Nutrition Assistant- CPPA

UPMC; Altoona (PA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

UPMC is hiring a Nutrition Assistant-CPPA (WIC Program) in Altoona, PA. This hands-on counseling role supports the health of women, infants, and children by performing assessments, delivering nutrition education, and tailoring food packages to participant needs.

Candidates should have a high school diploma or GED, with preferred college coursework in nutrition or dietetics. One year of related experience and a valid driver's license are beneficial for success in this position.

Qualifications

• Minimum high school diploma or GED is required.
• Bachelor's or associate degree in nutrition/dietetics is preferred.
• Experience as a program assistant or Breastfeeding Peer Counselor is valued.
• Ability to present information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Knowledge of community resources and referral processes.
• Valid driver's license and related clearances may be required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and document participant assessments and identify WIC risk codes.
• Deliver and document nutrition education, including breastfeeding support.
• Prepare nutrition care plans and document contacts for low-risk participants.
• Prescribe and tailor food packages for participants.
• Refer participants to other health and social services and document referrals.
• Provide follow-up to referrals and participate in trainings as needed.
• Collaborate with NEC, CPA, Breastfeeding Coordinator when CPPA scope is exceeded.
• Assist with maintaining necessary licensure, certifications, and clearances.

Skills

Counseling skills

Motivational interviewing

Nutrition education

Verbal & written communication

Public health knowledge

Education

High school diploma or GED

Bachelor's or associate degree in nutrition/dietetics preferred

Job description

UPMC is hiring a Nutrition Assistant-CPPA (WIC Program) This is a hands-on counseling position in the premier nutrition education program in the country. The WIC program aims to safeguard the health of low-income women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutrition risk by providing nutritious foods to supplement diets, information on healthy eating, and referrals to health care.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct and document a thorough participant assessment and document identification of WIC risk code(s)

• Deliver and document nutrition education, including breastfeeding promotion and support

• Prepare nutrition care plans and document contacts for low-risk participants

• Prescribe and tailor food packages for participants

• Prefer participants to other health and social services and document such referrals.

• Provide and document appropriate follow-up to referrals. Participate in meetings and continuing education programs as appropriate to job duties.Consult or refer to NEC, CPA, Breastfeeding Coordinator, or Desginated Breastfeeding Expert in the agency when the situation is outside the CPPA scope or the CPPA is unsure how to handle a situation.

• Must have a minimum of a high school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED)

• Bachelor's or associate degree in any field or have passed college course(s) in nutrition or dietetics from an accredited college or university is preferred.

• One year of experience as a program assistant or Breastfeeding Peer Counselor; or one year of experience in a related field Ability to apply basic principles and practices of nutrition and dietetics, breastfeeding, and maternal child health concepts.

• Ability to present educational information using a variety of teaching aides such as pamphlets, flyers, posters, slides, food demonstrations, breast models, etc.

• Ability to present ideas clearly, both verbally and in writing, using language appropriate to the audience.

• Counseling and motivation interviewing skills.

• Knowledge of correct hematological testing procedures Knowledge of correct procedures for determining WIC Risk Code(s) and ability to analyze participants nutritional needs.

• Ability to interpret public health nutrition policies and procedures.

• Familiarity with various community resources, including health and social services.

• Exceptional customer service skills. Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:Act 33 (with renewals) Act 34 (with renewals) Act 73 (with renewals)

• Automotive Insurance

• Driver's License

• Act 33 with renewal

• Act 34 with renewal

• Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran