Community Nutrition Coaches

Nutrition Coach Status: Full-time (Exempt) or Contract (Non-exempt options available) Department: Head Start / Early Head Start – Nutrition & Healthy Eating (NHE) Reports To: Nutrition & Healthy Eating (NHE) Manager (or designee) Location: South Carolina; mix of on-site (centers/home visits), community events, and limited remote; regular in-state travel within SCACAP service area Compensation: $3,500 a month Funding: Grant-funded, non-recurring Position Summary The Nutrition Coach provides one-on-one, culturally responsive coaching to families with dietary restrictions, chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension), and/or obesity risk. The role focuses on practical behavior change, healthy meal planning on a budget, care navigation, and linkage to resources—while aligning with USDA Child Nutrition Guidelines and Head Start/EHS requirements. Key Responsibilities Individual Coaching & Care Navigation Provide 1:1 sessions (in person/telehealth/phone) using motivational interviewing and SMART goal-setting. Tailor guidance for food allergies/intolerances, medically prescribed diets, and chronic condition management plans in collaboration with families’ healthcare providers. Create simple family-friendly meal plans and shopping lists aligned to budget, culture, and preferences. Coordinate referrals to RDs/MDs, WIC, SNAP-Ed, community pantries, and local wellness resources. Education & Engagement Deliver brief, skills-based micro-sessions (label reading, portion sizes, sugar-sweetened beverage swaps, lunchbox ideas). Support parent engagement events and community wellness activities in partnership with NHE staff. Documentation, Data & Compliance Document encounters, goals, and outcomes in approved systems (e.g., ChildPlus or agency database); protect PII/PHI per policy. Track attendance, goal progress, referrals, and follow-up; contribute to monthly/quarterly reporting. Follow Head Start Program Performance Standards, USDA child nutrition requirements, and SCACAP policies. Collaboration Partner with the NHE Manager, Registered Dietitians, Family Advocates, Health/Nutrition staff, and community partners to align plans and avoid duplication. Surface family feedback and barriers (transportation, food access, language) and propose practical solutions. Minimum Qualifications Education: Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Nutrition, Public Health, Health Education, or related field; equivalent experience considered. Experience: 1–3+ years in nutrition coaching, community health, health education, or related family-facing role. Skills: Motivational interviewing, goal-setting, cultural humility, strong communication, documentation accuracy, basic data entry/reporting. Licenses/Access: Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and ability to travel in-state. Compliance: Ability to maintain confidentiality; familiarity with HIPAA/FERPA concepts. Preferred Qualifications Certification/credential such as CHW, Health Coach, DTR, CNS/CNS-S, or experience working under RD guidance. Experience with Head Start/Early Head Start populations or pediatric/community nutrition. Familiarity with ChildPlus or similar data systems. Bilingual (English/Spanish or other prevalent language). Knowledge of food access resources, SNAP/WIC, and community partnerships in South Carolina. Core Competencies Family-centered, strengths-based approach; trauma-informed and culturally responsive. Clear, plain-language communication and teach-back methods. Organization and time management across caseloads, travel, and events. Professional boundaries and confidentiality. Collaboration and problem-solving. Success Metrics (Examples) % of families with a documented coaching plan and SMART goals within 30 days of enrollment. Goal attainment (e.g., sugary drink reduction, fruit/vegetable servings, consistent breakfast). Referral follow-through and closed-loop feedback (WIC, RD consults, community resources). Attendance/retention in coaching sessions and satisfaction scores. Timely, accurate documentation and contribution to monthly/quarterly reports. Work Environment & Physical Requirements Frequent local travel to sites, homes, and community events; ability to lift/transport educational materials (~20 lbs). Occasional evenings/weekends for parent events and health fairs. Ability to maintain professional conduct in homes, centers, and community settings. Background Check & Other Requirements Pre-employment background check, motor vehicle report, and reference check required per SCACAP policy. Proof of work eligibility in the U.S. Adherence to SCACAP policies, mandatory trainings, and safety procedures. Job Types: Full-time, Contract Pay: $3,500.00 per month Work Location: In person