HEALTH EDUCATOR

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:

The work involves responsibility for administering countywide health educational programs, geared towards living healthy lifestyles. The incumbent assesses health education needs, plans, develops, implements and evaluates educational programs, and prepares and submits a variety of documentation. The incumbent coordinates and staffs community educational programs relating to normal physical, social, and emotional health during life stages. This includes, but is not limited to, healthy parent – child and peer communication. Education often relates, but is not limited to, reproductive health issues. The work is performed under the general supervision of a higher level administrator. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: (Illustrative only)

Assesses community health educational needs by distributing questionnaires, conducting informational sessions, and maintaining on-going contact with community service agencies, social service agencies and private businesses;

Plans, develops, implements and evaluates community based health education programs to promote healthy lifestyles by conducting workshops, forums and group discussions in accordance with Federal, State and local laws, rules and regulations

Designs, develops and distributes health literature, brochures and advertising for program promotion and community education purposes;

Writes health press releases and articles for submission to the local newspaper;

Conducts health training and presentations to schools, community service professionals, and agencies in the community;

Assists with the preparation and coordination of grant applications and grant-related activities to carry out public health programs;

Assists with the building, maintaining and participates in coalitions and networks to promote cooperative efforts in health promotion and disease prevention;

Inventories and orders health education materials and supplies.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Good knowledge of modern principles and practices related to health education;

Good knowledge of Federal, State and local laws, rules and regulations regarding health education;

Good knowledge of public information and public relations techniques;

Good knowledge of community organizations and service providers related to health;

HEALTH EDUCATOR 2

Good knowledge of reproductive health issues and their effect on youth and family lifestyles;

Working knowledge of sexually transmitted diseases;

Ability to formulate a needs assessment for program areas;

Ability to plan, develop, implement and evaluate health educational programs including the development and delivery of presentations;

Ability to understand and interpret complex oral instructions and/or written directions;

Ability to deal effectively with the public, especially in sensitive areas of health such as reproductive health and sexually transmitted disease;

Ability to prepare and deliver presentations in a clear, concise and articulate manner;

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others;

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing;

Ability to understand and empathize with the needs and concerns of others;

Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Graduation from a regionally accredited or NYS registered college or university with a bachelor’s degree or higher in Health, Health Science, Health Promotion, Psychology, Sociology or closely related field.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Possession of a valid New York State driver’s license is required. Failure to maintain a NYS driver’s license including driving privileges throughout employment will result in disciplinary action or dismissal.