Community Health Educator - Rural Outreach

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 280,000 - 360,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contribution

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a compassionate Community Health Educator to serve Bloemfontein and surrounding rural areas in the Free State. You will design and deliver health education programs, conduct screenings, and provide counseling to individuals and groups in community settings.

Travel across the Free State will be required to reach underserved populations. The role emphasizes culturally sensitive outreach, collaboration with local providers, and the development of educational materials to

Qualifications

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Community Health, Public Health, Nursing, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of public health principles and rural health challenges.
• Experience delivering health education and working with underserved populations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver engaging health education programs on nutrition, hygiene, disease prevention, maternal and child health, and chronic disease management.
• Conduct health assessments and screenings in community settings.
• Provide individual and group counseling on health-related issues.
• Collaborate with local healthcare providers and community leaders to ensure comprehensive health support.
• Develop culturally appropriate health education materials and resources.

Skills

Community Health

Health Education

Public Speaking

Counseling

Record Keeping

Education

Diploma or Bachelor’s in Community Health/Public Health/Nursing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dedicated non-profit organization committed to improving health outcomes in underserved rural areas, is seeking a compassionate and proactive Community Health Educator for the Bloemfontein region. This essential role will focus on delivering vital health education and preventative care information to remote communities within the Free State province. You will be responsible for developing and implementing culturally sensitive health programs, empowering individuals and families with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about their well-being. The ideal candidate possesses strong communication and interpersonal skills, a deep understanding of public health principles, and a genuine passion for serving rural populations. This is a significant opportunity to make a tangible difference in the health and quality of life for those living in the Free State's rural communities, working on the front lines of health equity. We are looking for an individual who is adaptable, resourceful, and committed to fostering healthier futures through education and outreach.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver engaging health education programs on topics such as nutrition, hygiene, disease prevention, maternal and child health, and chronic disease management.
• Conduct health assessments and screenings in community settings.
• Provide individual and group counseling on health-related issues.
• Facilitate workshops and community meetings to raise awareness about local health challenges and solutions.
• Collaborate with local healthcare providers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to ensure comprehensive health support.
• Develop culturally appropriate health education materials and resources.
• Promote healthy lifestyles and encourage adherence to medical advice within the community.
• Maintain accurate records of patient interactions, program activities, and health outcomes.
• Advocate for the health needs of the community and connect individuals with relevant health services.
• Participate in community health fairs and outreach events.

Requirements

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Community Health, Public Health, Nursing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience working as a health educator or in a community health role, particularly with rural or underserved populations.
• Strong understanding of public health principles and common health issues affecting rural communities in South Africa.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with diverse individuals and groups.
• Experience in developing and delivering health education programs.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and basic data collection.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a rural setting.
• Empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to serving vulnerable populations.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively within the Free State province, often over challenging terrain.
• Fluency in English and proficiency in at least one local indigenous language spoken in the Free State is highly advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, along with benefits including medical aid and a contribution to a retirement fund. This role provides the deep satisfaction of directly improving health outcomes for those in need within the Bloemfontein and surrounding rural communities. We offer a supportive team environment and opportunities for professional development in public health. Join a mission-driven organization committed to making a tangible difference in the Free State's healthcare landscape.