Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the healthcare industry, the importance of pediatric office lactation specialists is growing increasingly apparent.

As the field of pediatrics evolves, the demand for experts who can provide, promote and support breastfeeding guidance for mothers is on the rise.

But what does the role of a pediatric office lactation specialist truly encompass?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker interested in understanding the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the daily tasks of a lactation specialist,

You’ve come to the right place.

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

Let’s delve deeper into it.

Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

A Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist provides support and education to breastfeeding mothers and babies, ensuring they are getting the nutritional support they need.

They also provide advice and guidance on breastfeeding techniques and manage any breastfeeding related complications or problems.

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

• Providing breastfeeding support and education to mothers and families during pregnancy, postpartum, and ongoing as needed
• Assessing, diagnosing, and treating any breastfeeding difficulties or conditions such as latch issues, low milk supply, or painful breastfeeding
• Collaborating with healthcare providers to develop and implement care plans for breastfeeding mothers and infants
• Educating families about the importance of breastfeeding and the role it plays in infant nutrition and health
• Providing emotional support and reassurance to mothers experiencing difficulties or complications with breastfeeding
• Keeping accurate and up-to-date patient records, including assessments, care plans, and progress notes
• Staying informed about the latest research and developments in lactation and breastfeeding support
• Conducting breastfeeding classes or workshops for expectant or new mothers
• Ensuring the privacy and comfort of breastfeeding mothers in the pediatric office

 

Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a knowledgeable and compassionate Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist to join our team.

The candidate will be responsible for providing breastfeeding support, education, and guidance to mothers and infants.

The Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist will conduct breastfeeding assessments, create care plans, and provide breastfeeding education to mothers and families.

The ideal candidate should be a certified lactation consultant with a deep understanding of the breastfeeding process and the ability to manage any potential issues or complications.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide breastfeeding support and guidance to new mothers
• Conduct breastfeeding assessments and create care plans for infants and mothers
• Educate mothers and families about the benefits and techniques of breastfeeding
• Work with healthcare team to develop and implement breastfeeding policies and protocols
• Manage breastfeeding issues or complications such as latching difficulties, painful nursing, and low milk production
• Provide emotional support to mothers struggling with breastfeeding
• Keep accurate medical records and documentation
• Stay up-to-date with the latest research and practices in lactation

 

Qualifications

• Certified Lactation Consultant or Certified Lactation Counselor required
• Experience in pediatrics or obstetrics preferred
• Strong understanding of the breastfeeding process and potential complications
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Compassionate and patient with a desire to support new mothers
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team
• Knowledge of electronic medical records systems
• Bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related field preferred

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist
• Work Environment: Pediatric office setting. Some travel may be required for home visits or hospital consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Pediatric Office Manager or Lead Pediatrician.
• 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 Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist Do?

A Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist primarily works in pediatric clinics or hospitals, assisting new mothers in breastfeeding their infants.

They provide education and support to mothers on various aspects of breastfeeding, including correct positioning and latching techniques, milk production, and how to use breast pumps and other breastfeeding equipment.

In addition, they can assist in diagnosing and treating issues related to breastfeeding such as engorgement, mastitis, and poor weight gain in the infant.

They also offer advice and guidance on different breastfeeding-related challenges, such as returning to work, supplementing with formula, and weaning.

A Lactation Specialist will also work closely with pediatricians and other healthcare providers to ensure a comprehensive approach to the child’s health and nutrition.

They may also facilitate breastfeeding support groups, leading discussions and addressing common concerns among new mothers.

Their main goal is to promote breastfeeding as a vital part of infant health and to ensure mothers feel confident and supported in their breastfeeding journey.

 

Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist should have the qualifications and skills that are essential to this role, such as:

• Understanding of infant feeding behaviors, maternal lactation physiology, and breastfeeding techniques
• Ability to assess and provide guidance to mothers who are experiencing lactation issues
• Excellent communication skills to educate parents and caregivers on breastfeeding and to coordinate with other healthcare providers
• Compassionate and patient interpersonal skills to deal with new mothers and their infants
• Problem-solving skills to help handle various lactation problems and provide appropriate solutions
• Knowledge of breastfeeding equipment like pumps, nipple shields, etc., and their use
• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and handle infants safely
• Detail-oriented to keep accurate records and follow strict health and safety guidelines
• Certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or similar qualifications in lactation support

 

Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist Experience Requirements

Pediatric Office Lactation Specialists generally complete a certified training course approved by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE).

