Community Health Worker Apprentice

About the Role

The Community Health Worker Apprentice is a key role focused on developing the essential skills needed to serve as a liaison between patients, the healthcare system, and community-based organizations. Working under the mentorship and guidance of an experienced CHW preceptor, the apprentice will gain hands-on experience and training across a variety of functions aimed at improving health outcomes for diverse and underserved populations. This role will help build strong community partnerships, promote health equity, and support access to vital health and community services.

• The role involves working from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. between January 11 - February 8, 2027.
• Approximately 20% local travel within Northeast Ohio is required.
• Candidates must reside in Northeast Ohio.
• You will attend Tri-C and work concurrently.
• Classes are held on Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• The class format is hybrid (Zoom + Metro Campus onsite labs).

Beginning February 9, the hours are:

• Monday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Tuesday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Wednesday: 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
• Thursday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Friday: Off

Onsite labs:

• May 20: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• June 8: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Placement Locations:

• Lorain
• Fairview
• Cleveland Clinic El Centro Outpatient Center - OB/GYN
• Mentor

Key Responsibilities

• Learn and demonstrate core functions such as patient care, community outreach, and connecting patients with essential resources.
• Work closely with patients and community organizations, creating an environment of trust and open communication.
• Develop relationships that improve healthcare access and outcomes.
• Gain an understanding of the cultural dynamics of the communities served.
• Support and help ensure that community healthcare services are accessible, appropriate, and respectful of the community’s needs.
• Help patients navigate the healthcare system and ensure they receive the support they need.
• Gain experience providing informal counseling and advocacy.
• Participate in outreach efforts to educate the community on health matters and promote self-sufficiency, improving the overall health knowledge of individuals and the community.
• Develop an understanding of the importance of partnerships between medical providers, community organizations, and CHWs to create a comprehensive support system for patients.
• Serve as an intermediary between these groups to enhance coordination and care delivery.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Knowledge and expertise gained through personal identity, culture or background to support the needs of patients and families.
• Effective time management practices (able to organize time, prioritize projects efficiently and effectively).
• De-escalation skills.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Skills in managing change and conflict.
• Ability to develop trust and effective work relationships with staff members, individuals, families, and external and internal professionals.
• Strong information gathering/interviewing techniques.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with special emphasis on oral and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual in Spanish
• Community service experience
• Past work experience in a medical office setting
• Informal community health worker experience
• Epic experience
• Healthcare experience

Physical Requirements

• May need to move around intermittently during the day, including sitting, standing, stooping, bending, and ambulating.
• May need to remain still for extended periods, including sitting and standing.
• Evening and weekend work may be required.
• May need to lift boxes or carry objects.
• Possess dexterity to operate a PC and other office equipment.

Personal Protective Equipment

• Follow Standard Precautions using personal protective equipment as required.

Compensation

• The apprenticeship flat rate is $18.50 per hour.