FUNCTION OF THE JOB
This position directly reports to the Director of Mental Health and is under the supervision of the Director of Mental Health. The Community Health Worker (CHW) serves as a liaison between individuals, families, the community, and health and social service systems. The CHW provides outreach, education, social support, and advocacy to improve access to services and overall health outcomes.
Instructions received for new assignments may be both verbal and written and will clearly describe assignments, methods, and procedures for work performance. Work is carried out in accordance with established public health guidelines and departmental procedures. The Community Health Worker may work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team under general supervision.
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Conducts outreach to individuals and families in the community to promote health education, prevention, and available public health services.
- Serves as a liaison between clients and healthcare providers, social services, and community organizations to improve access to care and resources.
- Assists clients in navigating healthcare systems and community resources, including but not limited to WIC, SNAP, housing, transportation, and other social support services.
- Provides culturally appropriate health education and information to individuals and groups to improve health literacy and encourage healthy behaviors.
- Builds and maintains relationships with community partners, agencies, and organizations to support coordinated service delivery.
- Assists clients with completing applications and accessing eligible benefits and services.
- Conducts home visits, community visits, and office visits as needed to support clients in preferred and accessible settings.
- Identifies barriers to care, including social determinants of health, and works collaboratively to address those barriers.
- Participates in interdisciplinary team meetings to support care coordination and program planning.
- Documents all client interactions accurately and timely in required databases while maintaining confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and departmental policies.
- Assists with planning, coordinating, and participating in community events, outreach activities, and health education programs.
- Provides peer support and supportive guidance within scope of training and refers clients to appropriate professionals when needs exceed scope of practice.
- Maintains current knowledge of community resources, public health programs, and best practices through training, meetings, and professional development.
- Manages assigned caseload and prioritizes work effectively to meet program goals and client needs.
- May be required to work flexible hours, including evenings or weekends, and travel within the county or surrounding areas.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Training and Experience
- Requires a High School Diploma or equivalent.
- Community Health Worker certification preferred or MUST to obtain within 3 months.
- Previous experience in public health, social services, community outreach, case management, or a related field preferred.
- CPR certification preferred or required within a reasonable time after hire.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of auto insurance.
- Knowledge of local community resources and the ability to connect individuals to appropriate services.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to educate, motivate, and build trust with diverse populations.
- Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse cultural, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and demonstrate effective time management.
- Skill in problem-solving, critical thinking, and adapting to changing situations in community-based settings.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information in compliance with HIPAA.
- Proficiency in basic computer skills, including data entry, email, and use of electronic record systems.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- This is a Non-Exempt position.
- Working environment: Christian County Health Department office, community settings, and client homes. Work may occasionally occur outdoors.
- Hours of work: Typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with flexibility for evenings, weekends, and special events as needed. Position may be part-time or full-time depending on program needs.
- Travel: Frequent travel within the county and surrounding areas is required.
- Work space: Office, community locations, client homes, and outreach event settings.
- Christian County requires residency for all employees, but this requirement may be waived under certain circumstances.
- This position may involve exposure to communicable diseases and unpredictable environments in community or home settings.
PHYSICAL ASPECTS
Standing: 25% of time
Walking: 40% of time
Sitting: 35% of time
b.
Lifting: up to 30 lbs
Carrying: up to 30 lbs
Pushing: up to 20 lbs
Pulling: up to 20 lbs
The position may involve some degree of the following: climbing, stooping, balancing, kneeling, reaching, handling, and may involve sensory activities including seeing/vision, speaking, hearing, and depth perception.
Pay: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
