Community Health Worker (VDHRN074)

Virginia Information Technologies Agency•Roanoke, VA

20h•Onsite

About The Position

Consider joining the Virginia Department of Health as we foster healthy and resilient communities. This is your opportunity to serve the public in the Population Health Program in the position of Community Health Worker at the Roanoke City/Alleghany Health District. Position will be based in Roanoke City. The Community Health Worker (CHW) is an integral member of the health district public health team, providing support to individuals and families both in clinic settings and within the community. The CHW works to connect community members to essential resources and services, with the goal of improving overall health and enhancing quality of life. Serving as a liaison between the community and healthcare services, the CHW focuses on providing culturally sensitive care and communication, especially to priority populations. Key responsibilities include facilitating health improvement initiatives, health promotion and education, and the development and support of health programs. The CHW plays a critical role in disease prevention activities, capacity building, and service coordination. They are also involved in program evaluation to assess effectiveness and community impact. The CHW collaborates with community networks and partners to identify, prioritize, and implement public health initiatives that have the greatest potential for positive impact. This position requires strong community engagement skills, the ability to navigate and coordinate services, and a commitment to fostering health equity and improving the overall well-being of the population. This CHW position supports Maternal and Child Health (MCH) initiatives across the Roanoke City and Alleghany Health Districts, with a focus on improving outcomes for pregnant individuals, postpartum families, and infants. The CHW will play a key role in: Supporting individuals during pregnancy and the postpartum period, including connecting clients to prenatal and postpartum care Promoting safe sleep practices and car seat safety through education and community-based classes Addressing social determinants of health such as transportation, housing, food access, and healthcare navigation Conducting outreach and building relationships in WIC and clinic settings as well as the broader community Supporting community initiatives related to adolescent health, reproductive health, and family well-being This role requires a high level of community engagement, flexibility, and relationship-building. The CHW will meet clients where they are, provide culturally responsive support, and serve as a trusted liaison between families and the healthcare and social service systems. The ideal candidate is passionate about working with families, comfortable working independently in the community, and committed to advancing health equity across diverse populations.

Requirements

Knowledge of Social Determinants of Health: Knowledge of the various social, economic, and environmental factors that influence individual and community health, including disparities in access to resources and services.
Knowledge of Mental/Behavioral Health: Familiarity with the impact of mental and behavioral health on physical health outcomes, including an understanding of common mental health issues and how they intersect with physical health needs.
Knowledge of Public Health Principles: Basic knowledge of public health practices, epidemiology, disease prevention, health promotion, and social service systems, including the roles of government agencies and community organizations in addressing health needs.
Community Experience: Experience working with priority or underserved communities, with an understanding of relevant unique challenges and resources.
Cultural Competency: Ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations, recognizing and respecting cultural norms, practices, and values within the community.
Effective Communication Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and concisely in both written and verbal formats using plain language that is accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds. This includes the ability to adapt communication styles to meet the needs of different communities served.
Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrated ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with colleagues, community members, and stakeholders. Strong team collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary environment.
Technology Proficiency: Ability to operate a personal computer and use internet-based tools and applications for data entry, communication, and research.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in a second language (especially relevant languages in the community served) is highly preferred to effectively communicate with a broader population.
Previous experience in a public health or community-based agency environment, with familiarity in coordinating services and supporting public health initiatives.
Community Health Worker (CHW) certification, or the ability to obtain one after hire.

Responsibilities

Facilitating health improvement initiatives
Health promotion and education
Development and support of health programs
Disease prevention activities
Capacity building
Service coordination
Program evaluation to assess effectiveness and community impact
Collaborating with community networks and partners to identify, prioritize, and implement public health initiatives
Supporting individuals during pregnancy and the postpartum period, including connecting clients to prenatal and postpartum care
Promoting safe sleep practices and car seat safety through education and community-based classes
Addressing social determinants of health such as transportation, housing, food access, and healthcare navigation
Conducting outreach and building relationships in WIC and clinic settings as well as the broader community
Supporting community initiatives related to adolescent health, reproductive health, and family well-being