Community Health Worker
SOC 21-1094.00 · ESCO 2635 · OSCA 231931
Role snapshot
Overview
Community Health Workers are frontline public health professionals who serve as a vital link between health services and the community. They visit neighbourhoods, clinics, and homes to connect people with essential health services, run screening programmes, and educate families about nutrition and disease prevention. Building trust within underserved communities is central to their impact, as they empower individuals to make informed health decisions and navigate complex healthcare systems.
Improves health outcomes and access to care for underserved populations, reduces health disparities, and builds community capacity for health and wellness.
On the job
- Conduct outreach to community members to identify health needs and provide information on available resources
- Educate individuals and groups on various health topics, including chronic disease management, nutrition, and preventive care
- Assist clients in navigating healthcare systems, scheduling appointments, and accessing transportation or financial aid
- Provide culturally sensitive support and advocacy to help individuals overcome barriers to health
- Collect and report data on community health needs and programme effectiveness
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
GrowingJob growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.
Education & training
High school diploma or GED with specialized training or certification, or an associate's degree in community health, social work, or a related field.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Community Health Worker
Public Health
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
social · SEI
People who enjoy helping others, engaging with diverse communities, and assessing needs to provide effective support tend to thrive in this role. It combines a strong social orientation with practical, hands-on outreach and an investigative approach to problem-solving.
Personality characteristics
Engaging
Comfortable initiating conversations and building rapport with diverse individuals and groups in the community.
Empathetic
Deeply understands and shares the feelings of others, fostering trust and providing compassionate support.
Reliable
Diligent in follow-up, managing cases, and ensuring clients receive the resources they need.
Culturally Adaptable
Open to learning about and respecting different cultures, beliefs, and practices to provide inclusive care.
Resilient
Maintains composure and effectiveness when faced with challenging client situations or community obstacles.
Best for
- Individuals passionate about health equity and community empowerment
- Those who thrive in dynamic, people-centric roles with a strong sense of purpose
- Professionals who enjoy problem-solving and connecting people to vital resources
Watch out for
- The role requires frequent travel within the community, often involving varied environments
- Occasional weekend work may be required for community events or outreach programmes
- Dealing with sensitive health issues and challenging social determinants of health can be emotionally demanding
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Community Health Worker — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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