HEALTH EDUCATOR I

DEFINITION

This is entry-level professional work for the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services in developing and coordinating public health education and health promotion activities.

This description may not include all of the duties, knowledge, skills or abilities associated with this classification.

EXAMPLES OF WORK

Assists in the development and implementation of health education, behavioral risk reduction, and health promotion programs for schools, worksites, communities, and individuals; provides health intervention strategies that meet specified and measurable objectives.

Collects, analyzes and disseminates information regarding major health problems, behavioral risk factors, and health attitudes and knowledge, using epidemiological procedures; assists in the formulation of disease prevention and health promotion strategies.

Develops various educational materials such as brochures, exhibits, videotapes, and slides; employs mass media, group process, and counseling techniques in health education, health promotion, and behavioral risk reduction program activities.

Assists in the formulation of health education plans.

Assists in development of training programs; works with others to plan and implement health promotion programs, policies, and legislation.

Provides technical assistance and training to local health professionals, schools, community organizations, government agencies, businesses, and individuals.

Maintains knowledge and skills in health education and health promotion research through review of professional literature, participation in conferences and continuing education.

Provides assistance regarding the submission of applications for health education, behavioral risk reduction and health promotion program funds; monitors existing programs for compliance with federal and state regulations.

Exercises considerable independence and initiative in the performance of responsibilities; receives general administrative direction.

Performs other related work as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs)

Introductory knowledge of the current principles, practices and processes employed in the health education and health promotion component of a public health program.

Introductory knowledge of the principles, techniques and application of behavioral epidemiology as related to health education and health promotion.

Introductory knowledge of the psychological, social, economic and cultural determinants of behavior and methods to promote healthy lifestyles.

Introductory knowledge of educational methods and techniques of developing and presenting health education to individuals and groups.

Introductory knowledge of community organization principles, resources and community health needs.

Introductory knowledge of current trends and developments in public health, medical sciences and health care.

Introductory knowledge of research methods as applied to health education and health promotion.

Ability to assist in the planning, development, implementation and evaluation of effective health education and health promotion programs for various populations.

Ability to perform statistical computations.

Ability to effectively communicate complex medical information and present ideas effectively to civic and community groups and public officials.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, community groups and the general public.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

(The following requirements will determine merit system eligibility, experience and education ratings, and may be used to evaluate applicants for Missouri Uniform Classification and Pay System positions not requiring selection from merit registers. When practical and possible, the Division of Personnel will accept substitution of experience and education on a year-for-year basis.)

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 24 earned credit hours in Health Education or Health Promotion.

OR

A Master's degree from an accredited college or university in Health Education, Health Promotion, or Public Health with a minimum of 15 earned credit hours in Health Education.

(Minor Revision 5/24/06)