Top 10 Community Health Worker Positions to Get Started in 2025

Ready to make a real difference in your community and land a rewarding job? Community Health Worker positions are booming, and we’re here to help you find the perfect fit. Whether you’re passionate about health education or connecting people with vital resources, this list has something for you.

We’ll explore ten awesome Community Health Worker roles to kickstart your career in 2025, including:

• Health Promoters
• Community Health Representatives
• Outreach Specialists
• Patient Navigators
• Community Health Educators
• And many more.

Speaking of community, Illinois Community Health Workers Association (ILCHWA) is a fantastic resource for CHWs in Illinois. We offer support, training, and advocacy for folks passionate about community health. Check us out.

1. Health Promoter

Want to empower folks to take charge of their well-being? As a Health Promoter, you’ll rock the role of educator and advocate, guiding individuals and communities toward healthier lifestyles. Think of it as being a health coach who provides support, information, and resources to help people make informed decisions about their health.

• What’s the gig? You might find yourself developing health education programs, leading workshops, or even organizing community events. You could be working with schools, clinics, or non-profit organizations. The goal? To spread awareness about important health topics like nutrition, physical activity, and disease prevention.
• Why it rocks: You’re not just patching up problems; you’re preventing them. You’ll be a pillar of support for your community, helping people thrive. Plus, every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a real difference.
• Skills you’ll need: Besides a passion for health and wellness, you’ll need top-notch communication and interpersonal skills. Being organized and creative also helps, as you’ll often be designing and implementing programs. A background in health education or a related field is usually required.

Wanna stand out? Consider snagging a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) credential. It shows you’re serious about your skills and can boost your career prospects.

2. Community Health Representatives

Want to bridge the gap between healthcare and the folks who need it most? As a Community Health Representative (CHR), you’ll be a trusted liaison, connecting individuals and families with essential health services and resources. Think of it as being a health navigator, guiding people through the often-complex world of healthcare.

• What’s the gig? You could be working in a variety of settings, from tribal communities to urban clinics. You’ll be building relationships, conducting home visits, and providing education on health issues. You might help people enroll in health insurance programs, schedule appointments, or find transportation to medical facilities.
• Why it rocks: You’ll be a beacon of hope for those who may face barriers to accessing care. You’ll witness firsthand the positive impact you have on people’s lives. You’ll also gain a deep understanding of the unique health challenges faced by different communities.
• Skills you’ll need: Besides a deep sense of empathy and cultural sensitivity, you’ll need excellent communication and problem-solving skills. Being resourceful and adaptable is key, as you’ll often be working independently and navigating diverse situations.

Wanna stand out? Consider getting certified as a Community Health Worker. It demonstrates your commitment to the profession and can open doors to new opportunities.

3. Outreach Specialist

Love connecting with people and spreading the word about important causes? As an Outreach Specialist, you’ll be a community champion, raising awareness about health issues and connecting people with vital programs and services. Think of it as being a health ambassador, engaging with diverse populations, and promoting well-being.

• What’s the gig? You might be organizing health fairs, attending community events, or even going door-to-door to share information. You’ll be building partnerships with local organizations, developing outreach materials, and tracking your progress. You could be working with a non-profit, government agency, or healthcare provider.
• Why it rocks: You’ll be at the forefront of community health initiatives, making a tangible difference in people’s lives. You’ll have the chance to flex your creativity in designing engaging outreach campaigns. And you’ll build a strong network of community partners.
• Skills you’ll need: Besides being outgoing and personable, you’ll need strong communication and presentation skills. Being organized and results-oriented is also important, as you’ll be managing outreach efforts and tracking your impact.

Wanna stand out? Consider developing expertise in a specific health area, like maternal health or substance abuse prevention. This will make you a valuable asset to organizations focused on those issues.

4. Patient Navigator

Do you have a knack for guiding people through challenging situations? As a Patient Navigator, you’ll be a compassionate guide, helping patients and their families navigate the healthcare system. Think of it as being a health Sherpa, leading people through the sometimes-confusing journey of medical care.

• What’s the gig? You could be working in a hospital, clinic, or community health center. You’ll be assessing patient needs, providing education and support, and coordinating care. You might help patients schedule appointments, understand their treatment options, or access financial assistance.
• Why it rocks: You’ll be a source of comfort and support for patients during difficult times. You’ll play a crucial role in improving health outcomes by ensuring patients receive timely and appropriate care. And you’ll build strong relationships with patients and healthcare providers.
• Skills you’ll need: Besides being empathetic and patient, you’ll need excellent communication and problem-solving skills. Being organized and detail-oriented is essential, as you’ll be managing patient information and coordinating care.

5. Certified Application Counselor

Do you have a knack for helping people navigate paperwork and understand complex information? As a Certified Application Counselor, you’ll be a guide through the healthcare maze, assisting individuals and families in enrolling in health insurance programs. Think of it as being a health insurance guru, demystifying the enrollment process, and ensuring people get the coverage they need.

• What’s the gig? You could be working for a non-profit organization, government agency, or healthcare provider. You’ll be conducting eligibility screenings, helping people complete applications, and providing education about different health insurance options. You’ll be a key player in ensuring people have access to affordable healthcare.
• Why it rocks: You’ll be empowering people to take control of their health by helping them secure health insurance. You’ll be a trusted resource for those who may find the enrollment process daunting. And you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you’re making a real difference in people’s lives.
• Skills you’ll need: Besides being patient and detail-oriented, you’ll need excellent communication and interpersonal skills. A strong understanding of health insurance programs and regulations is essential.

