Pima County·Tucson, Arizona
Provide peer support, guidance, and education to individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders to help them access behavioral health services. Lead community outreach efforts and collaborate with multisectoral partners to reduce overdose risks and improve system-level care.
Job Description: SUMMARY
Department - Health
Job Type: Classified
5789 - Public Health Navigator
Salary Grade: 6
$21.76 - $25.56 Per Hour
$21.76 - $29.36 Per Hour
This is a grant-Funded position ending august 2028.
The first review of applications will be on 04/03/2026.
The Pima County Health Department is looking for a compassionate and motivated Peer Navigator to make a real difference in the lives of individuals impacted by substance use disorders. In this role, you’ll provide peer support, guidance, and education to help individuals and families at high risk for overdose access behavioral health services, community resources, and recovery tools. You’ll also lead community outreach and education efforts, increasing awareness of overdose prevention strategies and connecting people to the care they need.
Working closely with a network of partners, including crisis services, outpatient providers, housing programs, first responders, and the justice system you’ll have the opportunity to advocate for clients, help shape systems-level improvements, and develop safety plans that reduce risk. This position offers a unique chance to combine hands-on peer support with community engagement and program coordination. The role operates within the Community Mental Health Addiction Division (CMHA) and reports to a Public Health Program Coordinator. If you are empathetic, resilient, and passionate about helping others, this is your opportunity to create meaningful impact in Pima County.
As defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, this classification may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills, and other characteristics. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by incumbents of this class. Work assignments may vary depending on the department’s need and will be communicated to the applicant or incumbent by the supervisor.
Works with participants to set healthcare goals and collaborates with care teams to achieve goals;
Maintains written and/or electronic client records documenting client history, vital information, and services provided to program participants;
Makes presentations to community interest groups on program-related topics;
Assists public health professionals from the department and from the community in health navigation and reducing disparities in the community;
Refers to internal or external case management services when other issues are identified (i.e., hunger issues, domestic violence issues, etc.);
Acts as a department representative and subject matter expert to assigned program(s);
Develops and maintains effective working relationships and coordinates program activities with various stakeholders;
Assists with program reports as required by Program Manager or funders;
Assists with the development and dissemination of public information specific to assigned programs;
Assists in program evaluation activities such as conducting surveys, facilitating focus groups, hosting stakeholder meetings, and gathering data;
Communicates and effectively interacts with people of diverse and complex cultures.
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in healthcare administration, public health, public or business administration or a related field as determined by the department head at the time of recruitment AND one year of experience providing administrative support for a program or specialized work unit.
(Relevant experience and/or education from an accredited college or university may be substituted.)
OR:
Three years of experience with Pima County in a Public Health Program Specialist, Community Health Worker, Health Educator I or II, or other closely-related role as determined by the department head at the time of recruitment.
Qualifying education and experience must be clearly documented in the "Education" and "Work Experience" sections of the application. Do not substitute a resume for your application or write "see resume" on your application.
Pima County Human Resources Department reserves the right to admit to the selection process only those candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. All applications will be assessed based on an evaluation of the listed education and experience. Candidates meeting the minimum qualifications may be further evaluated/scored against any advertised Preferred Qualifications. The hiring authority will interview and select the successful candidate from a referral list provided by Human Resources. Additional assessments/testing may be required as part of the selection process.
Valid driver license is required at time of application. Valid AZ driver license is required at time of appointment. The successful applicant will be subject to a 39-month DOT Motor Vehicle Record review to determine applicant’s suitability to operate county vehicles in accordance with Pima County administrative procedures. Failure to obtain and maintain the required licenses and certifications shall be grounds for termination. Any offer of employment resulting from this recruitment is contingent upon Fleet Services’ review and approval of the candidate’s driving record.
Department of Labor Regulation CFR Part 1910.1030 requires notification that this classification may have a high risk of exposure to blood borne pathogens and other communicable diseases. In accordance with OSHA and Pima County guidelines, tuberculin (TB) screening, hepatitis B vaccinations and safety training and equipment will be provided. Some positions may require fluency in English and a second language, as determined by the department head. The County requires pre-employment background checks. Successful candidates will receive a post-offer, pre-employment background screening to include verification of work history, education, and criminal conviction history. A prior criminal conviction will not automatically disqualify a candidate from employment with the County.
Frequently operates a computer and office equipment in an office setting and/or clinic. Constantly observes details at close range. Occasionally stationary at a desk. Frequently moves about inside an office and/or clinic setting. Frequently participates in external events and/or mobile sites.
The Public Health Navigator operates within an office and/or clinic setting and may frequently work out in the community at events and mobile sites. Regular, daily attendance is an essential function for this position, however, is eligible for alternative work schedules if deemed appropriate by the division leadership and program scheduling needs.
Pima County Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to an inclusive and diverse workforce and will not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, kinship, political interest, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Market context
Behavioral health employers in Arizona often look for candidates who can connect directly with clients through lived experience and strong community-based support skills. These roles can be competitive because they may require a high school diploma, a preferred bachelor’s degree, and quick completion of Peer Support Certification, along with a valid Arizona driver’s license and fingerprint clearance. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your certification timeline and clearance readiness before applying.
