The Douglas County Health Department is seeking a Community Health Educator.

Primary Function

Under the direction of the Supervisor, Community Health Education, or designee the incumbent plans, implements and evaluates health promotion activities; provides health training and health information; and collaborates with other organizations to improve the health status of the community.

Essential Functions

Respond to requests from the community for health education information. Refer requests outside area of expertise to related agencies that may better provide requested information.
Identify and evaluate community health education needs. Determine target areas and implement strategies for health promotion/services.
Gather materials, information, brochures, etc., relating to topic of presentation.   Review and evaluate material for accuracy and cultural sensitivity factors.
Conduct lectures, presentations and workshops as assigned in order to distribute health information, increase community awareness of health issues, and facilitate behavioral change for a healthier lifestyle.
As directed by supervisor, prepare reports, press releases, public service announcements, newsletters, newspaper releases, etc., for the distribution of information on community health education services and programs.
To increase program effectiveness and best utilize resources, work in conjunction with area community agencies and groups, public agencies, schools, health care, and volunteer organizations, etc. in the development of health education strategies to resolve problems in all aspects of various health environments, including coordination of available resources and referral of information requests to the respective service organizations.
Develop a working knowledge of other Health Department services and programs and provide information to the public as appropriate.
With the assistance of the Supervisor, Community Health Education, Community Health Educator II, or designee, develop an evaluation plan for each program, which includes developing surveys and tracking statistical data. Make appropriate changes to programs based on surveys and evaluations.
Assist in the development of grant proposals, work plans, goals and objectives related to specific projects and linked to state and national health goals.
Coordinate with other community agencies, such as educational institutions, employers, and area hospitals, to develop grant programs or health education programs.
Represent the Health Department by serving on various committees, coalitions and community alliances; distributing information at local health fairs, etc.
Perform computer input and retrieval functions utilizing a variety of hardware and software programs.
Prepare and maintain various records, reports, correspondence and other departmental documents, including mileage reports, timesheets, inspection reports and documentation.
Attend various training courses, seminars and conferences to maintain knowledge of current trends and developments in job-related skills and techniques.

Other Duties and Responsibilities

Perform receptionist and related clerical duties in absence of clerical staff.
Operate standard office equipment in the performance of job duties, i.e. fax machine, copier, personal computer, calculator, etc.
Serve on inter-departmental or community committees, as directed.
Collaborate internally and with community agencies regarding public health emergency preparedness, as assigned.
Respond to inquiries from the general public.
Participate in public health emergency response training and respond as directed in a public health emergency.
Perform other related duties as assigned.

Education and Work Experience and Other Requirements

Bachelor’s degree* in Health Education, Community Health Education, School Health Education, or a related field of study.
Must possess a valid driver’s license at the time of hire, and maintain it throughout the course of employment. Must possess own mode of transportation.
Applicants with internship or one year work experience in public health, community health, health promotion or related field preferred.
Experience/training in operating personal computers and in using word processing, database, statistical and graphics software desirable.
Directly related work experience preferred. 

*Approved work experience may be substituted for up to two years of college on a year-for-year basis.

View the full job description here.

Apply online here.