Community Health Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s health-conscious society, the importance of community health workers has never been greater.

As our understanding of wellness evolves, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can promote, maintain, and improve community health.

But let’s delve deeper: What does a community health worker role truly entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core responsibilities of this position,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the role of community health workers,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable community health worker job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Community Health Worker Duties and Responsibilities

Community Health Workers (CHWs) are frontline public health workers who serve as a bridge between underserved communities and healthcare resources.

They typically have a close understanding of the community they serve.

This trusting relationship enables them to serve as a link between health/social services and the community to facilitate access to services and improve the quality and cultural competence of service delivery.

The duties and responsibilities of Community Health Workers include:

• Conducting outreach programs to identify individuals in need of health and social services
• Educating individuals and communities about preventive health measures and healthy lifestyle choices
• Providing information on available resources within the community
• Assisting individuals in receiving the care they need by making referrals and arranging appointments for health services
• Advocating for individuals and community health needs
• Ensuring cultural competence in health service delivery by interpreting and translating for clients and healthcare providers
• Collecting data and reporting findings to health educators and other healthcare providers
• Participating in community assessments to identify resources and gaps in service, and participating in the planning and implementation of community health programs
• Providing informal counseling, support, and follow-up
• Working closely with healthcare professionals and organizations to improve and expand service delivery

 

Community Health Worker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and empathetic Community Health Worker to support the health of our community.

The Community Health Worker will be responsible for helping individuals and communities to adopt healthy behaviors and also act as a liaison between the community and healthcare institutions to facilitate access to services and improve the quality of care.

The ideal candidate should have excellent interpersonal skills, be able to work with diverse populations, and have an understanding of social determinants of health.

 

Responsibilities

• Act as a liaison between the community and healthcare providers
• Facilitate health promotion activities and workshops
• Perform home visits to assess and manage health conditions
• Provide support in navigating health and social services
• Collect data to help identify community health needs
• Advocate for individual and community health needs
• Provide health education and coaching
• Refer individuals to appropriate services and resources
• Work collaboratively with a team of healthcare professionals

 

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Certification as a Community Health Worker preferred
• Previous experience in a similar role is a plus
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Knowledge of local resources and services
• Ability to work with diverse populations
• Understanding of confidentiality obligations and nursing best practices
• Proficiency in English; second language a plus
• Must have reliable transportation

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Community Health Worker
• Work Environment: This position involves working in a variety of settings, including homes, schools, clinics and community centers. Some travel within the local community is required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Community Health Supervisor or Program Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $45,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Community Health Worker Do?

Community Health Workers are key figures in local communities as they work on the front lines of healthcare delivery.

They are typically affiliated with health departments, non-profit organizations, hospitals, or other healthcare institutions.

Community Health Workers are known for their deep understanding of the communities they serve, often sharing the same language, culture, and lived experiences.

This helps them to build a strong and trusting relationship with community members.

Their roles may include conducting health assessments and screenings, providing health education and counseling, and assisting individuals in obtaining and utilizing appropriate healthcare services.

They often act as a link between healthcare providers and the community to facilitate access to services and improve the quality and cultural competence of service delivery.

Community Health Workers also advocate for individual and community health needs, and provide input for policies, strategies, and interventions that promote health equity and improve community health and well-being.

Moreover, they may also work on disease prevention and health promotion programs, conducting outreach to engage community members, organizing health events, and providing supportive services such as transportation or translation services.

Overall, Community Health Workers play a critical role in improving health outcomes and reducing health disparities by connecting communities with the healthcare system and promoting health and wellness at the community level.

 

Community Health Worker Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Community Health Worker should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Knowledge of public health principles and practices, including disease prevention and health promotion strategies.
• A strong understanding of the social and cultural factors affecting health behaviors in the community they serve.
• Ability to educate individuals and groups about how to improve their health, including understanding their health conditions, managing their illnesses, and accessing needed services.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to build trusting relationships with community members and effectively communicate health information.
• Advocacy skills to represent and advocate for the community’s needs and concerns with healthcare providers and policymakers.
• Organizational skills for coordinating and managing health programs and activities, tracking patient progress, and documenting services provided.
• Problem-solving skills to navigate complex health and social service systems on behalf of community members.
• Cultural competency and sensitivity to work with diverse populations, respecting their beliefs, values, and customs.

