Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the field of pediatric healthcare, the role of a lactation specialist has never been more essential.

As we continue to understand the importance of breastfeeding in a child’s early development, the demand for qualified individuals who can guide, support, and advise new mothers on lactation matters continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a pediatric clinic lactation specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the dynamics of a lactation specialist’s work,

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s get started.

Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the clinical management of breastfeeding.

They provide expert breastfeeding and lactation care, promote breastfeeding as the norm, and contribute significantly to the initiation and duration of breastfeeding.

The duties and responsibilities of a Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist include:

• Providing evidence-based information and guidance on breastfeeding and lactation to expectant mothers and families
• Assessing and evaluating breastfeeding techniques, and offering solutions for any challenges faced
• Developing personalized breastfeeding plans, taking into account the mother’s health, availability and lifestyle
• Conducting breastfeeding classes and workshops for expectant parents
• Consulting with healthcare providers and pediatricians to manage the health and nutrition of both the mother and baby
• Assisting mothers in using breastfeeding equipment, such as breast pumps and feeding pillows
• Monitoring the progress of the mother and baby and making necessary adjustments to the breastfeeding plan
• Providing emotional support and counseling to mothers experiencing difficulties with breastfeeding
• Maintaining patient confidentiality and adhering to professional and ethical guidelines
• Staying updated with the latest research in lactation and applying this knowledge in their practice

 

Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist to join our team.

In this role, you will provide professional lactation support to new mothers and infants, ensuring optimal health outcomes.

The Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist is responsible for developing and implementing individualized care plans, conducting breastfeeding assessments, and offering education and support to families.

Our ideal candidate is a compassionate and knowledgeable professional with experience in lactation counseling and a strong commitment to promoting breastfeeding success.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluating and managing breastfeeding problems and providing lactation support
• Developing and implementing individualized care plans for newborns and mothers
• Conducting regular breastfeeding assessments
• Educating families on the benefits and techniques of breastfeeding
• Coordinating care with other healthcare professionals
• Maintaining accurate and timely documentation of patient care
• Staying current with latest research and advancements in lactation and infant care
• Providing emotional support and counseling to new mothers

 

Qualifications

• Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) or International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) required
• Proven experience as a Lactation Specialist in a healthcare setting
• Strong knowledge of breastfeeding techniques and potential complications
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to provide emotional support and counseling
• Experience with pediatric care preferred
• Current CPR certification
• Bachelor’s degree in Nursing or a related field preferred

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist
• Work Environment: Pediatric clinic. Weekend and evening shifts may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Pediatric Care Coordinator or Clinic Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $80,000 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 Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist Do?

Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialists primarily work in healthcare settings like hospitals, pediatric clinics, or private practices.

They might also provide consultation services at home for new mothers and their infants.

These specialists are trained professionals who provide information, guidance, and hands-on clinical assistance to breastfeeding mothers.

They also educate mothers about the benefits of breastfeeding and the techniques involved, ensuring a healthy nursing experience for both the mother and the infant.

Their role involves assessing the infant’s latch and position during breastfeeding, identifying any potential problems, and recommending possible solutions.

They also provide guidance on how to maintain milk production and how to store expressed breast milk safely.

Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialists may work with infants having problems gaining weight and mothers having difficulty with breastfeeding, including those experiencing pain during nursing.

They can also assist mothers of premature babies or multiples, helping them to establish and maintain a strong breastfeeding relationship.

Additionally, they often work in tandem with pediatricians, obstetricians, and other healthcare professionals to ensure a holistic approach to the health and wellbeing of both the mother and baby.

 

Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist must have a range of professional qualifications and skills to provide support and guidance to mothers, including:

• Comprehensive knowledge of breastfeeding techniques, infant nutrition, and maternal health to provide guidance to mothers.
• Excellent communication skills to provide detailed instructions, answer queries, and empathetically discuss any breastfeeding challenges with mothers and families.
• Patient and compassionate demeanor to support mothers who may be struggling with breastfeeding, providing reassurance and practical assistance.
• Problem-solving skills to identify issues with breastfeeding and provide effective solutions to help mothers and babies achieve successful breastfeeding.
• Ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals, including pediatricians and obstetricians, to ensure comprehensive care for mothers and babies.
• Attention to detail to accurately record and monitor mother and baby progress, and adjust breastfeeding plans as necessary.
• Certification as a lactation consultant from an accredited program, such as the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE), and adherence to ongoing professional development.

