Community Health Worker
Job Description Job Description Position Summary The Community Health Worker (CHW) is a vital member of the HATS team and serves as a bridge between vulnerable community members and essential health, social, and community resources. The CHW will provide direct outreach, advocacy, and support to individuals and families experiencing homelessness, housing instability, mental health challenges, complex medical needs, or other barriers to care. The CHW empowers clients to navigate systems, access services, build stability, and achieve improved health and wellness. This role requires compassion, professionalism, cultural humility, and a strong commitment to community-based advocacy. Key Responsibilities Member Support & Engagement Conduct outreach, engagement, and rapport building with members in community settings, shelters, encampments, homes, and clinics. Complete needs assessments, social determinants of health screenings, and care plans. Provide ongoing support in accessing healthcare, housing, mental health, social services, and community programs. Offer crisis support within scope, ensuring appropriate de-escalation and referrals. N avigation & Advocacy Assist members with scheduling appointments, completing applications, and navigating complex systems. Advocate for members’ needs with partner agencies, providers, and community organizations. Support members in developing goals, building life skills, and increasing self-sufficiency. Collaborate with ECM/CS providers, case managers, social workers, and clinical staff. Documentation & Compliance Complete all required documentation accurately and on time in agency systems and partner portals. Maintain confidentiality and meet HIPAA, state, and programmatic standards. Track progress notes, care plans, outreach logs, and follow-up activities. C ommunity Partner Collaboration Build strong relationships with local shelters, hospitals, clinics, behavioral health services, schools, and community agencies. Participate in case conferencing, team meetings, and collaborative outreach efforts. Represent HATS at community events, resource fairs, and partner meetings. Education & Health Promotion Provide culturally sensitive education on wellness, chronic disease prevention, mental health, recovery, and community resources. Facilitate or assist with group workshops, classes, and community outreach events. Required Certified Community Health Worker Certification and High school diploma or equivalent. Experience working with vulnerable populations, including homelessness, behavioral health, or high-needs individuals. Strong communication, active listening, and relationship-building skills. Ability to work in the field, including outreach in variable environments. Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and ability to travel within the county. Preferred CHW certification or related training. Experience with ECM or Community Supports programs. Knowledge of Monterey County community resources, housing programs, and health systems. Bilingual (Spanish/English) encouraged but not required. Core Competencies Cultural Humility & Sensitivity Advocacy & Problem Solving Professional Boundaries Trauma-Informed Care Documentation Accuracy Time Management Ethical Practice Empathy & Patience Work Environment Combination of office, fieldwork, client homes, encampments, and partner locations. Must be comfortable working with diverse populations and varying levels of need.
