Public Health Nutrition Assistant

at State of Vermont in Burlington, Vermont, United States

Job Description

The Vermont Department of Health - Burlington District Office is seeking a dynamic and organized Nutrition Assistant to join our collaborative team of public health professionals serving families in Chittenden County. In this role, you will directly support the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), helping protect and promote the best health for all Vermonters.

This is a full-time, in-person position that blends nutrition education, participant support, and program administration duties in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. This position is not eligible for remote work.

What You'll Do

• Provide one-on-one certification services, nutrition education, and support to WIC participants
• Use motivational interviewing and problem-solving skills to address nutrition related questions from participants and community partners
• Deliver culturally sensitive and inclusive services, including coordinating and utilizing in-person and telephonic interpretation services
• Assist with planning and coordinating maternal and child health nutrition education activities in the WIC office and with community partners
• Support clerical staff with duties that support enrollment, recruitment, retention, and overall office operations

What to Expect
This is a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. Telephones ring frequently, and staff actively manage multiple online platforms, including a texting system, office email, participant portal, and WIC electronic scheduling system. There are frequent opportunities to engage in office-wide and program initiatives, including lactation support, lead screening, and emergency preparedness efforts. The ideal candidate can move seamlessly between tasks, stay organized amid regular interruptions, while always maintaining a welcoming and professional presence.  

Compliance & Professional Standards
This position requires strict adherence to federal and state regulations, including HIPAA confidentiality requirements, and compliance with all WIC program guidelines.
If you are passionate about supporting families, committed to equity and inclusion, and thrive in a busy, collaborative setting, we encourage you to apply. Join us in making a meaningful difference in the health and wellbeing of our community.

The Division of Local Health works to preserve and improve the equitable social, economic, and environmental conditions necessary to attain the highest level of health and well-being for all, thus ensuring healthy Vermonters.  The Division of Local Health is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming environment that respects and celebrates every person's strength, assets, and values.  The Division of Local Health is committed to leading organizational change efforts that address avoidable inequities and injustices as we work towards the elimination of health and health care disparities.  

MISSION - Promote the physical, mental, and social well-being of people in Vermont by advancing equity, protecting against disease and injury, and preparing for health emergencies. 

VISION - All people and communities in Vermont have equitable opportunities to achieve their highest level of health and well-being.    

VALUES 

• Equity: We aim to center health justice and address racism and all forms of oppression in our programs and policies, our approach to collaboration, and how we build and nurture our workforce.      
• Collaboration: We engage with staff and partners to understand complex problems and design responsive solutions.  
• Inclusion: We support a culture of belonging and diversity where people are valued, trusted, and able to be their authentic selves.  
• Harmony: We endorse a balanced, thoughtful, and intentional work environment that allows employees to care for themselves, their families, and the people they serve. 
• Data: We strive for scientific excellence and cultural responsiveness in the collection, analysis, sharing and use of data.
• Environmental Factors

  Duties primarily performed in District Office settings or in outlying service sites.

  Travel to outlying sites will require a driver's license. Private means of transportation may be required.

  Occasional travel to statewide trainings required. Potential travel in difficult weather conditions.

  There is considerable interaction with staff, clients, community partners, providers and the general public. At times of public health emergencies (floods, infectious disease outbreaks, etc.) individuals may be expected to assist. Physical demands vary with the position; generally limited to carrying equipment needed to conduct clinic and education activities. Employees work with a variety of clients and may have contact with potentially dangerous and combative individuals as well as a wide variety of illnesses and diseases. Certain functions may require duty outside of normal work hours.