Community Health Worker Apprentice, Mentor

About the Role

The Community Health Worker Apprentice is a key role focused on developing essential skills to serve as a liaison between patients, the healthcare system, and community-based organizations. Working under mentorship and guidance, the apprentice will gain hands-on experience and training to improve health outcomes for diverse and underserved populations. This role aims to build strong community partnerships, promote health equity, and support access to vital health and community services.

Work Schedule & Location

• Initial Phase (January 11 - February 8, 2027):
• Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Attendance: Tri-C concurrently with work. Classes are hybrid (Zoom + Metro Campus onsite labs) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Location: Virtual via Zoom and Tri-C Metro Campus for onsite labs.
• Post Initial Phase (Beginning February 9):
• 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
• Additional Onsite Labs:
• May 20: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• June 8: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Apprenticeship Location: Langston Hughes
• Placement Locations:
• Lorain
• Fairview
• Cleveland Clinic El Centro Outpatient Center - OB/GYN
• Mentor
• Travel: Approximately 20% local travel within Northeast Ohio.
• Residency Requirement: Candidates must reside in Northeast Ohio.

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

• Hourly Rate: $18.50 per hour.
• Skills:
• Effective time management practices (able to organize time, prioritize projects efficiently and effectively).
• De-escalation skills.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Managing change and conflict.
• Information gathering/interviewing techniques.
• Oral and written communication skills.
• Tools:
• Ability to operate a PC and other office equipment.
• Personal Protective Equipment: Follow Standard Precautions using personal protective equipment as required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Knowledge and expertise gained through personal identity, culture or background to support the needs of patients and families.
• Ability to develop trust and effective work relationships with staff members, individuals, families, and external and internal professionals.
• Bilingual in Spanish (preferred).
• Community service experience (preferred).
• Past work experience in a medical office setting (preferred).
• Informal community health worker experience (preferred).
• Epic experience (preferred).
• Healthcare experience (preferred).

Physical Requirements

• May need to move around intermittently, 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.