Risevoic
Lactation Consultant
Company : Oregon Health & Science University
Location : Portland, OR, 97201
Job Type : Full Time / Part Time
Date Posted : 12 January 2026
Department Overview
The OHSU Division of Geriatrics and Internal Medicine is seeking a Certified Lactation Specialist to join an innovative, multidisciplinary team of clinicians and researchers implementing the CTN-157 Digitally Enhanced Peer Doula Program.
This is a .30 FTE position with a daytime schedule and may include weekend or evening hours. This position will be a hybrid assignment including both remote and in-person activities.
Function/Duties of Position
This groundbreaking program develops and pilot-tests interventions designed to support pregnant individuals with substance use disorder (SUD), particularly those who are not currently engaged in treatment or referred during healthcare encounters (e.g., emergency departments, hospital admissions, etc.).
The Lactation Specialist will be a certified lactation specialist that will help to ensure that the initial mother-baby bond of breastfeeding is set up for the highest chance of success possible. In addition, they will offer important help to participants who are pregnant who may have concerns about breastfeeding before delivery. They will also offer support to new mothers participating in the program, providing both educational and clinical support. The Lactation Specialist will closely collaborate with peers with lived experience, clinicians, and researchers to improve maternal–infant health outcomes.
The ideal candidate will bring experience across integrated medical and behavioral health settings, demonstrate commitment to serving underserved and vulnerable populations, and has experience providing lactation support to individuals affected by substance use disorders.
Required Qualifications
- BS in nursing, health education or relevant field Three (3) years of work experience preferably in a health care setting providing nursing or medical support
- Experience in providing integrative care with a track record of working with teams of health care providers
- and support staff from different disciplines.
- Three (3) years supervised clinical hours working with breastfeeding mothers and infants.
- Demonstrated experience working with individuals with substance use disorder
- License from an accredited training program; Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) or equivalent
Preferred Qualifications
- RN, BSN or equivalent in nursing
- IBCLC certification exam, which covers topics such as breastfeeding anatomy, physiology, assessment, and counseling or equivalent
All are welcome
Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or aaeo@ohsu.edu.
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Frequently asked questions
Portland's healthcare community increasingly values certified lactation consultants due to rising awareness of maternal and infant health. With programs like those at Oregon Health & Science University pioneering digital peer support, the demand for skilled lactation specialists, particularly those experienced with vulnerable populations, is growing steadily.
Employers in Portland often seek candidates with IBCLC certification or Certified Lactation Counselor credentials, reflecting rigorous standards. Local facilities like OHSU value certifications combined with experience in integrated care and substance use disorder support, aligning with regional health priorities.
Lactation consultants play a crucial role in establishing effective mother-infant breastfeeding bonds by providing tailored education and clinical guidance. They help navigate challenges, especially for mothers facing substance use disorders, enhancing breastfeeding initiation and continuation rates within multidisciplinary healthcare settings.
Starting as certified specialists, lactation consultants can advance to leadership roles in maternal-child health programs or research teams. Portland's progressive institutions like OHSU encourage growth through interdisciplinary collaboration and involvement in innovative pilot projects supporting underserved populations.
At OHSU, lactation consultants balance clinical support, educational outreach, and collaboration with peers and researchers. Their work includes assisting pregnant individuals with breastfeeding concerns, supporting new mothers post-delivery, and integrating care strategies tailored to patients with substance use disorders.
OHSU's lactation consultant roles stand out due to their hybrid work model and focus on research-backed programs like the CTN-157 peer doula initiative. This setting fosters multidisciplinary teamwork and innovation, particularly serving pregnant individuals with substance use challenges in a culturally inclusive environment.
OHSU is committed to fostering a diverse workforce and inclusive culture by actively encouraging applicants from varied backgrounds. Their affirmative action policies and accommodations ensure equitable opportunities, reflecting Portland's progressive values in healthcare employment.
Lactation consultants in Portland typically earn between $65,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on experience and certification level. Positions at institutions like OHSU may offer competitive salaries aligned with specialized roles supporting substance use disorder populations and hybrid work schedules.
While not universally mandatory, experience with substance use disorder significantly enhances a candidate’s suitability in Portland’s healthcare landscape, especially for roles at OHSU. This expertise supports effective, sensitive care for pregnant individuals facing these challenges, aligning with local health initiatives.
Internships offering exposure to integrated healthcare teams and clinical hours with breastfeeding mothers are highly valued. Training that includes substance use disorder awareness and certification programs like IBCLC or CLC prepare candidates to meet the specialized demands of OHSU's innovative maternal-infant health projects.