Nutrition Assistant - WIC Peer Counselor

Olmsted County has earned the 2023, 2024, and 2025 Best Places to Work - Southeast Minnesota designation.

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Expected starting salary is $23.58 to $31.49. Full salary range is $23.58 - $39.39.

Associate’s degree from an accredited college nutrition, dietetics, health care, child development or related field and one (1) year of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.

OR

Combination of education and experience equivalent to three (3) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.

Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver’s license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

• Ability to speak and write fluently in Spanish.
• Previous experience with breastfeeding, having breastfed at least one baby.
• Current or previous Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program participant.

Nature of Work

THIS IS A PART-TIME, 0.90 FTE POSITION WORKING 36 HOURS PER WEEK.

Under supervision, provides customer service to a diverse population in support of the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program. Collects and reviews client data to determine eligibility for nutrition programs. Processes client applications, informs clients of eligibility requirements, and provides information about WIC program services. Provides basic breastfeeding information, positive reinforcement, and encouragement to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding clients. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace.

Examples of Work

• Greets clients for appointments and collects health screening information including height, weight, and hemoglobin.
• Determines client eligibility for WIC programs and provides program information.
• Schedules appointments for program participants.
• Maintains and updates electronic records. 
• Answers questions and provides information to clients by phone, email, text, and in person.
• Provides support, encouragement, and breastfeeding information to clients. 
• Assists clients with accessing breastfeeding resources. Refers clients to the designated WIC staff, health care professional, community resources, and social service agencies.
• Available outside normal WIC clinic hours (7:30am - 6pm) to support client breastfeeding goals over the phone, approximately 4 hours per week. 
• Supports the department during disease outbreaks or emergency situations that may require non-standard work hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Knowledge of available community resources.
• Knowledge of federal, state and county requirements, regulations, and policies relating to nutrition programs.
• Knowledge of breastfeeding techniques and best practices.
• Skill in providing customer service.
• Skill in working with a diverse population.
• Skill in the use of computers and technology.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to organize and prioritize job activities.
• Ability to maintain accurate records.
• Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work with interpreters.

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.