Public Health Lactation Consultant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving field of public health, the need for lactation consultants is at an all-time high.

As our understanding of infant nutrition grows and evolves, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can guide, support, and advocate for breastfeeding mothers and their infants.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a public health lactation consultant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the field of lactation consulting,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we’re revealing a customizable public health lactation consultant job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Public Health Lactation Consultant Duties and Responsibilities

Public Health Lactation Consultants are healthcare professionals who specialize in the clinical management of breastfeeding.

Their primary role is to support, educate, and assist mothers with breastfeeding, offering expert advice and solutions to any problems that may arise.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Educating and counseling expectant mothers about the benefits and techniques of breastfeeding
• Conducting breastfeeding assessments and creating personalized care plans
• Providing hands-on assistance with breastfeeding, including demonstrating positions and helping mothers understand their babies’ feeding cues
• Addressing common breastfeeding issues, such as latching difficulties, painful feeding, and inadequate milk production
• Consulting with healthcare providers to manage medical conditions affecting breastfeeding, such as nipple trauma, mastitis, and tongue ties
• Advocating for breastfeeding friendly environments and policies in healthcare settings and the community
• Conducting research and keeping up-to-date with the latest evidence-based practices in lactation
• Providing emotional support and reassurance to mothers who are facing challenges with breastfeeding
• Teaching breastfeeding classes or leading support groups
• Documenting and maintaining accurate medical records

 

Public Health Lactation Consultant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Public Health Lactation Consultant to support breastfeeding mothers.

The consultant will be responsible for helping mothers with breastfeeding, ensuring that they receive the necessary knowledge and skills to feed their babies successfully.

The ideal candidate has a passion for maternal and child health, a strong understanding of the benefits of breastfeeding, and excellent interpersonal skills.

The consultant will work directly with mothers, offering personalized advice, support, and guidance.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide expert breastfeeding guidance and support to new and expecting mothers
• Conduct assessments of mother and baby to identify any potential breastfeeding issues
• Create personalized breastfeeding plans for mothers
• Teach breastfeeding techniques and offer practical advice
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care
• Educate family members to support breastfeeding mothers
• Organize and facilitate breastfeeding workshops and classes
• Keep up-to-date with the latest breastfeeding research and guidelines
• Maintain accurate records of consultations and follow-ups

 

Qualifications

• Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or equivalent
• Experience working with new and expecting mothers
• Knowledge of breastfeeding best practices and guidelines
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and work sensitively with clients
• Basic computer skills for record-keeping
• A Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Midwifery, Nutrition, or a related field is preferred

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Public Health Lactation Consultant
• Work Environment: Hospital or clinic setting. Some travel may be required for home visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Maternal and Child Health Services.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate 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 Public Health Lactation Consultant Do?

Public Health Lactation Consultants are specialized healthcare professionals who work within the public health sector.

They primarily support, educate, and advise mothers about breastfeeding and lactation.

They assist mothers in achieving their breastfeeding goals, providing information and hands-on support to address various breastfeeding challenges such as latching difficulties, painful nursing, and low milk production.

As consultants, they assess the physical, psychological, and social needs of both mother and baby as it relates to breastfeeding.

This can involve a review of medical histories and physical assessments, as well as observing feeding sessions.

Lactation Consultants also work closely with other healthcare providers like midwives, obstetricians, and pediatricians, to coordinate care and ensure optimal breastfeeding support for mothers.

Furthermore, they provide training and educational seminars for healthcare staff, volunteers, and members of the community, raising awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding and the role of lactation support.

They also advocate for breastfeeding-friendly environments and policies within healthcare settings and the wider community.

 

Public Health Lactation Consultant Qualifications and Skills

A qualified Public Health Lactation Consultant should possess a combination of clinical skills, knowledge, and interpersonal abilities, such as:

• Expertise in breastfeeding and lactation, with the ability to provide accurate and up-to-date information to mothers and families.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build rapport with mothers, understand their concerns, and provide supportive guidance and education.
• Problem-solving skills to assess and address common breastfeeding issues, such as latching difficulties, low milk supply, and nipple soreness.
• Patient and empathetic approach, recognizing that breastfeeding can be a challenging process for many women.
• Experience in providing culturally sensitive care, understanding that breastfeeding practices and beliefs can vary among different cultures.
• Strong advocacy skills to promote breastfeeding within the community and to challenge societal norms that may deter breastfeeding.
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to professional and ethical guidelines.
• Educational background in a relevant health field, such as nursing or nutrition, with additional training and certification in lactation consulting.

