Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) Counselor

About the role

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is launching a short-term nutrition project funded by UNICEF, initially 4 months with possible extension, covering seven districts of Punjab province. The IYCF counselor works with the Nutrition Facilitator and Community Outreach Worker as part of a three-person outreach team, reporting to the District Program Officer. The role delivers IYCF counseling and Early Childhood Development (ECD) support at household, village and community level.

Key responsibilities

• Assess IYCF practices among mothers and caregivers of children under 24 months and give tailored one-to-one counseling on breastfeeding and complementary feeding
• Counsel pregnant women on breastfeeding preparation and colostrum feeding, using approved education materials
• Deliver regular IYCF group sessions for mothers and fathers, run mother-to-mother support groups and identify model mothers
• Support ECD activities and ECD Play Labs where they exist
• Support screening, referral and follow-up of malnourished children, and coordinate joint outreach visits
• Maintain records of counseling sessions and submit monthly reports to the District Program Officer
• Work in a three-member team to cover villages and households, and report progress regularly

Required profile

• Minimum bachelor's degree; master's degree preferred; nutrition or health background valued
• At least 3 years of work experience with an INGO or in offices
• Prior experience or familiarity with community health, nutrition, MNCH programs and IYCF counseling is desired
• Willingness to travel extensively within the outreach area, including door-to-door visits

Required skills

• Strong knowledge of IYCF practices, breastfeeding and complementary feeding guidelines
• Session facilitation and presentation skills, able to engage mother and father groups
• Ability to handle difficult questions and resistance respectfully
• Good communication and teamwork skills