Lactation Resource Center Advisor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of healthcare and nutrition, the importance of Lactation Resource Center Advisors continues to grow.

As the field evolves, so does the need for knowledgeable professionals who can guide, educate, and support new mothers in their breastfeeding journey.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Lactation Resource Center Advisor?

Whether you are:

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

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s get started.

Lactation Resource Center Advisor Duties and Responsibilities

Lactation Resource Center Advisors provide support and guidance to mothers in their breastfeeding journey.

They employ a sound understanding of infant feeding practices, maternal health and lactation to advise and educate mothers, families, and healthcare providers.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assessing mothers’ and infants’ needs and developing personalized breastfeeding plans
• Providing education and guidance to mothers about breastfeeding techniques, benefits, and potential challenges
• Advising on the use of breastfeeding equipment like breast pumps and nipple shields
• Evaluating and monitoring infants’ growth and nutrition, and mothers’ milk supply
• Collaborating with healthcare providers to ensure a cohesive approach to breastfeeding support
• Conducting workshops and support groups to share information and experiences
• Staying updated on the latest research and developments in lactation and infant feeding
• Assisting with the emotional aspects of breastfeeding and providing supportive counseling
• Maintaining privacy and confidentiality of client information

 

Lactation Resource Center Advisor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Lactation Resource Center Advisor to provide support, guidance, and education to breastfeeding mothers.

The Advisor will be responsible for assessing the needs of mothers and infants, developing appropriate care plans and providing hands-on clinical lactation services.

The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of lactation and infant nutrition, is patient, caring, and comfortable working with new mothers and babies.

Experience as a Lactation Consultant or in a similar role is required.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and assess the needs of breastfeeding mothers and their infants
• Provide clinical lactation services, including hands-on help with breastfeeding and expression
• Develop and implement appropriate care plans
• Collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure consistent care
• Conduct group classes and one-on-one sessions on breastfeeding techniques and benefits
• Provide emotional support and encouragement to breastfeeding mothers
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records
• Stay abreast of the latest research and developments in lactation and infant nutrition

 

Qualifications

• Certified as a Lactation Consultant by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) is required
• Proven experience in a similar role
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong problem-solving abilities
• Knowledge of maternal-child health and nutrition
• Compassionate and caring with the ability to offer emotional support
• Ability to work flexible hours, as needed

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Lactation Resource Center Advisor
• Work Environment: Clinic or healthcare facility with options for home visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Maternal and Infant Health.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $65,000 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 Resource Center Advisor Do?

Lactation Resource Center Advisors provide comprehensive support, education, and consultation about breastfeeding and human lactation to expecting and new parents.

They work in hospitals, clinics, health departments, and community health organizations.

Some may also offer in-home consultations or virtual consultations.

Their role involves assessing the mother and baby’s breastfeeding practices and providing feedback and advice to help improve breastfeeding techniques.

This can include demonstrating effective latching techniques, advising on how to increase milk supply, and offering solutions for common breastfeeding issues such as sore nipples or baby’s difficulty in feeding.

Lactation Resource Center Advisors may conduct workshops or classes to educate expecting parents about the benefits of breastfeeding, how to prepare for breastfeeding, and how to overcome potential challenges.

They often work closely with other healthcare professionals, including pediatricians, obstetricians, and dietitians to ensure a holistic care approach for both mother and baby.

In addition to providing breastfeeding support, they also provide emotional support to mothers who may be experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety.

Lactation Resource Center Advisors are also responsible for staying up-to-date on the latest research and guidelines in lactation to provide the most accurate and relevant advice.

 

Lactation Resource Center Advisor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Lactation Resource Center Advisor should possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or similar is required to provide professional advice and support.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of maternal and infant health to provide information and resources on breastfeeding techniques and health benefits.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport with new and expectant mothers, as well as their families.
• Exceptional communication skills to effectively convey information about breastfeeding, lactation, and infant nutrition to a diverse range of clients.
• Problem-solving skills to address any difficulties or complications that may arise during the lactation process.
• Empathy and sensitivity to respect and understand the personal circumstances and feelings of new mothers and their families.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple clients and maintain accurate and confidential client records.
• Customer service skills to ensure the satisfaction of clients and their families, providing them with a comfortable and supportive environment.
• Up-to-date knowledge of the latest research and best practices in lactation and maternal-infant health to provide accurate and timely advice.

 

Lactation Resource Center Advisor Experience Requirements

Individuals interested in becoming a Lactation Resource Center Advisor typically need a bachelor’s degree in nursing, nutrition, or a related field.

