

Lactation Consultant Program Instructor Qualifications and Skills

A competent Lactation Consultant Program Instructor should possess the skills and qualifications as follows:

• Comprehensive knowledge about breastfeeding and lactation management to provide accurate and updated information to students.
• Excellent instructional skills to effectively deliver course materials, and create engaging and interactive learning experiences.
• Strong understanding of adult learning principles to tailor instruction methods to meet individual learning needs.
• Exceptional communication skills to clearly convey complex information, address student inquiries, and provide constructive feedback.
• Interpersonal skills to build positive relationships with students, colleagues, and other health professionals.
• Ability to evaluate student performance and provide guidance for improvement in both theoretical and practical aspects.
• Experience in clinical practice as a lactation consultant to provide real-world examples and insights.
• Adherence to professional and ethical standards in teaching and lactation consultation practice.
• Problem-solving skills to address issues that may arise during the program and offer effective solutions.
• Continuing education or professional development in lactation or related fields to stay current with the latest research and advancements.

 

Lactation Consultant Program Instructor Experience Requirements

A Lactation Consultant Program Instructor typically requires several years of hands-on experience working as a Lactation Consultant.

They are expected to have comprehensive knowledge and proficiency in breastfeeding support and education, often gained through 3 to 5 years of clinical practice in a hospital or community setting.

They must hold an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) certification, which includes completing specific health science courses, 90 hours of lactation-specific education, and 1000 hours of lactation consulting experience.

Most instructors have experience working in roles such as Registered Nurse, Midwife, or Dietitian, where they have provided breastfeeding and lactation consulting to new mothers.

They may also have experience designing and delivering lactation education programs, which is beneficial for their instructor role.

For those aiming for senior instructor or program lead roles, additional years of experience in a teaching or leadership role in lactation consulting is required.

These professionals often have more than 5 years of experience, demonstrating a track record of successful teaching and mentoring of aspiring lactation consultants.

 

Lactation Consultant Program Instructor Education and Training Requirements

To become a Lactation Consultant Program Instructor, one typically requires a bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related field.

Furthermore, an instructor should be an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

This certification proves that the individual has the necessary skills and expertise to teach and guide new lactation consultants.

In order to become an IBCLC, one needs to pass the certification examination administered by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE).

Prior to taking the exam, candidates must meet specific educational and clinical practice requirements.

Often, Lactation Consultant Program Instructors also have a master’s degree in lactation consulting, nursing, nutrition, or a closely related field.

This advanced degree can provide the instructor with a deeper understanding of the subject matter and equip them with the skills to teach effectively.

Many instructors also pursue continuous education in their field to stay updated with the latest research and techniques.

This could involve attending workshops, seminars, or online courses.

Experience in the clinical field of lactation consulting is highly desirable for these instructors, as they can share their real-world experiences with their students.

It is also beneficial if the candidate has some teaching experience.

This can be acquired through teaching assistant positions during their education or through providing training in a clinical setting.

Lastly, excellent communication skills and a passion for educating others are essential qualities for a Lactation Consultant Program Instructor.

 

Lactation Consultant Program Instructor Salary Expectations

A Lactation Consultant Program Instructor earns an average salary of $72,500 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary depending on factors such as years of experience, qualifications, location, and the institution they are employed by.

 

Lactation Consultant Program Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Lactation Consultant Program Instructor need?

A Lactation Consultant Program Instructor should have excellent communication and teaching skills to effectively convey complex ideas to students.

They should have a deep understanding of breastfeeding techniques, lactation physiology, and infant nutrition.

Organizational and planning skills are also important to prepare engaging lessons and workshops.

In addition, they should have the ability to empathize with and support new mothers who may be experiencing emotional or physical challenges.

 

Do Lactation Consultant Program Instructors need a degree?

Yes, Lactation Consultant Program Instructors are typically required to have at least a bachelor’s degree in a health-related field, such as nursing or dietetics.

They must also be certified as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

Some programs prefer instructors with a master’s degree or higher in education or a related field.

 

What should you look for in a Lactation Consultant Program Instructor resume?

Firstly, ensure that the candidate is an IBCLC certified professional.

Look for experience in teaching, especially in a relevant field.

Experience in working with new mothers or in a healthcare setting is a plus.

Other desirable credentials may include a degree in a health-related field, a nursing license, or additional training in adult education.

 

What qualities make a good Lactation Consultant Program Instructor?

A good Lactation Consultant Program Instructor is patient and understanding, as they will be dealing with students who are learning complex and sensitive topics.

They need to be passionate about breastfeeding education and support, and committed to staying updated on the latest research and practices in lactation consultation.

Strong communication skills are a must, as they need to explain concepts clearly and effectively.

They should also be empathetic and supportive, as they may need to assist students dealing with the emotional aspects of their future roles.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Lactation Consultant Program Instructor?

The difficulty in hiring a Lactation Consultant Program Instructor largely depends on the location and the specific requirements of the role.

There may be fewer professionals in this specialized field compared to others, so finding a candidate with the right combination of experience, qualifications, and teaching ability can be challenging.

Offering competitive salary and benefits, as well as opportunities for professional development, can make a position more attractive to potential candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a Lactation Consultant Program Instructor.

Surprise!

It’s not only about teaching breastfeeding techniques.

It’s about fostering healthy parent-infant relationships, one lactation consultation at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive Lactation Consultant Program Instructor job description template and real-life instances, you’re prepared to take the leap.

But why halt your progress here?

Probe further with our job description generator. It’s your next course of action to creating meticulously detailed listings or polishing your resume to sheer brilliance.

Remember:

Every lesson imparted is a step towards nurturing healthier generations.

Let’s nurture that future. Together.

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