Typical Wage Range
$20-$24/hr
Personal Care Attendants receive SEIU 503 union-negotiated wages, benefits, and job protections.
A Personal Care Attendant (PCA) in Oregon provides compassionate, one-on-one support to people with behavioral or mental health needs. They assist with daily living activies in and outside of the home. This role is especially well-suited for individuals who take pride in making a positive impact in someone’s daily life.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist individuals with personal care tasks like bathing, dressing, and grooming
- Perform light housekeeping tasks like laundry, dishes, and tidying up living areas
- Provide medication reminders (not administration, unless certified to do so)
- Offer companionship and encourage social and recreational activities
- Monitor and report changes in client condition or behavior to supervisors or case managers
- Ensure client safety, dignity, and independence
Opportunities for Advancement
Many Personal Care Attendants choose to grow their careers through further certification and training. From here, you can move into roles like:
- Professional Development Certification (PDC)
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Enhanced Certification
- Community Health Worker
Care Pathways helps you map your next step, access free training, and find new opportunities—all with union support along the way.
Typical Wage Range
$20-$24/hr
Personal Care Attendants receive SEIU 503 union-negotiated wages, benefits, and job protections.
Skills and Qualities
- Good communicator
- Organized
- Compassionate
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Comfortable working independently
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Physically capable of light lifting and moving
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Respectful of cultural differences and individual preferences
Transferable Skills
Experience in social work, customer support, retail, or volunteering can translate well. If you’ve worked in a role that required patience, organization, or compassion—you’re already halfway there.
Training and Certification
No formal degree is required. You must:
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Be at least 18 years old
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Pass a background check
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Complete a free training program through Carewell SEIU 503
Training is fully covered for eligible workers and includes hands-on skills and important health and safety practices.