Community Health Worker
Company : Catholic Health Initiatives
Location : Tacoma, WA, 98402
Job Type : Full Time
Salary : 20.91-29.54 HOUR
Date Posted : 14 January 2026
Job Summary and Responsibilities
This job is responsible for working in conjunction with a provider/interdisciplinary team to provide outreach services to patients with identified social, behavioral health, or mental health needs. An incumbent works in the field in a variety of settings, including physician clinics, patient homes, and the Emergency Department of the Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) hospitals to provide linkages for the various health care and social needs of the enrolled patients.
Work is focused on: 1) establishing effective relationships and guiding the patient/caregiver through the health care system, working to eliminate barriers that might otherwise adversely impact patient care/outcomes; 2) assisting in the coordination of efforts with the medical team to facilitate continuity of care and enhance patient satisfaction; 3) providing general education/training designed to promote self-awareness and reinforce/maximize patient/caregiver self-management skills/tools/resources; and 4) facilitating access to support services, community resources and primary care for enrolled patients and tools for self-management support.
Focused on the most vulnerable populations, work is accomplished through effective coaching, patient/family education and planned follow-up activities, with an incumbent providing information/guidance to the patient/family for effective care transition and to reinforce the need for active participation in maximizing overall health.
Work requires excellent customer service skills with the ability to establish positive relationships with patients, in-person and over the phone, along with exceptional listening skills, excellent verbal and written communication skills, and an understanding of resources and available community support.
Job Requirements
- One year of healthcare and/or community-based work experience that would demonstrate attainment of the requisite job knowledge/abilities.
- Post-secondary community health worker training is preferred.
- Certification/licensure as an MA, CNA, HHP or LPN is preferred.
Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has a rich history of providing exceptional healthcare, dating back to 1891. Building upon a legacy of compassionate care and innovation, our organization has evolved over the years through strategic partnerships and integrations to expand our reach and services across the Puget Sound area.
Today, as Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we remain deeply committed to healing the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – in the communities we serve. This commitment is strengthened by the diverse expertise and shared values brought together through our growth.
Our dedicated providers offer a full spectrum of health care services, from routine wellness to complex disease management, all grounded in rigorous research and education. Our comprehensive network of 10 hospitals and nearly 300 care sites strategically located across the greater Puget Sound region reflects our ongoing commitment to accessibility and comprehensive care.
We are proud of our pioneering medical advances and numerous awards and accreditations that reflect our dedication to excellence. When you join Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, you become part of a team that delivers top-quality, professional healthcare in modern, well-equipped facilities, and contributes to a legacy of service built on collaboration and shared purpose.
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Frequently asked questions
In Tacoma, Community Health Workers often engage with diverse populations facing unique socio-economic challenges, requiring tailored outreach and resource coordination. The local healthcare network, including Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, emphasizes integrated care, which shapes the community health approach distinctively compared to other WA cities.
Yes, certifications such as MA, CNA, HHP, or LPN are highly regarded in Tacoma’s healthcare settings. Additionally, post-secondary community health worker training enhances prospects, as local employers like Catholic Health Initiatives prioritize credentials that demonstrate both clinical knowledge and community engagement skills.
Community Health Workers specialize in bridging clinical care with social support, focusing on vulnerable groups and chronic disease management. Unlike general health workers, they provide personalized coaching, facilitate access to community resources, and support patient self-management, making their role integral in holistic public health strategies.
Daily tasks include personalized patient outreach, coordinating with interdisciplinary teams, educating patients on self-care, and navigating social services. This hands-on involvement helps overcome barriers to care, ensuring patients remain engaged and supported throughout their health journey.
Community Health Workers often advance into case management, health education, or public health coordination roles. Gaining certifications and hands-on experience in Tacoma’s integrated health systems can open doors to supervisory positions or specialized community outreach initiatives.
Catholic Health Initiatives provides a collaborative environment with access to diverse patient populations and interdisciplinary teams. Employees benefit from comprehensive training, exposure to innovative healthcare models, and opportunities to influence community wellness strategies in the Puget Sound region.
Workers may encounter barriers like socioeconomic disparities and complex behavioral health needs. Navigating these requires cultural competency, strong communication, and resourcefulness to connect patients to appropriate services while aligning with the organization’s compassionate care values.
Community Health Workers in Tacoma generally earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on experience and certifications. Positions with organizations like Catholic Health Initiatives may offer competitive compensation reflecting local market demand and specialized healthcare skills.
Tacoma shows moderate demand for Community Health Workers due to ongoing public health initiatives and an aging population. While competition exists, candidates with relevant certifications and community-based experience have strong prospects, especially with reputable employers like Virginia Mason Franciscan Health.
Part-time roles are available to accommodate flexible schedules and targeted outreach programs. In Tacoma’s healthcare ecosystem, such positions support community engagement efforts, often supplementing full-time staff and enhancing service coverage in underserved neighborhoods.