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If you’ve Googled “Patient Navigator job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over again: bullet points, vague language, and zero insight into what makes a great hire. Most of these templates aren’t written to attract the kind of person you actually want on your team—they just check boxes.
But here’s the truth: a Patient Navigator isn’t just someone who manages appointments or explains paperwork. They’re often the first human connection a patient makes after a diagnosis. They listen. They guide. They calm fears. And they help people navigate one of the most emotionally charged moments of their lives.
So if your job post reads like a checklist, you’re missing the mark—and likely missing the best candidates too.
That’s why this article does things differently.
Instead of dumping a generic template, we’ll walk you through how to write a job post that attracts the right person—someone with emotional intelligence, attention to detail, and a deep sense of care. You’ll also get two ready-to-use templates (one for experienced candidates, one for those you’re willing to train), a breakdown of why they work, an example of a bad post, advanced writing tips, and smart ways to use AI without sounding like a robot.
👉 Recommended Reading: Before you continue, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ — it’ll show you why most job descriptions fail and how to fix yours for good.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
What Does a Patient Navigator Actually Do?
A Patient Navigator is more than just a scheduler or support rep—they’re a guide. They help patients understand the healthcare system, explain next steps after a diagnosis, and coordinate care so patients don’t feel lost or overwhelmed.
In many cases, they’re the emotional anchor during a difficult time.
They talk to patients, clarify confusing information, answer questions, help with insurance or referrals, and make sure no one falls through the cracks. Whether working in a hospital, clinic, or nonprofit, they’re the link between patients and the care they need.
That’s why hiring the right Patient Navigator is so important. You’re not just looking for someone with healthcare knowledge—you need someone who’s empathetic, organized, emotionally intelligent, and excellent at communication. Because the best Patient Navigators don’t just follow up—they follow through.
Two Great Patient Navigator Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1:Job Description For Experienced Patient Navigators
Job Title:
Patient Navigator for Harmony Health Network – Help Patients Navigate Their Care with Confidence and Compassion
Job Type:
Full-Time | In-Person | $48,000–$56,000/year | Location: Durham, NC
🎥 Meet Your Future Team:
Watch this short 1-minute video from our Care Coordination Lead explaining what we’re looking for and what it’s like to work with us:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link Here]
Who We Are
At Harmony Health Network, we believe healthcare should be compassionate, coordinated, and human. We’re a nonprofit community health organization serving the Durham area with primary care, cancer services, mental health programs, and social support resources—all under one roof.
Our mission is simple: to help patients feel seen, supported, and guided throughout their care journey. As our services expand, we’re looking for an experienced Patient Navigator to join our team and be a trusted guide for patients navigating complex diagnoses and treatment plans.
What You’ll Be Doing
In this role, you’ll be the go-to person who ensures no patient falls through the cracks. You will:
- Support patients from diagnosis through treatment and follow-up
- Help them understand care plans, appointments, and treatment options
- Coordinate with providers, clinics, and insurance for seamless support
- Monitor patient progress and ensure timely follow-ups
- Advocate for patient needs with clarity and compassion
- Maintain accurate notes and updates using our EHR system
What We’re Looking For
- 2+ years in care coordination, social work, or patient advocacy
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Highly organized and able to juggle multiple cases
- Familiarity with medical records systems (EHR)
- Bachelor’s degree in Health Admin, Nursing, Social Work, or related field preferred
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
If you’re someone who takes pride in making people feel calm and supported in difficult moments, this is your role. You’ll have a direct impact on patient outcomes—and the gratitude of those you help every day. You won’t just be part of the process—you’ll be the reason patients feel safe moving forward.
Perks and Benefits
- $48,000–$56,000/year based on experience
- Full health, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with employer match
- 3 weeks paid vacation + 10 paid holidays
- Wellness stipend and EAP program
- Paid training and certification opportunities
How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords.
Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
✅ Option 2: Job Description For Entry-Level Candidates (Willing to Train)
Job Title:
Entry-Level Patient Navigator – Join Harmony Health and Make a Difference Every Day
Job Type:
Full-Time | Training Provided | $38,000–$42,000/year | Location: Durham, NC
🎥 Watch Before You Apply:
Here’s a quick video from our Director of Community Care explaining how we train and support new Patient Navigators:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link Here]
Who We Are
Harmony Health Network is a nonprofit clinic serving the Durham community with integrated physical and mental healthcare. We believe that no one should feel overwhelmed when trying to get the care they need. That’s why our patient navigation team exists—to be a calming, informed voice that guides people through treatment with dignity and care.
