Community Health Worker

East Central District Health Department/Good Neighbor Community Health Center • Columbus, NE

1d

About The Position

East Central District Health Department (ECDHD) is seeking compassionate, motivated, community-minded individuals to serve as Community Health Workers (CHWs). CHWs act as a bridge between individuals, healthcare providers, and community resources, working directly with individuals and families to identify barriers to health and well-being, connect them with resources, and support them as they navigate healthcare and community services. The role helps improve access to care, promote health education and health literacy, and support informed health decisions.

CHWs work with hospitals, clinics, community organizations, and individuals throughout the communities served by ECDHD. Work locations may include hospitals, clinics, ECDHD offices, community organizations, and other assigned locations; some positions may be based directly within a hospital or clinic. The role includes community-based work and travel throughout assigned areas. Regular hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with a one-hour lunch break. Occasional evening and weekend hours may be required for events, trainings, meetings, or program needs. Mileage reimbursement is provided for eligible work-related travel under ECDHD policies. Employees may occasionally assist with public health needs or emergency response activities.

ECDHD provides training and ongoing learning opportunities. As training is completed and program needs evolve, responsibilities may expand to include new services, health education topics, and specialized areas of community health.

Requirements

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Genuine interest in helping individuals and families access services and improve their well-being.
• Ability to build relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong problem-solving, organization, and follow-up skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Comfort communicating with healthcare providers, community organizations, and the public.
• Basic computer skills and willingness to learn new programs and documentation systems.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• Reliable transportation and willingness to travel throughout assigned areas.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a plus.
• Previous experience in healthcare, social services, community outreach, customer service, or resource navigation is beneficial but not required.

Responsibilities

• Build trusting relationships with individuals and families in the community.
• Identify barriers affecting health and access to services, including food, housing, transportation, insurance, and healthcare.
• Connect individuals with healthcare providers, community organizations, and available resources.
• Assist individuals with navigating programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, SNAP, WIC, and other assistance programs.
• Support health literacy by helping individuals understand health information, healthcare instructions, and available services.
• Provide health education and prevention information through clear, understandable, and culturally appropriate communication.
• Assist with referrals, resource applications, appointment coordination, and follow-up when appropriate.
• Work with hospitals, clinics, and community partners to support individuals and improve access to care.
• Participate in community outreach events, health fairs, coalition activities, and public health initiatives.
• Support ECDHD programs, including WIC, immunizations, maternal health, chronic disease education, and other community health programs.
• Maintain accurate documentation of client interactions, referrals, and follow-up activities.
• Maintain confidentiality and follow applicable agency and partner policies.
• Participate in required training and ongoing professional development.
• Travel throughout assigned areas and perform community-based work.
• Occasionally assist with public health needs or emergency response activities.

Benefits

• Mileage reimbursement is provided for eligible work-related travel in accordance with ECDHD policies.
• Training and ongoing learning opportunities are provided.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed