POSITION: HEALTH RESOURCE ADVOCATE

Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) is seeking to hire a Health Resource Advocate (HRA) to provide front-line support to school districts for the purpose of promoting health education. The HRA position supports school districts to identify emerging school-related health concerns, and strengthens evidence-based health practices by providing consultations, prevention services, and public health strategies for two counties and multiple school districts. We are hiring an HRA to work out our office location in Charlotte, MI.

We are a nationally accredited public health service agency for Barry and Eaton counties. We protect and improve the health of Barry and Eaton counties through education; promotion of healthy lifestyles; and implementation of effective policies and programs for individuals, families, businesses, and communities. Our vision is a community where everyone has the opportunity to live a long, healthy, and active life.

In this Health Resource Advocate role, you will have the opportunity to:

1. Serve as a health department liaison to school districts and build relationships with area schools to support health and wellbeing of school populations (in-person, over the phone, and electronically).

2. As a public health expert, provide guidance and train students, parents, and school professionals on disease prevention strategies, including Covid-19, and other school-health related topics.

3. Assess the health needs of the school community, identify target populations, and make recommendations to improve their health and wellness.

4. Interpret, review, and disseminate model policies, standards, and best practices to address identified health and wellness opportunities in school communities.

5. Within a team, develop and facilitate evidence based public health interventions to address communicable diseases, chronic diseases, school nutrition, mental health, etc.

6. Design and distribute health education materials and aids (pamphlets, notices, videos, audio clips, images, posters, etc.) using graphic design software.

7. Monitor communicable disease trends in school districts, assists with case investigation, and respond based on school policies and procedures.

8. Assist with the development and implementation of communicable disease testing plans and reporting procedures.

9. In coordination with school administration, proactively communicates with parents, families, and staff on updates related to communicable diseases, public health, legal issues, and new legislation that impacts school health programs and services.

Ideal Candidates Will Possess:

1. Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Health Education, Community Health, Social Work, or related field of study

2. 6 months of experience working with schools or institutions with health and family services

3. Knowledge of community health and social service resources

4. Ability to document processes, maintain databases, and share access to resources

5. Excellent verbal and written communication skills

6. Ability to use design software (Adobe Illustrator, Canva, or similar)

7. Microsoft Office skills (Word, Excel and Outlook)

8. Ability to travel for business using personal transportation

This position receives health insurance first of the month after your hire date, 100% employer paid dental & vision, paid time off, paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement opportunities, professional development opportunities, and more! BEDHD is also a Federal Public Loan Forgiveness Program eligible employer.

Barry-Eaton District Health Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer.