Milk Technician - Pediatrics

We've made a lot of progress since opening the doors in 1942, but one thing has never changed - our commitment to serve, heal, lead, educate, and innovate.  We believe that every award earned, every record broken and every patient helped is because of the dedicated employees who fill our hallways. 

At Ochsner, whether you work with patients every day or support those who do, you are making a difference and that matters.  Come make a difference at Ochsner Health and discover your future today! 

The Milk Technician is responsible for the preparation, delivery and monitoring of human milk, donor milk, infant and pediatric formulas and enteral nutrition products. This role ensures adherence to all food safety, sanitation regulations and standards established by regulatory agencies and the healthcare facility. The technician uses feeding preparation equipment, maintains sanitation in prep areas, performs inventory, and communicates effectively with allied health team members. This role also includes participation in quality improvement activities and complies with federal, state and local regulations.

Job Description

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

This job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Education

Required - High school diploma or equivalent

Preferred - Associate's degree in Biology, Microbiology, Dietetic Services

Work Experience

Required - experience in healthcare, food service or related field

Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

• Must have computer skills and dexterity required for data entry and retrieval of information.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills and the ability to present information clearly and professionally.
• Must be proficient with Windows-style applications, various software packages specific to role and keyboard.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and maintain compliance with Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) guidelines.
• Ability to perform accurate calculations related to preparation, storage, and distribution processes.
• Ability to consistently follow standardized steps for milk preparation, receiving and shipping and maintain inventory of supplies needed to accomplish assigned duties.
• Adapts behavior to the specific patient population, including but not limited to: respect for privacy, method of introduction to the patient, adapting explanation of services or procedures to be performed, requesting permissions and communication style.
• Ability to withstand frequent interruptions and moderate noise level. 
• Ability to function calmly under pressure. 

Job Duties

• Human Milk and Formula: Preparation: Verify patient-specific feeding orders using 2 patient identifiers (e.g. name & medical record number) before preparing and labeling human milk, donor milk, or formula to ensure the right product is provided to the right patient.  Calculate, prepare, label, and store human milk, donor milk, and formula, using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method.  Prepare feedings according to patient specific orders and dietician instructions using aseptic techniques.  Receive, store, thaw, and monitor the expiration of human milk and formula, discarding expired products per facility protocols.
• Documentation and Communication: Prior to delivering feedings, confirm patient identity at the bedside using two patient identifiers to ensure accurate matching of nutrition products to patient profiles, reducing risks of errors. Update computerized patient feeding profiles and generate production lists. Maintain accurate records of prepared feedings, production logs, and sanitation documentation. Communicate effectively with supervisors, dietitians, and healthcare team members regarding patient feeding needs and order discrepancies.
• Inventory Management: Track inventory, order supplies, and rotate stock to ensure availability of human milk and formula. Record freezer and refrigerator tempera