We’re hiring for heart, not just experience. If you’ve got the empathy, drive, and communication skills to support others—we’ll train you to become a highly effective Patient Navigator.
What You’ll Be Doing
We’ll guide you through onboarding and mentorship to help you:
- Help patients understand their treatment options and next steps
- Support patients with appointment scheduling and follow-ups
- Collaborate with nurses, doctors, and specialists to coordinate care
- Follow up to make sure patients never feel forgotten
- Keep accurate case notes using our health record systems
What We’re Looking For
- Excellent people skills—you’re compassionate, patient, and a good listener
- Highly organized and proactive in communication
- Eager to learn and grow within the healthcare space
- Comfortable with tech and quick to pick up new systems
- No prior experience required—but any background in caregiving, admin, or service is a plus
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You’ll be doing meaningful work that directly improves people’s lives—and we’ll give you the support, training, and mentorship to grow. Whether you’re starting a new career or looking to pivot into healthcare, this is a role where your heart, work ethic, and personality matter most.
Perks and Benefits
- $38,000–$42,000/year starting salary
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Tuition reimbursement for career-related education
- Paid time off (3 weeks) + 9 paid holidays
- Flexible scheduling and paid training
- Access to wellness and mental health resources
How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords.
Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Why These Patient Navigator Job Posts Actually Work
Let’s break down what makes these two job descriptions effective—whether you’re hiring an experienced professional or someone you’re willing to train:
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Purpose-Driven
Instead of just saying “Patient Navigator,” the titles highlight the location, mission, or training opportunity:
- “Patient Navigator for Harmony Health Network – Help Patients Navigate Their Care with Confidence and Compassion”
- “Entry-Level Patient Navigator – Join Harmony Health and Make a Difference Every Day”
These titles speak directly to the type of person you want—those who care about the work, not just the title.
✅ 2. They Start with a Video Introduction
Including a short video from a hiring manager or care team leader adds a personal, human touch. It builds trust before the applicant even starts reading and helps your job post stand out in a sea of plain-text listings.
✅ 3. The “About Us” Section Feels Real and Specific
Instead of copy-paste corporate boilerplate, each post introduces Harmony Health Network in a way that’s authentic and mission-driven. Readers instantly understand:
- What the organization stands for
- Who they serve
- Why this role matters to the team and the community
✅ 4. Responsibilities Are Explained Through a Human Lens
Rather than listing tasks robotically, the duties are framed around impact. For example:
“Support patients from diagnosis through treatment and follow-up”
“Make sure no one falls through the cracks”
This kind of language helps candidates connect emotionally to the role and visualize the work.
✅ 5. Requirements Are Tailored, Not Rigid
- For experienced roles, clear expectations are set.
- For entry-level roles, the message is welcoming: “We’ll train you.”
- By listing “nice to have” skills rather than strict must-haves, you avoid scaring off strong candidates who just need a chance.
✅ 6. “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section Speaks Directly to Motivation
Instead of a bland “you’ll be working with a dynamic team,” the section calls out meaningful reasons to apply:
- Impact
- Growth
- Ownership
- Feeling valued
These are the motivators that great candidates care about most.
✅ 7. Perks and Benefits Are Listed Separately and Transparently
Salary is listed upfront. Health, dental, PTO, and professional development perks are clearly outlined. This builds trust and reduces guesswork—helping you attract serious, committed applicants.
✅ 8. The Application Process Respects the Candidate
Each post explains that WorkScreen is being used—not just to evaluate resumes, but to give applicants a fair, skill-based shot. That alone signals professionalism, fairness, and transparency—qualities high-quality applicants respect.
✅ 9. The Tone Is Human, Not Robotic
Everything—from the job intro to the call to action—feels like it was written by a real person. That’s what makes people want to apply. The posts avoid jargon and speak directly to the kind of people you want to attract: warm, motivated, emotionally intelligent humans.
Bad Patient Navigator Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)
Job Title:
Patient Navigator
Job Type:
Full-Time
Location:
Durham, NC
Job Summary:
We are seeking a qualified Patient Navigator to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for assisting patients with care coordination, scheduling, and answering questions about medical services. The Patient Navigator will liaise with doctors and nurses to ensure patients receive quality care.
Responsibilities:
- Manage patient inquiries and scheduling
- Assist with referrals and follow-ups
- Coordinate with healthcare providers
- Provide basic patient education and guidance
- Maintain documentation
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree required
- 2–3 years of experience in a similar role
- Strong organizational and communication skills
How to Apply:
Please email your resume and cover letter to hr@healthgroup.org. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🛑 Why This Job Post Fails to Attract the Right Candidates
1. The Title Is Vague and Lifeless
It simply says “Patient Navigator” without offering any context, mission, or hook. There’s no emotional pull or reason for the right candidate to click.
