Diabetes Educator
Company : Legacy Health
Location : Portland, OR, 97227-1623
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 2 January 2026
Overview
As an expert in your field, you understand that diabetes self-management looks different for every patient. Some individuals manage their care independently, while others rely on the support of caregivers. Each patient is unique - and you approach them, and their families, with dignity, compassion, and personalized education to support their journey. In everything you do, you embody Legacy’s mission of making life better for others.
If this sounds like you, we invite you to apply for our Diabetes Educator role.
Responsibilities
- Provides patient and family instruction about the care of diabetes.
- Assists in the development of diabetes education materials and programs in collaboration with the health care team.
- May participate in outreach education in rural communities.
- Provides education on diabetes to members of the health care team.
- Communicates ongoing analysis of patient and family needs, verbally or in writing, to appropriate health care team members.
- Completes a minimum of 15 hours of continuing education per year in diabetes and education principles.
- Provides individual assessment, goal setting, planning, implementation of plan, and evaluation and follow-up.
- Utilizes evidence-based guidelines to guide practice.
- Helps to develop and implement evaluation of educational offerings.
- Uses continuous quality improvement and LEAN principles to improve service to best meet customer needs. Measures outcomes.
- Participates in development of educational offerings.
- Assists in development of the program plan and participates in yearly program review.
- Informs patients of the existence and sources of appropriate diabetes supplies.
- Provides for dissemination of information regarding research developments and diabetes.
- Networks with other diabetes educators to stay current on modalities of education.
- Participates in research projects when appropriate.
- Participates in the provision of cost effective patient education through the full continuum (inpatient, outpatient, home care).
- Assists in the development of system wide standards of care for diabetes education.
- Maintains education hours efficiently and productively according to budget plan.
- Utilizes appropriate community resources to assist patients and families as needed.
- Participates in the planning and presentation of community and professional educational programs.
- Participates in the diabetes community through work in community programs.
- Participates in media relations and coverage for the center when the opportunity presents itself.
Qualifications
Education:
- Registered Dietitian or Registered Nurse (BSN preferred).
- Completion of 30 hours of continuing education in diabetes education principles in prior two years.
Experience:
- Minimum two years of experience in diabetes education in acute care or ambulatory care setting.
Skills:
- Basic familiarity with computers preferred.
Licensure
- Applicable state licensure.
- Certified Diabetes Educator preferred; certification required within 2 years of employment.
Pay Range
USD $45.46 - USD $65.01 /Hr.Our Commitment to Health and Equal Opportunity
Our Legacy is good for health for Our People, Our Patients, Our Communities, Our World. Above all, we will do the right thing.
If you are passionate about our mission and believe you can contribute to our team, we encourage you to apply—even if you don't meet every qualification listed. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can grow and succeed.
Legacy Health is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion or creed, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
To learn more about our employee benefits click here: www.legacyhealth.org/For-Health-Professionals/careers/benefiting-you
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Frequently asked questions
Portland's healthcare sector is growing, increasing demand for specialized roles like diabetes educators. However, the market sees moderate competition due to several qualified professionals. Staying current with certifications and local healthcare trends can enhance your chances in this evolving environment.
Yes, outreach in rural Oregon requires adaptability to limited resources and diverse patient needs. Diabetes educators often tailor programs to accommodate geographic barriers and cultural differences, ensuring effective education despite these challenges.
Unlike general nursing, diabetes educators focus on personalized patient education, continuous assessment, and goal-setting for diabetes self-management. They also collaborate extensively with healthcare teams to develop education programs and stay updated on diabetes research and supplies.
At Legacy Health, diabetes educators embody the mission by delivering compassionate, tailored education that empowers patients and families. Their role extends beyond clinical duties, actively improving life quality through community engagement and evidence-based practices.
Legacy Health prefers candidates with state licensure and Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) credentials, ideally obtained within two years of employment. Ongoing diabetes education training ensures educators meet the organization's high standards and patient needs.
Hourly wages range from approximately $45.46 to $65.01, reflecting experience and certifications. This pay scale aligns with Portland’s living costs and the specialized skills required for diabetes education within a reputable healthcare system like Legacy Health.
Strong communication, patient assessment, and educational program development are key. Familiarity with evidence-based guidelines, basic computer skills, and continuous learning in diabetes care principles also contribute significantly to success.
Yes, part-time roles are becoming more common to accommodate flexible schedules and community outreach initiatives. These positions provide valuable experience while supporting diverse patient needs across inpatient and outpatient settings.
Diabetes educators at Legacy Health collaborate closely with nurses, dietitians, and physicians, sharing patient insights and education strategies. This teamwork ensures holistic care plans and continuous improvement in diabetes management protocols.