Community Health Specialist II
About The Position
The Trager Institute is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Community Health Specialist II, to act as a relationship-builder and systems connector responsible for strengthening collaboration between local health care systems, social service agencies, and community organizations to improve care coordination and transitions of care for older adults. This role focuses on breaking down barriers, aligning partners around shared goals, and creating sustainable pathways that support aging adults and their caregivers. This position works with the Cumberland Valley Area Agency on Aging, which is located in Laurel County, Kentucky. Must be located in or willing to commute to Cumberland Valley Area Agency on Aging, which is located in Laurel County, Kentucky. This position is grant funded and is contingent upon the renewal of those funds.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in a related field and two (2) years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience Grade 5 (Salaried)
Nice To Haves
- Degree in public health, social work, nursing, gerontology, community development, or related field.
- Three (3) or more years’ experience in community organizing, care coordination, or health system integration
- Previous experience engaging with older adults and community members, with an understanding of their unique needs, strengths, and healthcare considerations.
- Knowledgeable about local community resources and services that promote wellbeing, independence, and age-friendly environments.
- Strong knowledge of older adult services, aging networks, and chronic disease management.
- Demonstrated success in convening diverse stakeholders and building sustainable partnerships.
- Understanding of health equity and social determinants of health.
- Connector and influencer, able to build trust across systems, foster collaboration, and encourage shared accountability among partners.
- Skilled problem-solver who can identify systemic barriers and develop actionable solutions that promote equitable and effective outcomes.
- Systems thinker, should understand the complexity of healthcare and social service networks and how these systems interrelate to support older adults and caregivers.
- Culturally responsive, engaging respectfully and effectively with diverse populations while centering on the experiences and needs of older adults and their families.
- Excellent facilitation, negotiation, and coalition-building skills.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to evaluate progress, adapt strategies, and offer solutions that advance shared goals and improve outcomes for older adults in the community.
- Organized and task-oriented, with strong teamwork and collaboration skills to effectively manage projects, delegate responsibilities, and ensure timely completion of activities.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust, foster relationships, and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including older adults, caregivers, community partners, and interdisciplinary professionals.
Responsibilities
- Convene hospitals, primary care providers, long-term care, home health, and social service organizations to form collaborative networks for older adult care.
- Coordinate and facilitate regular committee meetings to guide program direction and community priorities.
- Promote inclusive participation by ensuring diverse stakeholders have meaningful opportunities to contribute.
- Facilitate shared agreements, referral processes, and communication channels among partners.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with community organizations, agencies, and service providers to align programming and share resources.
- Lead initiatives to standardize warm handoffs, care plans, and data-sharing protocols to reduce avoidable hospital readmissions and emergency department use.
- Promote integration of medical and non-medical supports (transportation, housing, nutrition, caregiver support, behavioral health)
- Facilitate cross-sector meetings, workshops, and action planning to align on measurable outcomes.
- Plan, promote, and implement events that foster community connection and raise awareness of aging-related initiatives.
- Train partners on care transition best practices, including discharge planning, medication management, social determinant screening, and age-friendly practices.
- Continue partnership between the Trager Institute and the Area Agency on Aging
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
