NICU Lactation Consultant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of neonatal care, the role of NICU Lactation Consultants is vital and increasingly in demand.

As healthcare advances, the need for highly skilled professionals who can support, guide, and ensure the nutritional health of our most vulnerable patients grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a NICU Lactation Consultant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to delineate the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the complex and rewarding world of neonatal lactation consultation,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a comprehensive and customizable NICU Lactation Consultant job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in.

NICU Lactation Consultant Duties and Responsibilities

NICU Lactation Consultants are specialized healthcare professionals who assist mothers in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with breastfeeding their newborns, providing both emotional support and practical guidance.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assessing the mother’s ability to breastfeed and providing personalized lactation plans
• Supporting and educating mothers about breastfeeding, including positioning, latch and milk production
• Providing solutions for breastfeeding difficulties such as nipple pain, engorgement, low milk supply and infant feeding behaviors
• Evaluating infants for tongue ties or other physical issues that may affect breastfeeding
• Collaborating with healthcare providers and NICU staff to coordinate care and ensure optimal support for breastfeeding
• Documenting care and patient progress, and maintaining patient confidentiality
• Providing emotional support and encouragement to mothers in the NICU
• Keeping abreast of latest research and developments in lactation support
• Conducting breastfeeding classes for expectant mothers, families, and medical staff
• Advocating for breastfeeding rights and supportive hospital policies

 

NICU Lactation Consultant Job Description Template

Job Brief

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

The successful candidate will provide expert breastfeeding and lactation care, education, and support to families and healthcare professionals in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

NICU Lactation Consultants are responsible for developing and implementing breastfeeding programs and ensuring compliance with healthcare policies and procedures.

A crucial part of their role is to educate and support new mothers and NICU staff on the benefits and techniques of breastfeeding.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide lactation care and instruction to breastfeeding mothers and infants.
• Develop, implement and evaluate breastfeeding programs.
• Educate and train healthcare professionals on lactation and breastfeeding practices.
• Maintain accurate medical records and document patient care services.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to create personalized lactation care plans.
• Ensure compliance with healthcare policies and procedures.
• Conduct breastfeeding support groups or educational sessions.
• Assist mothers with breastfeeding difficulties, such as latching difficulties, pain, and pumping.

 

Qualifications

• Certified as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).
• Experience working in a NICU or maternity ward.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of breastfeeding equipment and techniques.
• Strong counseling and teaching skills.
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality.
• Nursing degree may be required.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education credits

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: NICU Lactation Consultant
• Work Environment: Hospital setting. This role may involve working nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Neonatal Department or NICU Manager.
• Salary: Salary is dependent upon candidate’s experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $85,000 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 NICU Lactation Consultant Do?

NICU Lactation Consultants are specialized healthcare professionals who work in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of hospitals.

Their primary role is to provide expert breastfeeding and lactation care to mothers of premature or sick newborns admitted in the NICU.

They work closely with the medical team, including neonatologists, pediatricians, nurses, dietitians, and social workers.

They help mothers initiate and maintain lactation and teach them methods to express milk when direct breastfeeding is not possible.

They also ensure that the expressed breast milk is safely stored and handled.

NICU Lactation Consultants advise on the use of breastfeeding equipment like breast pumps, provide information on milk supplementation when necessary, and support mothers in transitioning their babies from tube feeding to breastfeeding.

In addition, they offer emotional support and reassurance to mothers, addressing any concerns or difficulties they may be experiencing, such as low milk supply or painful breastfeeding.

They may also provide education to staff and families about the benefits and management of breastfeeding and human milk use in the NICU.

They play a crucial role in the infant’s recovery and growth, and in strengthening the bond between the mother and her newborn.

 

NICU Lactation Consultant Qualifications and Skills

A proficient NICU Lactation Consultant should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Extensive knowledge of neonatal and infant nutrition, including breastfeeding and pumping techniques.
• Experience in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and understanding of special considerations required for preterm and critically ill infants.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport with new mothers, who may be dealing with stress, fatigue, and emotional challenges.
• Exceptional communication skills, both oral and written, to effectively explain complex lactation information to parents and healthcare providers, and to document patient interactions.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills to assess and address breastfeeding challenges unique to NICU patients and their mothers.
• Patient and compassionate nature to provide emotional support and encouragement to mothers struggling with breastfeeding or pumping.
• Physical stamina to stand or sit for extended periods while coaching mothers or handling infants.
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA regulations.
• Certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is often required.

