Trusted Messenger Specialist

CDC Foundation•Utah, UT

10d•Hybrid

About The Position

The CDC Foundation is seeking a Trusted Messenger Specialist who will lead strategic efforts to identify, map, and engage trusted community voices across Utah. This role focuses on strengthening public health outreach by connecting with individuals and organizations that communities rely on for credible information, ensuring effective communication across diverse populations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Sociology, Communications, Community Development, Anthropology, or a related field required
Minimum 3 years of experience in community engagement, outreach, organizing, or public health-related work
Experience working with state or local health departments, nonprofits, or grassroots organizations
Demonstrated experience in partnership development, stakeholder engagement, and community relationship management
Familiarity with Utah’s cultural, geographic, and community landscape, including rural, urban, and diverse populations
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and rapport across diverse groups
Demonstrated cultural competency and ability to work effectively in varied community settings
Strategic thinker with the ability to identify networks of influence and community connectors
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience summarizing data and presenting findings
Ability to analyze and synthesize both qualitative and quantitative information into actionable insights
Experience using mapping tools, databases, or community asset frameworks (e.g., Asset-Based Community Development - ABCD)
Requires the operation of a motor vehicle as a component of the job responsibilities and duties.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license in their state of residence.
Must self-report motor vehicle violations/convictions.
Must provide proof of acceptable insurance coverage with mandatory minimum coverages as set forth within the Driver Safety Motor Vehicle policy.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree (MPH, MSW, or related field) preferred

Responsibilities

Conduct deep-dive research to identify formal and informal nodes of influence, including faith leaders, grassroots organizers, local business owners, and digital community moderators.
Coordinate with Local Health Department leaders to proactively identify and vet potential community partners that can bridge gaps between our organization and populations.
Create a comprehensive database that maps and organizes local, regional, and sector-specific trusted messengers. This includes a dynamic, searchable database of messengers by expertise, audience, geography, and influence for tailored outreach.
Conduct an audit of existing community connections across local health departments, documenting and formalizing these relationships within the mapping framework to ensure accurate tracking and alignment.
Identify gaps where trusted messengers are not yet established and initiate targeted outreach only when needed, ensuring all partners both new and existing are appropriately connected with their respective local health departments.
Conduct interviews, listening sessions, and focus groups to validate trusted sources of information within communities.