 

Public Health Lactation Consultant Experience Requirements

To become a Public Health Lactation Consultant, individuals generally begin with a health-related bachelor’s degree in areas like nursing, nutrition, child development, or public health.

This provides a foundational understanding of health principles relevant to the role.

Most individuals in this field also pursue certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) which requires specific coursework, clinical experience in providing lactation support, and passing an exam.

Entry-level lactation consultants may have 1-2 years of practical experience, often gained through clinical internships, volunteer roles, or part-time positions in hospitals, breastfeeding clinics, or public health organizations.

Those with 3-5 years of experience in the field generally have more in-depth understanding of breastfeeding counseling and management.

They may have experience working in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, health clinics, and community programs.

Lactation consultants with more than 5 years of experience often have developed advanced skills in breastfeeding support and may have experience in leadership or training roles.

They may have also gained experience working with diverse populations and managing complex lactation issues.

This level of experience may prepare them for supervisory or program development roles within public health or healthcare organizations.

Continuing education and staying current with the latest research and best practices in lactation support are important for all experience levels in this field.

 

Public Health Lactation Consultant Education and Training Requirements

Individuals interested in becoming Public Health Lactation Consultants typically require a bachelor’s degree in nursing, dietetics, public health or a related field.

They need a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy, nutrition, and infant care.

These consultants also need to understand the various challenges mothers may face during breastfeeding and how to provide them with the necessary support and solutions.

Most positions require completion of a lactation consultant training program and certification from a recognized institution, such as the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE).

The IBLCE certification involves passing an exam which tests knowledge of breastfeeding and lactation support.

In addition to formal education, it is important for lactation consultants to have practical experience.

This can be obtained through internships, volunteer work, or employment in healthcare or community settings that involve working with mothers and infants.

Furthermore, to keep abreast of the latest research and developments in the field, they may be required to attend professional development courses or workshops regularly.

A master’s degree in public health, nutrition, or a related field, while not typically required, can enhance a lactation consultant’s career prospects, particularly in research or policy-making roles.

Finally, strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for this role, to educate and support mothers effectively during the breastfeeding process.

 

Public Health Lactation Consultant Salary Expectations

A Public Health Lactation Consultant makes an average salary of $79,007 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary depending on factors like experience, certification, location, and the employing organization.

 

Public Health Lactation Consultant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Public Health Lactation Consultant need?

Public Health Lactation Consultants should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills as they frequently interact with mothers and families.

They should also possess problem-solving skills to address various breastfeeding challenges.

Knowledge about infant nutrition and health, as well as adult education techniques, are crucial.

They should also be compassionate, patient, and have a strong desire to support and encourage mothers.

 

Do Public Health Lactation Consultants need a degree?

Although a specific degree is not always required, most Public Health Lactation Consultants hold a degree in nursing, nutrition, public health, or a related field.

They also need to be certified as a lactation consultant, which generally requires specific coursework, clinical experience in lactation support, and passing an exam.

 

What should you look for in a Public Health Lactation Consultant resume?

Ensure the candidate is certified by an accredited lactation consultant certification program.

Look for experience in providing breastfeeding education and support, as well as working with diverse populations.

Additional qualifications may include experience in maternal and child health and nutrition.

Knowledge about community resources and public health programs is also an asset.

 

What qualities make a good Public Health Lactation Consultant?

A good Public Health Lactation Consultant is empathetic and sensitive to the needs and concerns of breastfeeding mothers.

They have excellent listening skills, patience, and the ability to provide reassurance and encouragement.

They are also knowledgeable about infant feeding practices and are able to explain complex issues in a simple, understandable way.

 

Is it difficult to hire Public Health Lactation Consultants?

Finding qualified Public Health Lactation Consultants can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the job and the specific certification required.

However, offering competitive salaries, supportive work environments, and opportunities for professional development can help attract and retain skilled professionals in this field.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on the intricate role of a public health lactation consultant.

And guess what?

It’s not just about breastfeeding advice.

It’s about promoting healthier beginnings, one nursing mother at a time.

With our ready-to-use public health lactation consultant job description template and real-life examples, you’re all set to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for creating meticulously detailed job listings or for refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every mother and child you guide is a part of a larger public health goal.

Let’s nurture that future. Together.

How to Become a Public Health Lactation Consultant (Complete Guide)

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