STD/HIV Community Health Worker

Are you passionate about serving your community and interested in finding a career where you can truly make a difference? The Berrien County Health Department has a mission to prevent disease, protect health, and promote an optimal quality of life for all. Join us in living this mission to create a better Berrien County for all who live, work, and play in our community. If you’re looking to make a positive impact, open new doors for your career, and join an innovative team, we’re looking for you!

Job Title: STD/HIV Community Health Worker

Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week
Starting Salary Range: $40,594 - $45,659

Under general direction, the Community Health Worker will identify and locate individuals with STD/HIV diagnoses in order to support their needs in obtaining or sustaining health care treatment. Supports Sexually Transmitted Disease and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (STD/HIV)-positive individuals at risk of non-adherence navigate the healthcare system and achieve positive health outcomes. Maintains a presence in the community through outreach and health education, community events, and through strong professional partnerships with area organizations serving overlapping clients.

TYPICAL DUTIES:

1. Plans, coordinates, and implements specific interventions aimed at finding and re-engaging STD/HIV-positive clients lost to care.

2. Works with individuals newly diagnosed with STDs and/or HIV, those at-risk, and those lost individuals who are lost to care to assist them in navigating the health care system to obtain and maintain health care treatment, access available resources (through Ryan White Care Act Program or other community resources) and provide support required to be successful with their medical care.

3. Collaborates with other Berrien County Health Department Sexual Health team members, Clinical & Community Health Services Manager, and local infectious disease medical personnel to provide case management/care coordination and system navigation through informal counseling, education, social/peer support, and tracking of the client’s well-being and progress.

4. Responsible for establishing trusting relationships with community members, clients and their families from diverse populations while providing general support and encouragement.

5. Conducts interviews and communicates effectively with clients using basic motivational interviewing and goal setting via phone calls, home visits and visits to other settings where clients can be found.

6. Responsible for client interactions and education involving health issues such as HIV/AIDS, substance abuse, chronic disease, behavioral health, child-rearing, parenting or other health concerns. Conducts health promotion and prevention education that is sensitive to the cultural and linguistic needs of participants and/or community.

7. Prepares and maintains appropriate paperwork and records. Complete documentation and data entry needed for medical records and grant funding.

8. Acts as client and community advocate; advises clients on available and appropriate medical and social services; advocates for the needs and perspectives of the communities.

9. May provide program outreach such as home visiting activities, participate in individual and community assessments, community outreach and health screening events, distribution of flyers and brochures, and deliver presentation at local agencies and community events.

10. Demonstrates sensitivity and understanding of diverse socioeconomic, cultural, ethnic and health issues.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Education: High school diploma with college experience preferred. Preference to applicants with experience in a health related field preferably in public health dealing with high risk individuals.

Training provided upon hire:

HIV Test Counselor Certification Training (Modules I, II, III); STD treatment Guidelines; and Early Intervention Services for People Living with HIV

Experience: None.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Possession of a vehicle operator’s license.

In times of a public health emergency, may be required to report for specialized assigned duties inside or outside of Berrien County.

Non-traditional work hours may be required on occasion.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Certification as a Community Health Worker (CHW).

2. HIV Antibody Pre/Post Test Counselor certification and Phlebotomy training and the skills to perform both effectively, or willingness to learn.

3. Knowledge of HIV/STDs, including infected and affected populations, high-risk groups, and comfort with working with these populations and groups.

4. Knowledge of HIV/STD community resources, including existing social and behavioral health resources and referral agencies.

5. Excellent communication skills (verbal, written, presentation, interpersonal) to deliver information and gain cooperation/trust from clients and community members.

6. Knowledge of areas and activities where those who may be high-risk for HIV infection are to be found. Ability to effectively target those areas for outreach activities.

7. Ability to efficiently manage time and multiple responsibilities; ability to document services provided as recommended utilizing best practices

8. Computer proficiency in windows-based programs and Microsoft Office Suite.

9. Demonstrated knowledge of client confidentially and client rights according to Health

Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40,594.00 - $45,659.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,594 - $45,659