Traditional Health Worker I,II or III at Jefferson County, (OR), OR

About the Department

Salary Range 
THW I - $45,987.08 - $58,766.95
THW II - $47,840.19 - $61,147.01
THW III - $51,868.41 $66,295.68

Summary:
The Traditional Health Worker I (THW I) builds strong relationships within the community to improve access to public health services and support prevention efforts. The THW I may support clinic-based services, health promotion, and/or family support activities across multiple Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Program Elements, such as tobacco prevention, immunizations, and/or maternal and child health. This role helps reduce barriers, support culturally responsive care, and strengthen community engagement through outreach and education. The Traditional Health Worker I works under the direct supervision of the Health Promotions Supervisor or Clinic Supervisor.

The Traditional Health Worker II (THW II) builds strong relationships within the community to improve access to public health services. The THW II may support clinic-based services, health promotion, and/or family support activities across multiple Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Program Elements, such as tobacco prevention, immunizations, and/or maternal and child health. Their deep understanding of local needs allows them to bridge gaps, reduce barriers, and support culturally responsive care. As a liaison between the community and public health programs, the THW II helps individuals navigate systems and connect with appropriate resources and support services. The Traditional Health Worker II works under the direct supervision of the Health Promotions Supervisor or Clinic Supervisor.

The Traditional Health Worker III (THW III) serves as an advanced-level public health liaison who provides leadership in outreach strategy, systems navigation, and program development. The THW III may support clinic-based services, health promotion, and/or family support activities across multiple Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Program Elements, such as tobacco prevention, immunizations, and/or maternal and child health. THW III staff possess extensive field experience and hold multiple relevant certifications that enable them to support a wide range of services and advance community-informed public health efforts. This position operates with a high degree of independence and plays a critical role in equity-focused, systems-level initiatives. The Traditional Health Worker III works under the direct supervision of the Health Promotions Supervisor or Clinic Supervisor.

Distinguishing Characteristics:
The Traditional Health Worker I serves in a foundational role within the Traditional Health Worker classification. Employees in this position support essential public health services, build trust with community members, and assist in delivering outreach, navigation, and engagement activities. Work is guided by established protocols and supported by close collaboration with internal staff and community partners. This is a non-clinical, non-supervisory position that plays a key role in helping individuals connect to resources and participate in community-based services.

The Traditional Health Worker II builds on the foundational responsibilities of the THW classification by contributing with greater independence, broader expertise, and increased responsibility. Employees in this role bring relevant certifications and hands-on experience supporting community health efforts across a range of focus areas. The THW II demonstrates the ability to manage more complex service needs, support planning for outreach or health education, and confidently represent Jefferson County Public Health in collaborative settings. This role strengthens connections between the department and community by helping shape services that reflect local experiences, feedback, and priorities.

The Traditional Health Worker III is the most advanced role in the Traditional Health Worker classification and functions with a high level of independence and leadership. Employees in this classification demonstrate deep understanding of social determinants of health, system barriers, and population-specific needs. They lead outreach initiatives, co-develop strategies with internal staff and external partners, and may serve as mentors or trainers for other THWs. The THW III collaborates closely with department leadership and represents the agency in high-level regional coalitions or initiatives. While not a supervisory role, it includes significant leadership in planning, coordination, and evaluation. The THW III works with public health programs to develop and implement services informed by community assessments, program evaluations, and local priorities.

Position Duties

Traditional Health Worker I

• Support outreach, education, and client engagement efforts across public health program areas.
• Assist individuals in accessing appropriate public health resources and services.
• Participate in planning and delivery of public health outreach and education activities.
• Promote healthy behaviors and connect clients to local programs and services.
• Assist with preparation and delivery of health education materials, campaigns, or presentations.
• Maintain accurate documentation and support referral follow-up.
• Represent community voice in discussions or meetings when requested.
• Collaborate with internal staff to ensure clients are supported throughout service pathways.
• Support tobacco prevention and education and other program priorities aligned with the work plan.
• Maintain client confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA standards.
• Participate as a member of the Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Team.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Traditional Health Worker II