2. The Introduction Is Cold and Robotic
It jumps straight into a generic summary with phrases like “qualified candidate” and “responsible for.” There’s no mission, no voice, and no attempt to inspire interest or trust.
3. No Insight Into the Company or Its Culture
There’s nothing about who the company is, why the role matters, or what it’s like to work there. Candidates can’t tell if this is a clinic, nonprofit, hospital, or private practice.
4. No Mention of Salary, Benefits, or Flexibility
The post skips all compensation details, which sends the wrong signal. In today’s job market, serious applicants want transparency up front—especially in healthcare, where burnout is common and benefits matter.
5. Responsibilities Are Broad and Uninspired
The tasks listed are vague and interchangeable. Phrases like “assist with referrals” and “maintain documentation” say nothing about the impact or emotional reality of the job.
6. The Hiring Process Feels Cold and Dismissive
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is one of the coldest lines you can put in a job post. It implies that applicants are disposable and leaves people unsure of what happens next.
7. No Personality, No Purpose, No Trust
There’s no warmth. No storytelling. No video. No sense of what the team is like. A great candidate looking to make a difference will scroll right past this—and apply to someone who cares more.
By showing this contrast, you help hiring managers understand that it’s not just what you post—it’s how you post it. Job descriptions are brand signals. If yours feels cold and generic, that’s the kind of response you’ll get.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out
Once you’ve written a clear, human, and motivating job post, you can take it to the next level with these smart, low-effort additions:
✅ 1. Add an “IMPORTANT NOTICE” to Build Trust
With online scams on the rise, a simple security message shows that your company values applicant safety. You can add something like:
IMPORTANT NOTICE: We take your privacy seriously. We will never ask for payment, banking information, or personal financial details at any point in the hiring process.
This helps reassure applicants that your job post is legitimate—especially in healthcare, where trust is everything.
✅ 2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Don’t wait until the offer stage to talk about time off. Candidates want to know that you value work-life balance. Include something like:
Enjoy up to 3 weeks paid vacation, 10+ holidays, and flexible scheduling options—because your wellbeing matters, too.
Even a small benefits mention like this can be a deciding factor for someone comparing multiple offers.
✅ 3. Highlight Training or Growth Opportunities
Especially for entry-level roles or mission-driven candidates, growth matters just as much as compensation. Add a line like:
We invest in our team with paid training, mentorship, and growth paths into care coordination and leadership roles.
This positions your company as a long-term career home—not just a paycheck.
✅ 4. Add a Video Message from the Hiring Manager
Job posts with a human face convert better. A 1-minute Loom or YouTube video from the hiring manager or team lead builds trust, adds personality, and helps you stand out instantly.
Not sure what to say in the video? Here’s a simple script:
“Hi, I’m [Name], and I lead the Care Navigation Team here at Harmony Health. In this role, you’ll be supporting patients during one of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. We’re looking for someone who’s organized, compassionate, and truly cares about making healthcare more human. If that sounds like you, I’d love for you to apply.”
Upload it. Link it in your job post. Watch your applications improve.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
Should You Use AI to Write Job Descriptions?
AI can save you time—but if you use it wrong, it can cost you great candidates.
Today, most “1-click job description generators” spit out robotic, soulless content filled with corporate clichés and copy-paste buzzwords. It might look polished, but it rarely connects with the kind of mission-driven, emotionally intelligent person you’re hoping to hire—especially in roles like Patient Navigator, where empathy and trust are everything.
❌ The Wrong Way to Use AI
“Write me a Patient Navigator job description.”
If you type this into ChatGPT or use a one-click generator, you’ll likely get something bland and forgettable. It’ll be grammatically correct—but emotionally empty. And that’s exactly the type of post that gets scrolled past by serious applicants.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI
Instead of asking AI to do everything, use it as a smart assistant that shapes and improves your own raw material.
Here’s how to do it well:
🧠 Give context before you prompt. Include:
- What your company does
- The tone you want (e.g. human, supportive, conversational)
- Who the role serves (e.g. patients, care teams, families)
- What traits matter most (e.g. empathy, follow-through, communication)
💬 Example Prompt:
“Help me write a job post for our company, Harmony Health Network. We’re hiring a Patient Navigator to guide patients through their care journey—from diagnosis to follow-up. Our ideal candidate is empathetic, proactive, and detail-oriented. Our tone should be warm, human, and mission-driven. We offer full benefits, flexible scheduling, and mentorship. Here are some rough notes I’ve written to get you started…”
Then paste your notes.
