Join Cleveland Clinic where research and surgery are advanced, technology is leading-edge, patient care is world-class, and caregivers are family. Cleveland Clinic is recognized as one of the top hospitals in the country. You will work alongside passionate and dedicated caregivers, receive endless support and appreciation, and build a rewarding career with one of the most respected healthcare organizations in the world.
The Community Health Worker (CHW) Apprentice is a key role designed to help individuals develop the essential skills needed to serve as a liaison between patients and the health care system, as well as community-based organizations. Working under the mentorship and guidance of an experienced CHW preceptor, the apprentice will gain hands-on experience and training in a variety of functions that aim to improve health outcomes for diverse and underserved populations. This role will focus on building strong community partnerships, promoting health equity, and facilitating access to vital health and community services.
This position includes a combination of on-site work hours and evening classes as part of the apprenticeship program. The apprentice will serve with our team at Langston Hughes while also attending classes at Tri-C Metro Campus. The apprentice will begin on a standard daytime schedule weekdays 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, then transition to an adjusted schedule once coursework begins in February 2026 - June 2026.
Classes will be held virtually beginning in 2026 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., with occasional in-person labs at Tri-C Metro Campus.
Upon successful completion of the Community Health Worker certification, apprentices will have the opportunity to choose a placement as a Community Health Worker at one of the following Cleveland Clinic locations: Beachwood, Fairview, or Langston Hughes.
A caregiver who excels in this role will:
The CHW Apprentices will learn and demonstrate core functions such as patient care, community outreach, and connecting patients with essential resources.
Will work closely with patients and community organizations, creating an environment of trust and open communication.
Apprentices will learn how to develop relationships to improve healthcare access and outcomes.
Apprentices will be trained to better understand the cultural dynamics of the community they serve.
Learn to support and ensure that community healthcare services are accessible, appropriate, and respectful of the community’s needs.
Help patients navigate the healthcare system, ensuring they get the support they need.
Apprentices will gain experience in this aspect through informal counseling and advocacy.
Apprentices will participate in outreach efforts to educate the community on health matters and promote self-sufficiency, improving the overall health knowledge of individuals and the community.
The program emphasizes the importance of partnerships between medical providers, community organizations, and CHWs to create a comprehensive support system for patients. Apprentices will learn to be an intermediary between these groups, enhancing coordination and care delivery.
Minimum qualifications for the ideal future caregiver include:
High school diploma or GED
English required.
Sharing knowledge and expertise gained through personal identity, culture, or background to support the needs of patients and families.
Effective time management practices (able to organize time, prioritize projects efficiently and effectively) de-escalation skills; problem solving skills and managing change and conflict; and knowledge of computer software.
Able to develop trust and effective work relationships with staff members, individuals, families and external and internal professionals; strong information gathering/interviewing techniques.
Preferred qualifications for the ideal future caregiver include:
Informal community health worker experience
Community service experience preferred.
Past work experience in healthcare or medical office setting preferred.
Our caregivers continue to create the best outcomes for our patients across each of our facilities. Click the link and see how we’re dedicated to providing what matters most to you: https://jobs.clevelandclinic.org/benefits-2/
Physical Requirements:
May need to move around intermittently during the day, including sitting, standing, stooping, bending and ambulating. May need to remain still for extended periods, including sitting and standing.
Evening and weekend work may be required.
May need to lift boxes or carry objects.
Possess dexterity to operate a PC and other office equipment.
Personal Protective Equipment:
Follow Standard Precautions using personal protective equipment as required.
The policy of Cleveland Clinic Health System and its system hospitals (Cleveland Clinic Health System) is to provide equal opportunity to all of our caregivers and applicants for employment in our drug free environment. All offers of employment are followed by testing for controlled substances.
Cleveland Clinic Health System administers an influenza prevention program. You will be required to comply with this program, which will include obtaining an influenza vaccination on an annual basis or obtaining an approved exemption.
Decisions concerning employment, transfers and promotions are made upon the basis of the best qualified candidate without regard to color, race, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, ancestry, status as a disabled or Vietnam era veteran or any other characteristic protected by law. Information provided on this application may be shared with any Cleveland Clinic Health System facility.
Please review the Equal Employment Opportunity poster.
Cleveland Clinic Health System is pleased to be an equal employment employer: Women / Minorities / Veterans / Individuals with Disabilities