• Educate clients and their families about available community resources and help connect them to local services.
• Provide relevant educational materials and social support.
• Conduct initial interviews with clients and families to assess eligibility and service needs.
• Assist clients in utilizing resources by preparing referrals and following up to ensure successful connections.
• Act as a liaison between programs to facilitate communication and minimize conflict between service systems.
• Maintain accurate documentation of client progress and support adherence to service plans.
• Plan community meetings with partner agencies and organizations to identify and address community needs.
• Provide culturally appropriate health education, basic health screenings, and support for managing chronic conditions and achieving health goals.
• Advocate for individuals and communities within the health and social services systems.
• Assist in planning, organizing, conducting, and evaluate community outreach programs, workshops, and events to promote health education, risk reduction, and healthy behaviors.
• Identify and partner with providers and organizations to host community events, health fairs, and health education programs.
• Identify new community partners and maintain ongoing relationships in assigned service areas.
• Support Public Health Modernization and Accreditation activities as required.
• Serve as a member of the Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Team and be available for call-back during emergencies or other urgent situations.
• Collaborate on materials for media related to public health topics.
• Operate a county vehicle to attend public health functions or respond to emergencies.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Protect client confidentiality and maintain secure communication practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Traditional Health Worker III

• Lead design, implementation, and evaluation of community health outreach and education strategies across multiple public health program areas
• Develop culturally and linguistically responsive materials and engagement tools aligned with departmental priorities
• Serve as a liaison for complex or sensitive issues requiring coordination between public health and multiple systems or sectors
• Identify and analyze local health trends, barriers, and community feedback to guide program development and policy recommendations
• Mentor and provide informal training support to Traditional Health Worker I and II staff
• Contribute to strategic planning, grant writing, and performance improvement efforts
• Facilitate stakeholder meetings, focus groups, or community forums to support inclusive engagement and elevate community voice
• Partner with the Public Information Officer (PIO) to co-create messaging for campaigns or emerging public health needs
• Maintain timely, accurate records and contribute to data-informed decision-making processes
• Support emergency preparedness and response as needed
• Other duties as assigned
• Lead planning, delivery, and evaluation of community health outreach and education initiatives
• Support program development by contributing to needs assessments, grant applications, and health equity strategies
• Identify emerging community needs and recommend responsive interventions
• Guide THW staff in adopting effective engagement practices and community-informed approaches
• Develop and deliver public-facing presentations and training materials
• Maintain relationships with key partners and advise on opportunities for systems improvement
• Support media response and serve as subject matter contributor on community engagement topics
• Maintain accurate documentation and assist with performance reporting and quality improvement
• Promote cultural humility and inclusive practices across all program areas
• Travel independently to meetings, events, and community sites as needed
• Participate in emergency response efforts or preparedness planning as required
• Other duties as assigned

The Traditional Health Worker I and II may fulfill the following roles:            
Community Health Worker (CHW)

• Peer Support Specialist (PSS)
• Peer Wellness Specialist (PWS)
• Birth Doula
• Personal Health Navigator (PHN)
• Child Passenger Safety Technician
• Family Connects Community Alignment Specialist
• Family Connects Patient Services Specialist
• Health Related Social Needs (HRSN) specialist
• Oregon Mothers Care specialist
• Oregon Health Plan navigator
• Perinatal Care Coordinator
• Tobacco Treatment Specialist

 The Traditional Health Worker III may serve in functional capacities such as:

• Lead Tobacco Treatment Specialist
• Regional Health Navigator Liaison
• Public Health Community Strategist
• Senior Community Health Educator
• High-Risk Population Engagement Lead

Minimum Qualifications

THW I
Knowledge and Skills

• Foundational understanding of public health principles, health equity, and culturally responsive care.
• Awareness of trauma-informed and client-centered service approaches.
• Knowledge of local community resources, service systems, and referral pathways.
• Familiarity with outreach, education, and prevention strategies in a public health context.
• Ability to communicate respectfully and effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those with lived experience or facing barriers to care.
• Understanding of confidentiality and ethical considerations in service delivery.
• Basic proficiency with digital tools, including Microsoft Office, Microsoft Teams, and data entry platforms.
• Ability to follow protocols, complete documentation accurately, and support data tracking.
• Demonstrated reliability, professionalism in client engagement, public representation, and team collaboration.
• Willingness to participate in training and skill development to support evolving public health needs.

