Community Health Worker

TaskForce Prevention and Community Services • Chicago, IL

9d • $22 - $25 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Community Health Worker is a critical member of our sexual health and wellness team. This position supports HIV and STI prevention and treatment services by building strong relationships with community members, conducting HIV and STI testing, providing affirming counseling, supporting linkage to treatment and PrEP, and connecting participants to essential social supports. The role requires frequent outreach in dynamic, non-traditional settings, including entertainment venues, social gatherings, and community events.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED. Applicants without a GED may still apply if willing to complete one within an agreed timeframe.
• Phlebotomy training or experience.
• Vocational training, apprenticeships, or equivalent experience in a related field.
• Lived or professional experience supporting LGBTQ+ youth and young adults, particularly within Black and Brown communities.
• Familiarity with HIV and STI prevention, PrEP and PEP services, and social determinants of health.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including empathy, confidentiality, and cultural humility.
• Comfort discussing identity, sex, and sexual health topics respectfully.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Basic computer and mobile technology skills.

Nice To Haves

• Medical assistant training, certification, or experience.
• HIV testing and counseling certification.
• Community outreach, harm reduction, and peer-based care experience.
• Bilingual in Spanish or another language.

Responsibilities

• Conduct HIV and STI testing, education, and counseling in both onsite and offsite settings, including entertainment venues, community gatherings, social events, and other community-based locations.
• Perform phlebotomy and support clinical procedures, including proper patient identification and accurate sample labeling.
• Maintain a sterile workspace and adhere to safety protocols.
• Deliver affirming pre- and post-test counseling with informed consent, complete documentation, and privacy protections.
• Notify participants of test results and assist with timely linkage to HIV treatment, PrEP, and additional care services.
• Attend and support outreach efforts at nightlife, Ballroom, and other community-based events serving LGBTQ+ youth, building relationships and connecting participants to TaskForce programs and resources.
• Establish trust and rapport through culturally responsive engagement.
• Promote sexual health services and encourage community participation.
• Accurately document all encounters in compliance with confidentiality laws and agency protocols.
• Assist with quality assurance efforts, research participation, pre-screening participants, and audit support.
• Attend required staff meetings, supervision sessions, and trainings.
• Maintain necessary certifications and participate in ongoing development.
• Uphold and model TFPCS values of dignity, equity, collaboration, and community leadership.

Benefits

• health, dental, vision, retirement, and paid time off

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED