Bilingual Community Health Worker

Bilingual Community Health Worker

Position Title: Community Health Worker (CHW)
Organization: The Happier Life Project
Program: CHW
Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Compensation: $26.00 - $30.00 per hour
Work Schedule: Full-Time; hours may vary, including evenings and weekends as needed
Work Location: On-site (Lake Elsinore, CA) and field-based
Reports To: Program Manager

Position Summary
The Community Health Worker (CHW) provides culturally responsive, community-based services designed to address social drivers of health and improve overall health outcomes. This role supports individuals in accessing medical care, behavioral health services, and essential community resources through care coordination, system navigation, health education, and advocacy.

Working in alignment with Medi-Cal Community Health Worker benefit requirements, the CHW engages participants using a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to promote stability, self-sufficiency, and improved well-being.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The following duties are representative of the role and are not intended to be all-inclusive:
1. Participant Engagement and Assessment

• Conduct participant intake, eligibility verification, and informed consent processes.
• Administer Social Drivers of Health (SDOH) screenings and comprehensive needs assessments.
• Collaborate with participants to develop individualized action plans utilizing SMART goals.
• Engage participants using culturally responsive, strengths-based, and trauma-informed practices.

2. Care Coordination and System Navigation

• Provide health education tailored to individual participant needs.
• Assist participants in accessing healthcare services, behavioral health support, public benefits, housing, employment, and transportation resources.
• Coordinate referrals and follow up to ensure successful connection to services.
• Accompany participants to appointments, as needed, to support engagement and continuity of care.
• Advocate on behalf of participants to reduce barriers and improve access to care and services.

3. Documentation, Billing, and Compliance

• Document all services accurately and timely within the electronic health record (EHR).
• Utilize the PIP (Problem, Intervention, Plan) format for all progress notes.
• Ensure documentation meets Medi-Cal, managed care, and organizational compliance standards.
• Track service delivery, referrals, and participant outcomes as required.
• Participate in documentation audits, chart reviews, and quality improvement initiatives.

4. Collaboration and Program Support

• Participate in case conferences, team meetings, supervision, and required trainings.
• Collaborate with peer support staff, providers, and community partners to ensure coordinated care.
• Maintain professional boundaries and adhere to all organizational policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support program goals and participant success.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in community-based services, care coordination, or related human services work.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish (required).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain timely, accurate documentation.
• Basic computer proficiency, including experience with electronic records systems.
• Valid California driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of auto insurance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Community Health Worker (CHW) certification or eligibility for certification.
• Associate degree or coursework in public health, human services, social work, or a related field.
• Experience working within Medi-Cal or managed care environments.
• Familiarity with Social Drivers of Health (SDOH) frameworks and care coordination models.

Work Environment
This position operates in both office and community-based settings and requires regular fieldwork, including travel to participant homes, partner agencies, and community locations. The role requires flexibility to meet service delivery, documentation, and compliance requirements.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and use a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to travel locally on a regular basis.

Compensation & Overtime (California Compliance)
This is a non-exempt position, and employees are eligible for overtime in accordance with applicable California wage and hour laws.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The Happier Life Project is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, marital status, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.

At-Will Employment Disclaimer
Employment with The Happier Life Project is at-will. This means that either the employee or the organization may terminate employment at any time, with or without cause or notice, subject to applicable law.