Additionally, they often pursue advanced certification as a lactation consultant, which requires an extensive amount of clinical experience in the field of lactation support.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship or part-time role in a hospital, healthcare setting or lactation support center.

These professionals can also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Registered Nurse, Pediatric Nurse, Dietitian, or other healthcare-related roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their counseling skills and knowledge in entry-level lactation support roles.

During this time, they typically gain experience providing breastfeeding education, developing lactation care plans, and helping mothers overcome breastfeeding challenges.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some leadership experience in their background and may be ready for a managerial or team-lead position.

This could include managing a team of lactation consultants, overseeing a lactation resource center, or leading breastfeeding support groups.

In addition, many lactation resource center advisors continue to pursue ongoing education and training in the field of lactation support to stay up-to-date with the latest research and best practices.

This may include attending professional conferences, participating in continuing education courses, or earning advanced certifications in the field.

 

Lactation Resource Center Advisor Education and Training Requirements

Lactation Resource Center Advisors typically have a bachelor’s degree in nursing, nutrition, healthcare or a related field.

They also need to be certified as International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs), which requires completion of a clinical internship in lactation support and passing a certification exam.

The clinical experience gives them practical knowledge and skills in breastfeeding and lactation support.

This experience must be supervised by a qualified healthcare professional or mentor.

Additionally, they need to complete a comprehensive lactation education course.

This course provides in-depth theoretical knowledge about lactation, infant nutrition, and breastfeeding support and counseling.

Some positions may require Lactation Resource Center Advisors to have a master’s degree in public health or a related field, demonstrating their ability to understand and address broader health issues around breastfeeding and infant nutrition.

Regular recertification as an IBCLC may be needed every five years to keep up with the latest research and best practices in lactation support.

Although not always required, many Lactation Resource Center Advisors pursue continuous education courses to improve their knowledge and skills in lactation support and counseling.

This may involve attending workshops, conferences, or trainings on specific topics related to lactation and infant nutrition.

Having a master’s degree and/or additional certifications can indicate a candidate’s dedication to their profession and their commitment to providing high-quality lactation support to mothers and babies.

 

Lactation Resource Center Advisor Salary Expectations

A Lactation Resource Center Advisor earns an average salary of $79,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can vary depending on factors such as the level of experience, education, the location of the center, and the specific policies of the employing organization.

 

Lactation Resource Center Advisor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Lactation Resource Center Advisor need?

Lactation Resource Center Advisors need to possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills as they will be dealing with parents and providing them with guidance.

They must have a deep understanding of breastfeeding and lactation as well as strong problem-solving skills to help address lactation challenges that new mothers might face.

They should also have a compassionate and patient attitude to handle sensitive situations.

 

Do Lactation Resource Center Advisors need a degree?

While a specific degree is not required, Lactation Resource Center Advisors should ideally have a background in a health-related field.

Most importantly, they should hold a certification from a recognized lactation education program.

This certification ensures that the advisor is equipped with knowledge about lactation support and breastfeeding practices.

 

What should you look for in a Lactation Resource Center Advisor resume?

On a Lactation Resource Center Advisor’s resume, it is essential to look for a certification in lactation consulting or a similar field.

Previous experience in maternal-child health or women’s health is also beneficial.

Additional qualities to look for include excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to work in a diverse environment, and proven knowledge in lactation and breastfeeding support.

 

What qualities make a good Lactation Resource Center Advisor?

A good Lactation Resource Center Advisor should be empathetic and understanding, as they will be working with mothers who may be experiencing difficulties or stress.

They should have excellent communication skills to convey complex information clearly and concisely.

Additionally, they should be patient, as every mother and baby pair is unique and may require different approaches and time frames to achieve successful breastfeeding.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Lactation Resource Center Advisor?

Hiring a Lactation Resource Center Advisor can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

The candidate needs to have specific certifications and experience in lactation support, which may limit the pool of qualified candidates.

However, offering competitive salary and benefits packages and promoting a supportive work environment can help attract qualified professionals to the role.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we unveiled the real essence of being a Lactation Resource Center Advisor.

You know what?

It’s not just about providing breastfeeding advice.

It’s about fostering a nurturing environment, one mother and baby at a time.

With our definitive Lactation Resource Center Advisor job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-equipped to make your mark.

But why limit yourself?

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

Remember:

Every piece of advice you give contributes to the larger picture.

Let’s nurture that future. Together.

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