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Community Health Worker

Job Summary

Established in 1937, the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA) is a national leader in providing safe, healthy and affordable housing options for the Austin community. HACA’s mission is to cultivate sustainable affordable housing communities and partnerships that inspire self-reliance, growth and optimism.

The Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA) is looking for a dedicated and compassionate Community Health Educator to join our Bringing Health Home team and make a significant impact on the health and well-being of our HACA (Housing Authority of the City of Austin) communities. This role focuses on addressing health disparities and social determinants of health through education, support, and community engagement.

Employment Type:

Full Time

Division:

Community Development

Employer:

Housing Authority of The City of Austin

Essential Duties and responsibilities

  • Health Education and Support
    • Provide culturally appropriate health education and support to HACA community members experiencing health disparities.
    • Deliver social determinants of health (SDoH) screenings to identify and address underlying chronic disease risk factors.
    • Conduct community engagement activities, including vaccination awareness programs and health curricula implementation.
    • Coordinate social services and provide referrals to help HACA communities build resiliency.
  • Community Engagement and Relationship Building
    • Develop strong relationships with residents and empower them and their families to actively participate in their care management.
    • Gain intimate knowledge of the community and residents’ lived experiences to help them navigate and access appropriate community and health-related services.
    • Host engagement activities on HACA property to build community awareness and promote education related to healthy lifestyles health information and updates on chronic disease management, vaccine awareness, and available social services.
  • Program Implementation and Tracking
    • Support the development, implementation, and maintenance of online tracking systems for social service usage, resident referrals, activities, and engagements.
  • Cultural Competence and Liaison Role
    • Serve as a culturally competent liaison between residents and healthcare systems, leveraging localized knowledge and lived experience to bridge historical gaps.
    • Empower patients and/or their families to be engaged and active participants in their care management.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Two (2) years’ experience working within a community health setting in a healthcare role or a community-based service agency as a Community Health Worker (CHW), health educator, community outreach working or community organizer.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish language skills.
  • Knowledge of community support resources related to social services, particularly health care organizations. Knowledge of principles of culture, cultural competency and cultural humility.
  • Ability to perceive and react sensitively to the needs of others and maintain strict confidentiality of required HIPAA and other Texas privacy laws.
  • Ability to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, including public housing residents and representatives from local agencies and organizations which provide services to public housing residents without bias.
  • Valid Texas Driver’s License with no outstanding driving violations and access to a personal vehicle.

Required Education

  • High School diploma or GED, AND one (1) year of experience working within a community health setting in a healthcare role or a community-based service agency role.
  • Certified Community Health Worker, OR
  • Completion of an approved 160-hour competency-based Community Worker training program certified by DSHS within the first six months of hire.
  • Experience in community health education or social services.
  • Strong understanding of social determinants of health and health disparities.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse populations.

How to Apply

To apply, follow the instructions in the link below.

This is a grant-funded position with funding for year one with subsequent renewals based on grant performance up to and not to exceed two years. We will accept applications at the Housing Authority of the City of Austin, 1124 S. IH-35, Austin, Texas 78704. No applications will be accepted after the noted closing dates on the job announcement. We encourage you to visit our website often to view and apply for vacant positions with the Housing Authority of the City of Austin or sign up for job alerts at our career site. The HACA is a drug-free workplace. A Criminal Background Check including a sex offender registry check. A Driving Record, Texas Driver’s License, and a Physical/Drug Screening will be required upon offer of employment. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Apply now