Nutrition Counselor

Nutrition Counselor, a paraprofessional support person who provides services to WIC clients such as health screening, basic nutrition education, and referrals for healthcare and other services. This position does not have supervisory responsibilities. Employees receive supervision from a designated higher-level staff person with credentials of a Competent Professional Authority (CPA) or above. Minimum Education High School Diploma or GED, 2 years of experience at a WIC clinic providing secondary nutrition to individual clients or groups, completed DC Health required Competent Para Professional Authority training and observation, and able to document counseling notes (Required). Bachelor's Degree, 6 months of experience in a Community Nutrition related field or Dietetic internship, and able to provide individual and group nutrition counseling (Preferred). Minimum Work Experience 2 years of relevant experience (Required). 1 year of counseling in individual and group settings with a Bachelor's degree (Preferred). Required Skills/Knowledge Basic computer skills and ability to learn and apply new technology and skills. Detail-oriented, able to multi-task, with excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Excellent customer service, time management skills, and ability to follow through. Ability to work independently in a multicultural and multidisciplinary environment. Complete WIC para-professional competency training with a passing grade upon hiring. Functional Accountabilities Interview participants using the DC WIC State agency provided assessment tool to obtain participant characteristics, health, and dietary information. Educate participants regarding their rights, responsibilities, food delivery system, WIC foods, and certification schedule. Perform and record height and weight measurements. Perform and record biochemical measurements, such as hemoglobin or lead tests. Screen health and nutritional status, identify health risks. Provide basic nutrition education to non-high risk participants individually or in groups under supervision. Promote breastfeeding benefits to prenatal participants unless contraindicated. Provide substance abuse and smoking cessation information. Provide referrals during screening as appropriate. Complete food prescriptions for infants and non-high risk women and children per policy. Refer high-risk, breastfeeding, or concerned participants beyond scope to CPA or breastfeeding authority. Document all contacts in the DC WIC CARES system. Issue food benefits according to policy. Perform additional tasks as assigned by supervisor. Organizational Accountabilities Anticipate and respond to customer needs; follow up until needs are met. Demonstrate collaborative and respectful behavior; partner with team members. Contribute to a positive work environment, show flexibility, identify process improvements, and use resources efficiently. Promote safety, verify information, communicate clearly, and attend to details.

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