• Protect client confidentiality and maintain secure communication practices.

Abilities 

• Build trust and rapport with clients, community members, and partners.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with diverse individuals, both verbally and in writing.
• Follow established protocols while maintaining flexibility to meet client needs.
• Demonstrate consistent reliability, punctuality, and professional conduct.
• Maintain confidentiality and support ethical service delivery.
• Collaborate effectively with team members, supervisors, and external partners.
• Accurately complete documentation and data entry tasks.
• Navigate community settings safely and represent the department positively during outreach.
• Operate a motor vehicle to travel to outreach sites, partner agencies, or events as required.
• Adapt to changing priorities and support emergency response or special projects as needed
• Participate actively in training and staff development activities
• Use time effectively and remain organized in a fast-paced environment

Physical Abilities and Working Conditions: 
Work is performed in an office, clinic, or community setting. There is potential for call back after hours and for travel at night or on weekends in all kinds of weather to participate in Public Health programs, meetings, or to respond to disaster events.  This position requires the ability to sit and/or stand at a computer using rapid wrist, hand, and finger movement for extended periods.  There may be some exposure to communicable/ infectious diseases and some risk of injury from assaultive/abusive individuals. The position requires the ability to lift, push or pull up to 30lbs occasionally.
Education and Experience: 
A high school diploma or GED AND a minimum of one (1) year of relevant work experience in Public Health, Human Services, Education, and/or Behavioral Health, clinical setting or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience should include working with diverse populations across race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Bilingual skills are preferred.
Optional Bilingual Pay Incentive

• Translate for clients and provide written interpretation for JCPH programs
• Must successfully complete Jefferson County Bilingual Proficiency exam.
• Be credentialed as a Medical Interpreter (or similar) with the Oregon Health Authority

Licenses/Certificates/Background: 
Valid Oregon Driver’s License required. CPR certification within 6 months of hire. Position requires background check. At least one approved Traditional Health Worker certification (e.g., Community Health Worker (CHW), Peer Support Specialist (PSS), Personal Health Navigator (PHN), etc.), is required within 1 year of hire. All certifications must be maintained in good standing.

THW II

• Familiarity with evidence-based approaches in health education and prevention, including areas such as tobacco cessation, wellness, lactation, and chronic disease management
• Knowledge of public health principles and community-based service delivery
• Understanding of trauma-informed care and culturally responsive practices
• Demonstrated ability to cultivate strong, inclusive relationships and navigate partnerships across public health, social services, and community settings with professionalism and care
• Knowledge of community resources, referral pathways, and systems navigation
• Knowledge of confidentiality laws, mandatory reporting requirements, and ethical client engagement
• Ability to interpret and apply policies and regulations related to program implementation
• Familiarity with Public Health Modernization, Accreditation, and community health improvement initiatives
• Proficiency in written and verbal communication to deliver presentations, document activities, and prepare reports
• Experience contributing to the development or implementation of outreach strategies, health promotion campaigns, or educational materials
• Proficiency with digital tools and software, including Microsoft Office, Teams, and electronic record keeping systems

 
Abilities

• Communicate clearly and effectively across diverse audiences, including clients, families, providers, and community partners.
• Apply sound judgment in navigating service systems and problem-solving client barriers.
• Plan, organize, and carry out outreach activities, health education sessions, and public health events with minimal supervision.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external agencies to facilitate referrals and support client progress.
• Manage multiple tasks and timelines while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Maintain accurate records and assist in preparing reports that contribute to program tracking and evaluation.
• Demonstrate professionalism, cultural humility, and respect in all interactions.
• Represent public health programs in meetings, coalitions, and other cross-sector settings.
• Operate a motor vehicle to travel to outreach sites, partner agencies, or events as required.
• Maintain consistent, timely, and reliable attendance and respond to changing community needs as they arise.

