We are hiring!

Job Title: Community Health Advocate ("Study Buddy")

Organization: Diverse Research Now (DRN)

Employment Type: Part-Time

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Location: Community-Based 

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1. San Diego, CA

2. Houston, TX

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Reports To: Program Manager, Community Engagement

Travel Required: Yes (Local in San Diego, CA or Houston, TX areas)

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Organization Overview

 

Diverse Research Now (DRN) is a nonprofit organization committed to advancing health equity by increasing access to, understanding of, and participation in healthcare and clinical research among historically underrepresented and underserved communities. DRN partners with community members, healthcare providers, research institutions, and national organizations to build trust, reduce barriers, and ensure research and care reflect the populations most impacted by disease.

 

DRN collaborates with the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) to support community-centered initiatives that improve outcomes for individuals affected by multiple myeloma. Through education, advocacy, and community navigation, DRN works to ensure research and healthcare systems are more inclusive, accessible, and responsive to community needs.

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Position Summary

 

The Community Health Advocate (CHA), also referred to as a Study Buddy, is a part-time, community-based role responsible for providing one-on-one support to participants navigating healthcare and research participation. Community Health Advocates serve as trusted guides who accompany participants to healthcare visits, help them understand medical and research information, and provide emotional and practical support.

 

This role supports DRN’s Study Buddy Program and Safe Space Program, with a focus on reducing barriers, addressing mental and emotional well-being, and strengthening informal support systems for individuals impacted by multiple myeloma and other chronic conditions.

 

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Key Responsibilities

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• Serve as a Study Buddy by providing individualized, participant-centered support

• Attend healthcare visits with participants, including clinical trial visits and routine medical appointments

• Support participants in understanding medical information, research protocols, consent processes, and next steps

• Collaborate with DRN program staff to match participants with appropriate advocacy support

• Participate in Safe Space conversations to support emotional and mental well-being

• Identify and help address barriers to care, including transportation, communication, and system navigation

• Connect participants to community-based resources as needed

• Maintain accurate documentation of participant interactions and activities

• Communicate regularly with DRN staff and participate in required trainings and meetings

• Support culturally responsive outreach, including engagement with Hispanic/Latino communities

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(Spanish-speaking advocates strongly encouraged)

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Required Qualifications

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• High school diploma or equivalent required

• Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in community health, caregiving, patient navigation, advocacy, or a related field

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills

• Ability to maintain participant confidentiality and professional boundaries

• Comfort supporting individuals during healthcare and medical visits

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a community-based environment

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required

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Preferred Qualifications

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• Bachelor’s degree in public health, social work, health sciences, or related field

• Experience working with underserved or underrepresented communities

• Familiarity with clinical research, healthcare systems, or patient advocacy

• Bilingual or multilingual skills, particularly Spanish

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Work Schedule & Conditions

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• Part-time, flexible hours based on participant needs

• Community-based work with local travel required

• Occasional evening or weekend availability may be required

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Compensation

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• Hourly rate commensurate with experience

• Mileage reimbursement available for participant-related travel

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Equal Opportunity Statement

 

Diverse Research Now is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at all levels of the organization. We strongly encourage individuals from communities historically underrepresented in healthcare and research to apply.

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How to Apply

 

Interested candidates should email info@diverseresearchnow.com and submit:

• A resume

• A brief statement of interest outlining relevant experience and connection to community advocacy

 

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis