Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
Community Health Workers are public health professionals who serve as a bridge between communities and healthcare systems. They focus on improving the overall health of communities by providing health education, advocacy, and connecting people to needed health services.
Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Short-term
Projected Growth: 14.1% (far above average)
Annual job openings: 7,800
Direct AI exposure: 28% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 42% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $52K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $39K per year | $46K per year | $52K per year | $62K per year | $77K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $870 above the national average. | ||||
Community Health Workers typically work in various settings, including non-profit organizations, healthcare facilities, government health departments, and sometimes in field environments directly within communities. Their role often requires them to travel within the community, attending community events, home visits, and meetings.
Community Health Workers play a vital role in improving access and quality of healthcare in underserved or marginalized communities. They work closely with community members to understand their needs and concerns, providing valuable insights for healthcare systems to address these issues effectively. Their role is diverse, including health promotion, disease prevention, advocacy, and community-based research. They often develop and implement community health programs, organize health screenings, and provide informal counseling. The position requires strong interpersonal and communication skills, as building trust and relationships within the community is crucial. They need to be culturally sensitive and aware, able to work with diverse populations, and understand the social determinants of health that impact their community. Community Health Workers often collaborate with a wide range of professionals, including healthcare providers, social workers, and public health officials, to develop strategies and interventions that improve community health outcomes. The work of a Community Health Worker is deeply rooted in social justice, focusing on reducing health disparities and improving health equity. It involves not only individual health education but also advocacy and community organizing to address broader social and environmental issues impacting health.
The education requirements can vary; however, a high school diploma is often essential, with some roles requiring post-secondary education or a bachelor's degree in public health or a related field. On-the-job training is common, and some states have certification programs for Community Health Workers.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