Physical Abilities and Working Conditions: 
This position generally works in an office environment. There is potential for call back after hours and for travel at night or on weekends in all kinds of weather to participate in Public Health programs, meetings, or to respond to disaster events.  This position requires the ability to sit and/or stand at a computer using rapid wrist, hand, and finger movement for extended periods.  There may be some exposure to communicable/ infectious diseases and some risk of injury from assaultive/abusive individuals. The position requires the ability to lift, push or pull up to 30lbs occasionally.
Education and Experience: 
An associate’s degree AND two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in Public Health, Health Education, Community Outreach, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered in lieu of stated educational requirements (e.g., four (4) or more years of directly related experience without a degree). Experience should include providing services to diverse populations of varying race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Bilingual skills are preferred.
Optional Bilingual Pay Incentive

• Translate for clients and provides written interpretation for JCPH programs
• Must successfully complete Jefferson County Bilingual Proficiency exam.
• Be credentialed as a Medical Interpreter (or similar) with the Oregon Health Authority

Licenses/Certificates/Background: 
Valid Oregon Driver’s License required. CPR certification within 6 months of hire. Position requires background check. Must possess at least one Oregon Health Authority-recognized Traditional Health Worker (THW) certification (e.g., Community Health Worker, Peer Support Specialist, Peer Wellness Specialist, etc.). Must also possess at least one additional public health-related certification aligned with program needs (e.g., Tobacco Treatment Specialist, National Child Passenger Safety, etc.). All certifications must be maintained in good standing.

THW III

• Advanced understanding of public health principles, health equity frameworks, and systems navigation
• Demonstrated experience leading outreach, engagement, or program development efforts
• Ability to facilitate diverse groups and represent public health perspectives in cross-sector settings
• Knowledge of culturally responsive and trauma-informed care practices
• Ability to design, deliver, and evaluate health education initiatives across a range of public health focus areas
• Familiarity with Public Health Modernization and Accreditation standards
• Excellent communication, documentation, and group facilitation skills
• Skilled in evaluation, needs assessment, collaborative planning, and reporting
• High digital literacy, including use of Microsoft Office, Teams, and reporting/data systems

Abilities

• Maintain regular, reliable, and timely attendance in alignment with departmental expectations
• Communicate effectively in oral and written form with diverse audiences
• Use time efficiently; demonstrate organization, accuracy, and attention to detail
• Write clearly and concisely; prepare professional and meaningful documentation and reports
• Work collaboratively across teams and disciplines while demonstrating respect for diverse perspectives
• Lead complex projects and adapt to shifting public health priorities with minimal supervision
• Cultivate and sustain strategic relationships that improve access to services and reduce disparities
• Guide peers and partners in culturally responsive and inclusive engagement approaches
• Maintain professionalism and accountability in independent and team-based work
• Think critically and offer innovative, equity-focused solutions to public health challenges
• Represent the department in high-stakes meetings and cross-sector decision-making spaces
• Support training, onboarding, or informal mentorship of Traditional Health Workers

 
Physical Abilities and Working Conditions: 
This position generally works in an office environment. There is potential for call back after hours and for travel at night or on weekends in all kinds of weather to participate in Public Health programs, meetings, or to respond to disaster events.  This position requires the ability to sit and/or stand at a computer using rapid wrist, hand, and finger movement for extended periods.  There may be some exposure to communicable/ infectious diseases and some risk of injury from assaultive/abusive individuals. The position requires the ability to lift, push or pull up to 30lbs occasionally.
Education and Experience: 
An associate’s degree AND a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in Public Health, Health Education, or Community Outreach, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in public health, Social Work, or a related field is strongly preferred, but not required. Experience should include work with diverse populations and demonstrated leadership in program development or systems coordination. Bilingual skills are preferred.

Optional Bilingual Pay Incentive

• Translate for clients and provides written interpretation for JCPH programs
• Must successfully complete Jefferson County Bilingual Proficiency exam.
• Be credentialed as a Medical Interpreter (or similar) with the Oregon Health Authority

Licenses/Certificates/Background: 
Valid Oregon Driver’s License required. CPR certification within 6 months of hire. Position requires background check. Must possess at least one Oregon Health Authority-recognized Traditional Health Worker (THW) certification (e.g., Community Health Worker, Peer Support Specialist, Peer Wellness Specialist, etc.). Must also possess at least two or more additional public health-related certifications aligned with program needs (e.g., Tobacco Treatment Specialist, National Child Passenger Safety, etc.). All certifications must be maintained in good standing.

Other Qualifications

Probationary Requirement: 
This position requires successful completion of a nine-month probationary period.

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