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.
What you will do in this position:
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
More about this position:
Qualified candidates must possess:
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
Preferred candidates will also possess the following 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
Benefits:
Paid sick leave, annual leave, birthday leave & federal holidays
100% of employee health insurance premiums paid by the agency
Supplemental health, dental, vision, and life insurance options for employees and family
APPLICATIONS FOR EMPLOYMENT: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. Application for open posted position must be submitted via online at the following website: https://hacanet.applicantpro.com/ However, 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