 

NICU Lactation Consultant Experience Requirements

NICU Lactation Consultants typically have a strong background in healthcare, often starting their careers as registered nurses or dietitians.

They usually have at least 2-3 years of experience in maternal-child health, pediatrics, or obstetrics.

This experience is crucial for understanding the medical complexities that can affect lactation.

Completing an accredited lactation consultant training program is a key step towards this role.

These programs provide in-depth knowledge about human lactation, breastfeeding counseling, and problem-solving.

It’s also crucial to gain hands-on clinical experience in assisting with breastfeeding, which can be obtained by working in a hospital, breastfeeding clinic or maternity ward.

Candidates with 5 or more years of experience, or those holding an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) certification, are often preferred.

This advanced certification requires ongoing education and extensive clinical experience.

Those with more than 10 years of experience may have a wealth of expertise in lactation consulting and might be ready for a leadership or supervisory role within the hospital’s lactation department.

They may also be prepared to train and mentor new lactation consultants.

Additionally, some NICU Lactation Consultants may also have experience in conducting research in lactation and presenting their findings at conferences or in medical journals.

 

NICU Lactation Consultant Education and Training Requirements

A NICU Lactation Consultant typically requires a bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related field.

They need to obtain a Registered Nurse (RN) license which involves passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

Candidates should then complete a lactation consultant program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or equivalent.

After graduating from such a program, they need to pass the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) exam to become a Certified Lactation Consultant.

Work experience in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is highly beneficial as it provides practical experience with high-risk newborns and their mothers.

Specialized knowledge in neonatal care, breast anatomy, infant feeding behavior, and breastfeeding techniques is essential.

Although not a requirement, pursuing a master’s degree in nursing or a related field is beneficial, and some positions may require advanced education.

Continuous education and training are encouraged as it helps to stay updated with the latest practices and research in lactation support.

 

NICU Lactation Consultant Salary Expectations

A NICU Lactation Consultant earns an average salary of $81,000 (USD) per year.

However, actual earnings can differ based on factors such as experience, certifications, location, and the healthcare facility they are employed by.

 

NICU Lactation Consultant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a NICU Lactation Consultant need?

A NICU Lactation Consultant should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to connect with patients and medical staff effectively.

They should also possess extensive knowledge about breastfeeding and lactation issues, especially concerning premature or critically ill infants.

They need good problem-solving skills to offer solutions for various breastfeeding challenges.

Patience and empathy are key as they often support mothers under stress.

 

What qualifications does a NICU Lactation Consultant need?

NICU Lactation Consultants are typically Registered Nurses or Registered Dieticians who have additional certification from a recognized organization like the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE).

This certification is acquired after a mix of healthcare education, lactation specific education, and supervised clinical experience in providing lactation care and services.

 

What should you look for in a NICU Lactation Consultant resume?

In a NICU Lactation Consultant’s resume, look for a registered nursing or dietician license, as well as an IBCLC certification.

Check for experience working in a NICU or with high-risk infants and families.

Experience in counseling or patient education is a plus as this role requires educating mothers about breastfeeding.

Look for any additional training or certifications related to infant care, lactation, or maternal health.

 

What qualities make a good NICU Lactation Consultant?

A good NICU Lactation Consultant is compassionate and empathetic, understanding the emotional distress that mothers in the NICU often experience.

They are patient, knowledgeable, and capable of offering practical solutions to breastfeeding challenges.

They should also have excellent communication skills, allowing them to explain complex medical terminology in simple terms to patients.

 

Is it difficult to hire NICU Lactation Consultants?

The level of difficulty in hiring NICU Lactation Consultants varies by location and demand.

The role requires specialized knowledge and skills, making it potentially challenging to find qualified candidates.

However, offering competitive salaries and benefits, a supportive work environment, and opportunities for continuing education can attract suitable candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of what it truly means to be a NICU Lactation Consultant.

And guess what?

It’s not merely about breastfeeding guidance.

It’s about nurturing the future, one precious newborn at a time.

With our reliable NICU Lactation Consultant job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-equipped to make your next career move.

But why pause there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next step in creating meticulously-crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every bit of advice, every comforting word, is a part of a larger journey.

Let’s shape that journey. Together.

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