Let the AI refine tone, tighten structure, and clean up grammar. But you bring the voice. You bring the mission. You bring the meaning.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Job Description Template
Job Title:
Patient Navigator – Help Us Guide Patients with Empathy and Clarity
Job Type:
Full-Time | [In-Person/Hybrid] | [Salary Range] | Location: [City, State]
🎥 Watch This First:
Check out this short video from our team leader to get a feel for what it’s like to work here:
👉 [Insert Video Link]
About [Company Name]
At [Company Name], we help patients feel seen, supported, and never alone in their care journey. Whether they’re facing a new diagnosis, navigating appointments, or managing follow-ups, we’re there to guide them with warmth and clarity. We’re now looking for a Patient Navigator to join our team and be that steady, informed voice patients can trust.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Support patients from diagnosis through recovery
- Coordinate appointments, referrals, and follow-ups
- Explain care plans, paperwork, and next steps
- Collaborate with providers, nurses, and social workers
- Track patient progress and maintain documentation
What We’re Looking For
- Strong communication and people skills
- Highly organized and proactive
- Comfortable with basic digital tools (like EHRs)
- [Experience required or not—add your preference here]
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You’ll be part of a team that values compassion over credentials, and real impact over red tape. Every day you’ll make a difference in someone’s life—by helping them feel less lost and more supported.
Perks and Benefits
- [Salary Range]
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and flexible scheduling
- Ongoing training and mentorship
- A close-knit, mission-driven team that truly cares
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to keep our hiring process fair and efficient. No long applications—just a short evaluation focused on your real strengths.
👉 Apply here: [Insert WorkScreen Link]
✅ Option 2: Traditional Format – Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements
Job Title:
Patient Navigator
Job Type:
Full-Time | [In-Person/Hybrid] | [Salary Range] | Location: [City, State]
Job Brief
[Company Name] is seeking a Patient Navigator to help coordinate care for patients, guide them through treatment plans, and ensure no one gets left behind in the process. This role is ideal for someone who is empathetic, detail-oriented, and passionate about improving patient outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
- Guide patients through appointments, treatment, and follow-up
- Coordinate referrals, paperwork, and insurance details
- Serve as the main point of contact for care-related questions
- Work with clinical staff to ensure smooth communication
- Maintain accurate records and status updates
Requirements
- [Insert years of experience OR “Willing to train the right candidate”]
- Excellent communication skills
- Strong organizational ability
- Familiarity with healthcare systems or EHRs a plus
- Bachelor’s degree in related field preferred (but not required)
Compensation and Benefits
- [Insert Salary Range]
- Health, dental, and vision coverage
- PTO, paid holidays, and wellness stipend
- Professional development support
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to ensure a fair, skill-based hiring process.
Click below to start your application:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step of Hiring
Writing a great job post is the first step. But once the applications start coming in, the real challenge begins:
- How do you know who’s actually qualified?
- How do you avoid spending hours reviewing low-effort or AI-generated applications?
- How do you make sure the best people don’t slip through the cracks?
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
WorkScreen helps you:
🧠 Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
🧪 Easily administer one-click skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
🧹 Eliminate low-effort applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
🛡️ Reduce hiring risk
Hiring the wrong person isn’t just frustrating—it’s expensive. With WorkScreen, you make data-informed decisions that reduce second-guessing and prevent costly mistakes.
Ready to streamline your hiring process?
FAQ
Look for a mix of soft skills and operational abilities:
- Empathy – They’ll often be helping people at vulnerable moments.
- Clear communication – They must translate medical language into plain English.
- Follow-through – A strong Patient Navigator ensures no patient is forgotten or left confused.
- Cultural sensitivity – Navigators work with diverse populations and need to build trust across backgrounds.
- Organization and time management – They coordinate appointments, referrals, and paperwork.
- Basic tech skills – Comfort with EHR systems and online scheduling tools is often essential.
Bonus: If they have prior experience in social work, health education, case management, or even customer service—that’s a plus.
As of 2025, the average salary for a Patient Navigator in the U.S. ranges from $45,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and type of employer (nonprofit, hospital, private practice, etc.).
Entry-level roles with training start around $38,000–$42,000, while experienced navigators, especially those in oncology or specialty clinics, can earn up to $70,000 or more.
Both roles support patients, but there’s a key distinction:
- Patient Navigators focus on removing barriers to care—helping patients understand their diagnosis, schedule appointments, manage logistics, and stay informed throughout their journey.
- Case Managers are often more clinical, managing long-term treatment plans, insurance approvals, discharge planning, and coordination between providers.
In short: Navigators are guides. Case Managers are planners.