Pro Tip: Stay updated on the latest healthcare reform developments and policy changes to provide the most accurate and helpful guidance

6. Community Health Educator

Passionate about health education and community empowerment? As a Community Health Educator, you’ll be a knowledge sharer and change-maker, designing and delivering educational programs that promote health and well-being. Think of it as being a health professor for your community, inspiring and motivating people to make healthier choices.

• What’s the gig? You could be working in schools, community centers, or healthcare facilities. You’ll be developing curricula, leading workshops, and creating engaging educational materials. You might address topics like nutrition, physical activity, disease prevention, or mental health.
• Why it rocks: You’ll be planting the seeds of health literacy, empowering individuals and communities to take charge of their well-being. You’ll have the opportunity to use your creativity to develop innovative and impactful programs. And you’ll witness firsthand the positive changes you inspire.
• Skills you’ll need: Besides being a strong communicator and presenter, you’ll need excellent organizational and teaching skills. A deep understanding of health education principles and learning methodologies is crucial.

Did you know? Community Health Educators often collaborate with other health professionals and community organizations to maximize their impact.

7. Community Outreach Coordinator

Do you have a knack for bringing people together and building strong community connections? As a Community Outreach Coordinator, you’ll be a bridge builder and networker, developing partnerships and coordinating outreach efforts to promote health and wellness. Think of it as being a community connector, weaving together a tapestry of resources and support.

• What’s the gig? You could be working for a non-profit organization, government agency, or healthcare provider. You’ll be organizing community events, developing outreach strategies, and collaborating with local partners. You’ll be the glue that holds community health initiatives together.
• Why it rocks: You’ll be at the heart of community health action, fostering collaboration and creating positive change. You’ll have the opportunity to build relationships with diverse stakeholders and make a real difference in the lives of others.
• Skills you’ll need: Besides being outgoing and personable, you’ll need strong communication and organizational skills. A deep understanding of community dynamics and the ability to build consensus are essential.

Looking for inspiration? Check out the work of successful Community Outreach Coordinators in your area to see how they’re making a difference.

8. Family Resource Coordinator

Do you have a passion for supporting families and helping them thrive? As a Family Resource Coordinator, you’ll be a pillar of strength and guidance, connecting families with the resources and support they need to navigate life’s challenges. Think of it as being a family advocate, empowering families to achieve their goals and build a brighter future.

What’s the gig? You could be working in schools, community centers, or social service agencies. You’ll be assessing family needs, providing information and referrals, and coordinating services. You might help families access healthcare, childcare, housing assistance, or educational programs.

Why it rocks: You’ll be a source of hope and support for families facing difficult circumstances. You’ll play a crucial role in strengthening families and building stronger communities. And you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you’re making a real difference in the lives of children and their families.

Skills you’ll need: Besides being empathetic and compassionate, you’ll need excellent communication and problem-solving skills. A deep understanding of family dynamics and community resources is essential.

Want to make a bigger impact? Consider specializing in a particular area of family support, such as early childhood development or parenting education.

9. Peer Support Specialist

Have you overcome personal challenges and want to use your experience to help others? As a Peer Support Specialist, you’ll be a beacon of hope and understanding, providing support and guidance to individuals facing similar struggles. Think of it as being a recovery mentor, sharing your lived experience to inspire hope and empower others on their journey to wellness.

• What’s the gig? You could be working in mental health centers, substance abuse treatment facilities, or community-based organizations. You’ll be providing emotional support, sharing your recovery story, and helping people develop coping skills. You’ll be a living example that recovery is possible.
• Why it rocks: You’ll be making a profound difference in the lives of others by offering support and understanding that comes from lived experience. You’ll be a source of inspiration and hope for those who may feel isolated or discouraged. And you’ll continue your own recovery journey by helping others.
• Skills you’ll need: Besides having a strong commitment to recovery, you’ll need excellent communication and active listening skills. Empathy, compassion, and the ability to build trust are essential.

Remember: Your personal experience is your greatest asset as a Peer Support Specialist.

10. Promotor(a) de Salud

Are you passionate about promoting health and wellness in the Latinx community? As a Promotor(a) de Salud (Community Health Worker), you’ll be a trusted advocate and educator, bridging cultural gaps and empowering individuals and families to take charge of their health. Think of it as being a cultural health navigator, guiding people through the healthcare system and promoting healthy lifestyles within their cultural context.

• What’s the gig? You could be working in community health centers, non-profit organizations, or social service agencies. You’ll be conducting outreach, providing health education, and connecting people with essential resources. You’ll be a cultural bridge between the healthcare system and the Latinx community.
• Why it rocks: You’ll be making a significant impact on the health and well-being of the Latinx community. You’ll be a trusted source of information and support, helping people navigate cultural and linguistic barriers. And you’ll have the opportunity to promote culturally relevant health practices.
• Skills you’ll need: Besides being fluent in Spanish and possessing cultural sensitivity, you’ll need excellent communication and interpersonal skills. A deep understanding of the health challenges faced by the Latinx community is crucial.

Something to consider: Many Promotores(as) de Salud have personal experience with the health issues they address, making them even more effective in their roles.

Ready to Jumpstart Your Community Health Career?

These are the ten awesome Community Health Worker positions ready for the taking. Whether you’re a natural-born leader, a compassionate listener, or a skilled communicator, there’s a role out there with your name on it.

Key takeaways

• Diverse opportunities: From health promotion to patient navigation, there’s a CHW role to match your passion.
• Make a real difference: Help your community thrive and improve health outcomes.
• Boost your skills: Develop valuable skills in communication, education, and advocacy.

Want to connect with other passionate CHWs in Illinois? Check out the Illinois Community Health Workers Association (ILCHWA). We offer training, resources, and a supportive network to help you succeed in your community health career.