 

Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist Experience Requirements

Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialists generally are required to have a registered nurse degree, during which they gain a considerable amount of theoretical and practical experience in child and maternal healthcare.

Entry-level Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialists may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship or part-time role in a hospital or pediatric clinic.

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

Candidates are also required to become an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

This certification requires a mix of specific educational courses, clinical practice hours in lactation and breastfeeding care, and a passing score on the international examination.

Those with more than 3 years of experience often develop their lactation consultation skills and knowledge in entry-level roles in hospitals or pediatric clinics.

These professionals may also have experience in conducting prenatal classes, assisting with difficult breastfeeding cases, and providing breastfeeding education to new mothers.

Professionals with more than 5 years of experience as a lactation specialist may have some leadership experience and may be ready for a managerial position or supervisory role in a large pediatric clinic or hospital.

Ongoing education and professional development in the field of lactation are usually required to stay updated with the latest research and techniques.

 

Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialists typically hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing, health sciences, or a related field.

The next step for aspiring lactation specialists is to become a registered nurse (RN), as most lactation specialist roles require this certification.

This involves passing the NCLEX-RN exam after the completion of a nursing program.

Following their RN certification, candidates should gain experience in mother-baby nursing care, as this is a common prerequisite for lactation consulting certification.

The key certification for this role is the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), which is globally recognized.

This certification requires completing specific health science courses, lactation specific education, and hundreds of hours of hands-on lactation support experience.

Continuing education is also critical in this role, as lactation specialists must stay up-to-date with the latest research and practices in breastfeeding support.

Advanced courses or a master’s degree in lactation consulting, while not mandatory, can improve a candidate’s skills and knowledge, and may lead to leadership roles within the field.

 

Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist Salary Expectations

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

The actual earnings may vary based on certification, experience, geographical location, and the size of the employing clinic or hospital.

 

Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist need?

A Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist typically requires a registered nurse (RN) or a nurse practitioner (NP) license, along with a certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

Other related healthcare degrees may also be acceptable, depending on the specific requirements of the clinic.

They also need to have experience in maternal-infant health and breastfeeding support.

 

What are the primary responsibilities of a Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist?

The main responsibilities of a Lactation Specialist include providing breastfeeding support and education to mothers, assessing and troubleshooting common breastfeeding issues, developing individualized care plans, and coordinating care with other healthcare professionals.

They are also responsible for maintaining accurate and timely documentation of their services.

 

What skills are important for a Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist?

Effective communication and interpersonal skills are crucial, as they need to build trusting relationships with mothers and families.

They also need to have problem-solving skills to address a variety of breastfeeding issues.

As this job often involves teaching, strong educational and presentation skills are also beneficial.

Lastly, they should have a compassionate and patient-centered approach to their work.

 

How do I know if a candidate is a good fit for the role of a Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist?

Look for candidates with a strong background in maternal-infant healthcare and breastfeeding support.

They should hold relevant certifications, such as the IBCLC, and should demonstrate a commitment to ongoing education in their field.

In addition, they should display a genuine passion for helping mothers and babies, have strong problem-solving abilities, and show excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

 

Can a Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialist work part-time?

Yes, many Pediatric Clinic Lactation Specialists work part-time, especially in smaller clinics.

However, the job often requires being on-call for emergency consultations, which can sometimes lead to irregular hours.

The flexibility of the role largely depends on the specific requirements of the clinic.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve explored the rewarding role of a pediatric clinic lactation specialist.

And you know what?

It’s not just about providing breastfeeding support.

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

With our specialized pediatric clinic lactation specialist job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to move forward.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your indispensable tool for crafting detailed listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Each feeding session is a part of a larger journey.

Let’s nourish that journey. Together.

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