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How to Become a Community Health Worker

Community health workers bridge the gap between healthcare systems and the people they serve. If you're passionate about helping others, breaking down barriers, and improving health in your neighborhood or city, this could be a meaningful and sustainable path.

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Community Health Worker Job Overview

Community health workers (CHWs) support individuals and families in navigating the healthcare system, building healthy habits, and accessing resources. They often live and work in the same communities they serve and bring trust, cultural understanding, and local knowledge to their work.

You might also see this role listed as community health outreach worker, community nutrition educator, HIV counselor, or program coordinator, depending on the focus of the job.

Job Duties
  • Educate people on managing health conditions or preventing illness
  • Help individuals connect with doctors, clinics, or social services
  • Organize outreach programs, health screenings, or wellness events
  • Advocate for community health needs with healthcare providers or local agencies
  • Track health trends and help identify service gaps
  • Collect data or survey responses for public health efforts
Salary Information
  • Entry Level: $37,930
  • Median Annual Salary: $51,030
  • Experienced: $78,560

Get Trained

Most community health workers start with a desire to serve their neighbors. Formal education isn’t always required, but targeted training helps.

Here’s how many people get started:

Earn a high school diploma or GED: This is typically the baseline for most CHW jobs or training programs.

Complete a CHW certification or training program: Many states and community colleges offer short programs focused on health education, communication, outreach, and data collection.

Get hands-on experience: Some jobs or internships involve working in clinics, schools, nonprofits, or public health departments.

Meet state requirements (if applicable): Some states require certification for CHW roles; others let employers decide.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a degree to be a community health worker?

No. Most CHW roles require a high school diploma and completion of a short training or certificate program, especially if your state offers certification.

What types of organizations hire CHWs?

Community health centers, public health departments, nonprofits, hospitals, schools, and health insurance organizations.

Is this a clinical role?

Not typically. You won’t be diagnosing or treating patients, but you will be educating, supporting, and advocating for them.

What qualities are important for this job?

Empathy, cultural awareness, communication skills, and a passion for improving your community’s well-being.

What are other job titles for this role?
  • Community Health Worker (CHW)
  • Community Health Outreach Worker
  • Program Coordinator
  • Community Health Promoter
  • HIV CTS Specialist
  • Community Nutrition Educator
  • Apprise Counselor
Can this lead to other roles in healthcare?

Yes. Some CHWs go on to become care coordinators, health educators, public health specialists, or pursue nursing or social work degrees.

Get Certified

Community Health Worker Certifications

State-Based CHW Certification
Many states offer official CHW certifications through public health departments or workforce boards.
CHW Core Competency Certificate Programs
Offered by community colleges or health networks. These programs teach communication, health literacy, outreach, and advocacy skills.
CPR/First Aid Certification
Often required if you’re providing preventive screenings or in-person outreach.