Community Health Worker

About DCHD: Mission: To protect and promote healthier lifestyles through prevention and education. As a certified health department, the Douglas County Health Department is responsible for several programs as well as many other public health services. Programs are grouped into divisions relating to either nursing, environmental health or health education. All programs have an educational component. The goal of this department is to increase the awareness and number of persons reached in this educational process. Benefits: 13-5 Paid Holidays Vacation 3 days of Personal Time Accrual of 1 sick day per month (rollover) Employer paid employee health insurance premium Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) Dental/Vision Life Insurance Tuition Assistance and Loan Repayment Compensation: The full salary range for this position is $20.00-$25.00. The anticipated starting salary is $20.00-$22.00, depending on the selected candidate’s directly related experience, education, licensure, certifications, and overall qualifications, as well as internal equity and available funding. An exceptionally qualified candidate may be considered above the anticipated starting range, but within the full approved salary range. Hybrid Work Schedule: This position is eligible for a flexible hybrid schedule based on departmental needs and supervisor approval. In-office and remote workdays are not fixed and may vary depending on the supervisor’s schedule, team collaboration needs, community events, meetings, and other job responsibilities. Employees must remain flexible and understand that remote work is not guaranteed on specific days. Job Summary: The Community Health Worker is responsible for empowering and educating residents from Douglas County to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs Duties/Responsibilities: Help support, engage, and educate prioritized population through education programs and initiatives. Event coordination includes planning, organizing, and participating in healthcare education events. Effectively communicating program outcomes through reporting. Foster community partnerships and collaboration. Content creation for programs and social media. Manage and update our online presence through social media and website content. Collaborate with various DCHD programs and grants. Maintain a flexible schedule, working both in-office and remotely as well as during community events. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications and Requirements: Regular predictable attendance is required. Strong communication skills including public speaking and active listening. Respect and understanding for diverse cultural population. Strong time management and organization skills. Ability to build rapport with other professionals and agencies. Critical problem-solving skills. Ability to work a hybrid schedule, in the office and from home as well as events while maintaining appropriate communication with their supervisor (Director of Outreach & Marketing). Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends. Reliable internet connection and cell phone access (stipend available). Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience preferred. Community Health Worker (CHW) certification or willingness to obtain. Experience in public health, social services, or a related field preferred. Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disability to perform the essential functions. DCHD is a smoke free and drug-free workplace in compliance with federal guidelines. This position requires frequent sitting and/or standing. Loading company vehicle with supplies needed for community events, lifting up to 35 lbs. Some events including fairs and parades may be held outside some working in the elements may be required. The Douglas County Health Department is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We embrace and encourage our employees' differences in age, color, disability, ethnicity, family or marital status, gender identity or expression, language, national origin, physical and mental ability, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, veteran status, and other characteristics that make our employees unique. Our employment practices are rooted in our dedication to equal opportunity for all individuals. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in employment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. All employment decisions at the Douglas County Health Department are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to the above-listed characteristics. We provide a work environment free of harassment and retaliation and ensure compliance with all applicable laws that protect the rights of applicants and employees. Our policies reflect and affirm the department's commitment to the principles of fair employment and the elimination of all discriminatory practices. If you require assistance or accommodation during the application process due to a disability, please contact the Human Resources Department at 217-253-4137 X 1207.