Community Health Worker (CHW)

About DCHD:

Mission: To protect and promote healthier lifestyles through prevention and education.

As a certified health department, the Douglas County Health Department is responsible for several programs as well as many other public health services. Programs are grouped into divisions relating to either nursing, environmental health or health education. All programs have an educational component. The goal of this department is to increase the awareness and number of persons reached in this educational process.

Full-Time Benefits:

• 13-15 Paid Holidays


• Vacation


• 3 days of Personal Time


• Accrual of 1 sick day per month (rollover)


• Employer paid employee health insurance premium


• Dental/Vision


• Life Insurance


• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) Participation


• Tuition Assistance and Loan Repayment


• Flexible Schedules

Part-Time Benefits:

• Vacation


• Flexible Schedules


• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) Participation

Position: Community Health Worker

Status: Part-Time or Full-Time

Working hours: Flexible

Salary: Nonexempt

Work Location: Hybrid

Job Summary:

We are seeking a motivated and community-focused Community Health Worker (CHW) to support outreach, education, and connection to services for individuals and families in our community. This position plays a key role in improving access to care, promoting health behaviors, and addressing social determinants of health.

This position is grant-funded, with current funding supporting a part-time role. However, we are actively pursuing additional funding opportunities and welcome applicants interested in either part-time or full-time employment, depending on funding availability and organizational needs.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Help support, engage, and educate prioritized population through education programs and initiatives.


• Assist in event planning and coordination.


• Support enrollment in benefit programs.


• Maintain accurate documentation and reporting related to grant requirements.


• Collaborate with various DCHD programs as needed.


• Maintain a flexible schedule, working both in-office and remotely as well as during community events.


• Other duties as assigned as grant funding increases.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Regular predictable attendance is required.


• Strong communication skills including public speaking and active listening.


• Respect and understanding for diverse cultural population.


• Strong time management and organization skills.


• Ability to build rapport with other professionals and agencies.


• Critical problem-solving skills.


• Ability to work a hybrid schedule, in the office and from home as well as events while maintaining appropriate communication with Manager.


• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.


• Reliable internet connection and cell phone access.


• Bilingual a plus.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.


• Community Health Worker (CHW) certification or willingness to obtain.


• Experience in public health, social services, or a related field preferred.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disability to perform the essential functions.

• DCHD is a smoke free and drug-free workplace in compliance with federal guidelines.


• This position requires frequent sitting and/or standing.


• Loading company vehicle with supplies needed for community events, lifting up to 35 lbs.


• Some events including fairs and parades may be held outside some working in the elements may be required.

The Douglas County Health Department is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We embrace and encourage our employees' differences in age, color, disability, ethnicity, family or marital status, gender identity or expression, language, national origin, physical and mental ability, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, veteran status, and other characteristics that make our employees unique.

Our employment practices are rooted in our dedication to equal opportunity for all individuals. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in employment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

All employment decisions at the Douglas County Health Department are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to the above-listed characteristics. We provide a work environment free of harassment and retaliation and ensure compliance with all applicable laws that protect the rights of applicants and employees. Our policies reflect and affirm the department's commitment to the principles of fair employment and the elimination of all discriminatory practices.

If you require assistance or accommodation during the application process due to a disability, please contact the Human Resources Department at 217-253-4137 X 1207.