This involves gaining significant practical and theoretical knowledge about breastfeeding and other neonatal nutrition issues.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship or part-time role in a pediatric or maternity hospital, where they have offered lactation support to new mothers.

These professionals can also gain practical experience in roles such as Neonatal Nurse, Midwife, or other related healthcare roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience would have typically expanded their practical knowledge and skills in lactation consulting in pediatric offices, hospitals, or maternity homes.

This experience is often coupled with a background in nursing or healthcare.

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

Such candidates often possess a wealth of practical experience in pediatric nutrition and breastfeeding management, and may have also acquired additional certifications that denote their advanced knowledge and skills.

 

Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Pediatric Office Lactation Specialists typically require a bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Health Education, or a related field.

They also need comprehensive training in breastfeeding and infant nutrition.

This can be obtained through various lactation consultant certification programs offered by accredited institutions.

To become an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), candidates must meet the eligibility requirements set by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE).

This includes a significant number of contact hours working with breastfeeding families, and completion of specific health science courses.

Candidates are also required to pass the IBCLC certification exam to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in lactation management.

Some positions, especially those in specialized pediatric practices, may also require Pediatric Office Lactation Specialists to have a master’s degree in Lactation Consulting or a related discipline.

Ongoing education is necessary as it helps the specialists to stay updated with the latest research findings and advancements in lactation support and infant nutrition.

Therefore, many specialists pursue continuing education and advanced courses in their field.

Having a master’s degree and/or other relevant certifications may also indicate a candidate’s dedication to their profession and commitment to providing the best support to breastfeeding families.

 

Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist Salary Expectations

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

The actual earnings may vary based on the specialist’s level of experience, location, and the employing healthcare facility.

 

Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist need?

Pediatric Office Lactation Specialists require strong interpersonal and communication skills as they work closely with mothers, babies, and their families.

They must have a deep understanding of breastfeeding and related topics, along with a compassionate and empathetic approach to help mothers facing difficulties.

They also need problem-solving skills to assess and address breastfeeding issues effectively.

 

Do Pediatric Office Lactation Specialists need a degree?

Yes, Pediatric Office Lactation Specialists typically need a degree in nursing, nutrition, or a related field.

This is often followed by a specialized certification in lactation, such as Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) or International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

Some roles may also require state licensure as a registered nurse.

 

What should you look for in a Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist’s resume?

When reviewing a Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist’s resume, the first thing to look for is appropriate education and certification in lactation.

Experience working in a pediatric setting, or with mothers and infants, is also crucial.

Additional skills to look for include communication skills, compassion, and patience.

 

What qualities make a good Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist?

A good Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist is empathetic and patient, as they will often be working with mothers who are facing difficulties and may be stressed or worried.

They should be good listeners, to understand the issues at hand fully, and problem-solvers, to provide effective solutions.

They should also have a passion for promoting and supporting breastfeeding.

 

Is it difficult to hire Pediatric Office Lactation Specialists?

Hiring a Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist can be challenging due to the specific qualifications and skills required for the job.

There is also significant demand for these professionals in healthcare settings.

To attract qualified candidates, offering competitive pay, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment can be beneficial.

 

Conclusion

There you have it!

Today, we’ve given you an inside look at what being a Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist truly entails.

Here’s the truth:

It’s not just about feeding babies.

It’s about supporting the health and development of infants, one feeding at a time.

With our ready-to-use Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to take the next step.

But don’t stop just yet!

Further your knowledge with our job description generator. It’s your guide to creating precision-crafted listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every feeding session is a step towards a healthier and happier baby.

Let’s nurture the future. Together.

How to Become a Pediatric Office Lactation Specialist (Complete Guide)

The Robot Revolution: Surprising Jobs That AI Will Dominate

The Groan-Worthy Grinds: The Most Hated Jobs in the Economy

Career Oddities: Unusual Jobs That Break the Norm

Job Market Hotspots: Careers with Skyrocketing Demand