 

Community Health Worker Experience Requirements

Community Health Workers typically require a significant amount of practical experience, often gained through a relevant educational program, vocational training, or on-the-job training.

Entry-level candidates may have gained their experience through internships, volunteer work in health-related non-profit organizations, or part-time roles in a public health setting.

They can also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Health Educator, Patient Advocate, or Community Outreach Worker.

Candidates with 1 to 3 years of experience often develop their skills and knowledge in entry-level Community Health Worker roles.

They might have hands-on experience in delivering health education, coordinating care for patients, or working closely with healthcare professionals to improve community health services.

Those with more than 3 years of experience may have some supervisory or program management experience in their background, particularly in areas such as health education programs, community health initiatives, or health advocacy campaigns.

These candidates may be ready for senior or leadership roles within the community health sector.

Lastly, Community Health Workers must have a strong understanding and sensitivity to the communities they serve, often requiring both cultural and linguistic competency.

This experience can be gained through living in or working closely with these communities.

 

Community Health Worker Education and Training Requirements

Community Health Workers typically have at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education.

They may also pursue certificate or associate degree programs in community health education, public health, health promotion, or a related field.

These programs offer training in areas like health education and wellness, community resources, cultural awareness, and health advocacy.

Some states require Community Health Workers to be certified.

The certification process often involves completing an approved training program and passing an exam.

Some certification programs also require individuals to complete a certain number of hours of continuing education each year.

Community Health Workers need to have a good understanding of the specific health issues and resources of the community they are serving.

Therefore, on-the-job training and experience working in a community setting can be beneficial.

There are also optional certifications and training that Community Health Workers may pursue to specialize in specific areas or demonstrate competence.

Continuing education is important for keeping up with new developments in the field and enhancing one’s skills and knowledge.

 

Community Health Worker Salary Expectations

A Community Health Worker can expect an average salary of $42,000 (USD) per year.

However, this salary can fluctuate based on factors such as the worker’s years of experience, specific skills, education, and the location of the job.

 

Community Health Worker Job Description FAQs

What skills does a community health worker need?

A Community Health Worker should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to facilitate effective interaction with diverse community members.

They should also have strong problem-solving skills to help address different health-related challenges.

Knowledge of local culture and language is beneficial, and so are basic medical skills to perform first aid, health checks, and disease prevention education.

 

Do community health workers need a degree?

While a degree is not always necessary, having an associate or bachelor’s degree in health education or a similar field is beneficial.

Training is usually provided on the job, and some states require certification.

The necessary requirements vary by location and employer.

 

What should you look for in a community health worker’s resume?

Look for experience in public health, social work, or a related field.

Any specialized training or certification should also be highlighted.

Being bilingual or multilingual can be a significant advantage, as well as familiarity with the community they will serve.

Evidence of soft skills such as empathy, problem-solving, and communication is also valuable.

 

What qualities make a good community health worker?

A good community health worker is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and committed to improving community health.

They should have a strong understanding of the community’s needs and concerns and should be capable of building trust with community members.

Good problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to health education and promotion are also essential qualities.

 

What are the daily duties of a community health worker?

A typical day for a community health worker may involve visiting community members in their homes, conducting health screenings, organizing health education workshops, and advocating for individual and community health needs.

They also connect community members with health resources and services, and work closely with healthcare professionals to ensure that these services meet the community’s needs.

 

Is it challenging to hire community health workers?

Hiring community health workers can be challenging as the role requires a unique blend of skills, including strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and a good understanding of public health issues.

It may be particularly challenging to find individuals who are intimately familiar with the community they will serve.

However, offering comprehensive training and a supportive work environment can help attract potential candidates.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve dug deep into what it truly means to be a community health worker.

And guess what?

It’s not just about healthcare.

It’s about molding the future of community health, one individual at a time.

With our handy community health worker job description template and real-life instances, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for crafting precise listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every individual you assist contributes to the broader health of the community.

Let’s enhance community health. Together.

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