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Health Navigator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Health Navigator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$24.04 - $25/hr

The Health Navigator serves as the primary care manager for individuals and families who need services. They facilitate the initial introduction to the organization's services and maintain ongoing ...

Health Navigator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$24.04 - $25/hr

Health Navigator-Family (South Bay) Position Summary: The Health Navigator serves as the primary care manager for individuals and families who need services. They facilitate the initial introduction ...

Health Navigator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$24.04 - $25/hr

The Health Navigator serves as the primary care manager for individuals and families who need services. They facilitate the initial introduction to the organization's services and maintain ongoing ...

Health Navigator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$24.04/hr

The Health Navigator serves as the primary care manager for individuals and families who need services. They facilitate the initial introduction to the organization's services and maintain ongoing ...

Health Navigator

Oakland, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

The Health Navigator will support clinical staff through the completion of components of case management and disease management programs. The role of the Navigator will be to focus on care ...

The Health Navigator will support clinical staff through the completion of components of case management and disease management programs. The role of the Navigator will be to focus on care ...

The Health Navigator reports to CHPLA's Assistant Director of HCS. This position will be responsible for outreaching, identifying, and linking clients to supportive services including but not limited ...

The Health Navigator reports to CHPLA's Assistant Director of HCS. This position will be responsible for outreaching, identifying, and linking clients to supportive services including but not limited ...

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Showing results 1-20

Health Navigator information

See California salary details

$13

$22

$33

How much do health navigator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for health navigator in California is $22.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a health navigator?

Health Navigators are professionals who help patients understand the healthcare system and access the services they need. They assist individuals in coordinating medical appointments, understanding their treatment options, and overcoming barriers such as insurance or transportation issues. Health Navigators often work with people who have complex health needs, helping them communicate with providers and make informed decisions about their care. Their goal is to improve patient outcomes by ensuring timely and effective use of healthcare resources.

What are some common challenges health navigators face when supporting patients through the healthcare system?

Health Navigators often encounter challenges such as helping patients understand complex medical information, addressing barriers like transportation or insurance issues, and coordinating care among multiple providers. Navigators need strong communication and problem-solving skills to build trust with patients and ensure they follow through with care plans. Additionally, they frequently collaborate with social workers, clinicians, and community organizations to connect patients to necessary resources and support, making adaptability and teamwork essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a health navigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Health Navigator, you need a background in health sciences, patient advocacy, and a strong understanding of healthcare systems, often supported by a relevant degree or certification such as Certified Health Navigator. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), case management software, and healthcare compliance regulations is typical. Exceptional communication, cultural competence, and problem-solving skills help Health Navigators effectively guide patients through complex care processes. These abilities are crucial for ensuring patients receive appropriate care, reducing barriers, and improving overall health outcomes.

What is the difference between Health Navigator vs Medical Assistant?

AspectHealth NavigatorMedical Assistant
CredentialsMay require certifications like Certified Health Navigator or similarCertified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
Work EnvironmentCommunity health settings, clinics, telehealthHospitals, clinics, outpatient facilities
Employer & IndustryHealthcare providers, community organizationsHospitals, medical offices, clinics
Primary RoleAssist patients with navigating healthcare systems, providing health educationPerform clinical tasks, prepare patients, assist healthcare providers

While both roles support patient care, Health Navigators focus on guiding patients through healthcare systems and providing education, often in community or telehealth settings. Medical Assistants perform clinical and administrative tasks directly in healthcare facilities. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Do you need a degree to be a health navigator?

A degree is not always required to become a health navigator, but relevant certifications, such as patient navigation or health education credentials, can improve job prospects. Many employers value experience, communication skills, and knowledge of healthcare systems over formal degrees.

What are popular job titles related to Health Navigator jobs in California?

For Health Navigator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Health Navigator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Health Navigator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Health Navigator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Health Navigator job openings:

Infographic showing various Health Navigator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,041 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

$24.04 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Health Navigator-Family (South Bay)
Position Summary:
The Health Navigator serves as the primary care manager for individuals and families who need services. They facilitate the initial introduction to the organization's services and maintain ongoing contact with each assigned participant.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Develop rapport and relationships that foster trust to ensure participants feel comfortable and safe.
  • Provide face-to-face visits and make outreach calls to the participant based on their needs.
  • Perform comprehensive barrier assessment to address barriers such as: psychosocial health, criminal history, physical health, probation/parole status, mental health, job-readiness/competency, substance use, DMV issues, family/support system, child support orders, custody matters, housing, tax issues, access to food, clothing and hygiene items, civil restitution orders, and access to healthcare services.
  • Assist participants in enrolling in public benefit programs (Medi-Cal, CalFresh, CalWorks, etc.), medical and social services.
  • Provide health coaching (glucometer training, etc).
  • Support medical providers and clinical staff as needed in daily clinic operations.
  • Complete all required documentation and reports in a timely fashion and in the manner required by program contracts.
  • Participate in staff meetings, supervision, agency meetings and staff trainings.
  • Help keep site clean and safe at all times.

Requirements
Competencies
  • Bachelor's degree with minimum 3 years' experience working in social services functions OR
  • Associate degree in related fields with 4 years' experience working in social services.
  • Experience working in non-profit organization or community clinic preferred.
  • Solid organizational skills including attention to detail and multi-tasking.
  • Ability to manage time efficiently.
  • Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
  • Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds.
  • Valid California Driver License with safe driving record.
  • Ability to work on site up to full-time.

Roots Community Health Center is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and values diversity of culture, thought and lived experiences. We seek talented, qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, conviction history, uniform service membership/veteran status, physical or mental disability, protected medical conditions, genetic characteristics, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression regardless of physical gender, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws. Roots uses E-Verify to validate the eligibility of our new employees to work legally in the United States.
Salary Description
$24.04-25.00