Job Description

The Rural Health Institute of New York (RHI) is an independent nonprofit dedicated to addressing large-scale public health issues and disparities across rural New York. Initially formed as a Cortland County youth prevention coalition, RHI has evolved over 20 years into a public health institute with expertise using collaboration, improved collection, management, and use of data, and evidence-based strategies and health communication to improve community health. Working with counties, cities, non-profits, and service agencies, RHI equips rural New York communities with insights, strategies, resources, and infrastructure that enable them to improve the health of people and families, especially those experiencing the greatest disparities.

We have expanded to approach health more holistically, working on topics related to substance use prevention, harm reduction, vaccines, literacy, mental health, lead, housing and more. Our staff of project managers, full-time MPH-holding epidemiologists, and a full-time graphic designer bring a diverse set of unique skills to

Build tools and systems to help to supplement and build partners' capacity Collect, analyze, and use data to inform priorities and strategies Design custom, place-based health communications materials and strategies based on local data to educate and encourage healthy behaviors Coordinate similar work across agencies or counties, often through collaborative grant applications to ensure that the work is sustainable.
Job Overview:

The Rural Health Institute of New York (RHI) is seeking an Early Childhood Health Project Coordinator to oversee community-based initiatives that prevent lead exposure and promote child health in Cortland County. The Coordinator will collaborate with community partners, coalition members, and local stakeholders to carry out public outreach, coordinate health communication activities, and implement data-driven strategies that address key needs related to lead hazard prevention, early childhood literacy promotion, and other related issues.

Key responsibilities include overseeing coalition activities, developing educational resources, facilitating communications and community outreach, managing data and reporting efforts, and supporting other grant applications and funding efforts, and more. The ideal candidate will be skilled in project management, community engagement, and health communications. 50% of this role is supporting the implementation of aspects of Cortland County's HUD Healthy Homes Grant.

Key Responsibilities:

Coalition Support and Management

Provide logistical support for the Cortland County Lead Task Force and Literacy Coalition meetings, including preparing agendas, minutes, and managing stakeholder communications. Facilitate effective communication and collaboration amongst partner agencies, other stakeholders and with the broader community. Support committee chairs and task force leaders in achieving coalition goals through strategic planning and ongoing program implementation and support.

Community Engagement and Outreach

Engage community stakeholders through educational presentations, outreach events, and public awareness campaigns. Coordinate social media and other content production and website updates to keep the community informed on lead prevention, literacy and other related public health initiatives. Assist in public relations efforts, maintaining positive relationships with media and community members. Prepare written materials, including reports, brochures, flyers, newsletters, and press releases.

Program Development and Implementation

Assist in planning and executing community-based projects focused on reducing lead exposure and promoting early childhood development and literacy promotion Develop and disseminate educational materials and resources Coordinate training and workshops for different target populations related to lead poisoning prevention, literacy promotion, and other related topics Work closely with the Cortland County Health Department and CAPCO to support the HUD Healthy Home Grant deliverables.

Data Management and Reporting

Collect, manage, and share out data for community assessments, project evaluations, and coalition reports. Will works closely with a member of the Data & Epidemiology Team. Support grant writing and reporting to secure additional funding and maintain existing grants for community projects.

Qualifications

Core Program Development and Project Management Skills

Demonstrates a strong capability to manage and develop community-based programs, organize and analyze data, and lead public health literacy and lead prevention projects. This can be demonstrated by: A degree in Public Health, Education, Social Sciences, or related fields. Advanced coursework in public health or community engagement is beneficial. Examples of professional work involving literacy or lead prevention initiatives, public health education, or program management. A combination of formal education and experience in program management or community outreach

Independent and Collaborative Work Experience

Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively. Skilled in engaging external partners and stakeholders to develop and implement effective strategies to improve childhood health. Examples include: Previous experience in a leadership or support role within community health, education, or projects related to literacy promotion or lead prevention. Background in organizing, training, or supporting community members or coalition partners in public health topics or literacy/ lead prevention programs. Skills in grant management demonstrated by experience with grant applications or coursework focused on securing funding for community initiatives.

Public Communication and Outreach Skills

Exhibits strong skills in communicating topics related to childhood health to diverse audiences. Can translate complex information and data into accessible, actionable insights for community members and other stakeholders.

Technical Proficiency

Familiarity with Google Workspace, Canva, social media platforms, and data management tools commonly used in community health or literacy programs. Knowledge of database management, online engagement platforms, or reporting tools is beneficial.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

This position is primarily office-based, with regular use of a computer and other standard office equipment and frequent local travel within Cortland County for meetings, site visits, and community events. The Coordinator must be able to remain seated or standing at a workstation for extended periods, move about the office and community settings, and communicate effectively in person, by phone, and via virtual platforms.

The role involves occasional lifting, carrying, and transporting of outreach materials (such as boxes of books, brochures, folders, banners, or small equipment) typically weighing up to 25 pounds, as well as setting up and taking down tables, displays, and other materials at events. Work will occur in a variety of environments, including offices, schools, community centers, and outdoor event spaces.

The usual schedule is during standard business hours, with occasional evenings or weekends required to support coalition meetings, trainings, or community outreach activities. This position works as part of a small, mission-driven team and requires frequent interaction with community members, partner agencies, and stakeholders.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $62,500.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance
Work Location: In person