What are the responsibilities and job description for the Degreed WIC Nutrition Assistant position at LUNDQUIST INSTITUTE FOR BIOMEDICAL INNOVATION AT HARBOR-UCLA?
Position Summary
The Degreed WIC Nutrition Assistant (WNA) plays a vital role in delivering nutrition, health, and breastfeeding/chestfeeding education and support to WIC participants. This position requires a foundational understanding of maternal and child health (MCH), nutrition, and in-depth knowledge of WIC regulations and procedures.
The Degreed WNA is responsible for certifying participants, conducting risk assessments, delivering both individual and group education sessions, and supporting the goals of the Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program. The position also contributes to administrative site operations and participates in outreach efforts to connect families with WIC and other MCH services.
Key Responsibilities
WIC Services
- Certify WIC applicants and participants in accordance with federal and state guidelines.
- Conduct nutrition and breastfeeding/chestfeeding risk assessments, including medical data review.
- Provide participant-centered education (PCE) and counseling using motivational interviewing (MI) techniques.
- Deliver group education sessions on nutrition, breastfeeding/chestfeeding, and health topics.
- Offer breastfeeding/chestfeeding support for common issues and concerns.
- Refer participants appropriately to in-house and community resources following program protocols.
- Accurately enter and maintain participant data in WIC Web Information System Exchange (WISE).
Outreach and Education
- Participate in community outreach events, health fairs, and educational presentations.
- Promote WIC services to community organizations, schools, clinics, and faith-based groups.
- Support agency Provider Relations and Outreach initiatives by engaging with eligible populations and service providers.
Administrative and Technical Tasks
- Maintain accurate records, complete required reports, and handle immunization (IZ) assessments.
- Manage and distribute WIC WISE cards securely and according to established procedures.
- Assist with staff training and support as assigned.
Program and Site Support
- Contribute to creating a breastfeeding/chestfeeding-friendly environment.
- Follow protocols for all health and nutrition education activities.
- Provide coverage and support at alternate Lundquist WIC locations when required.
- Adhere to all workplace safety, ergonomic, and attendance policies.
- Other duties as assigned in support of program goals and site operations.
Qualifications
Education & Training
- Bachelor’s degree in public health, health education, or a related field.
- WNA certification is preferred.
Experience
- Minimum one year of experience in customer service, nutrition or health, education, counseling, or health-related training.
- WIC experience preferred.
Licensing & Transportation
- Valid California driver’s license.
- Proof of auto insurance and reliable transportation with valid CA registration.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Proficient knowledge of WIC policies and procedures and WIC WISE.
- Familiarity with maternal and child nutrition and lactation support.
- Strong group facilitation and individual counseling skills using MI and PCE methods.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Technologically proficient; able to use WIC WISE, Zoom for Government, and email.
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently.
- Demonstrated cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse populations.
- Willingness to develop proficiency in conversational Spanish.
- Dependable, flexible, and committed to providing outstanding customer service.
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements
Essential Functions
- Work is primarily conducted in an office setting with participant interaction.
- Must be able to sit, use a computer, and operate a keyboard for extended periods.
- Requires telephone use, data entry, and occasional bending or reaching.
Secondary Functions
- Travel to other WIC sites as needed.
- Occasional walking, stair climbing, and transporting documents.
Employee Acknowledgment
As an employee of The Lundquist Institute within SLAHP, you are expected to treat all staff, participants, and clients with courtesy and respect. Quality service includes responding to questions, solving problems, and ensuring the individual is connected to the appropriate person if their concern falls outside your scope. Responsibility for participant satisfaction includes follow-through to ensure needs are fully addressed. I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and accept the responsibilities outlined in this job description.
Salary : $23 - $30