A Personal Support Worker in Oregon provides compassionate, hands-on care to individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions, helping them live independently in their homes and communities. Personal Support Workers build trusting relationships and work closely with families and case managers to promote comfort, safety, and dignity. This role is ideal for someone who is caring, dependable, and dedicated to making a positive impact in others’ lives.
Who Is This Role a Good Fit For?
This role is a great fit for someone who is compassionate, patient, and enjoys helping others live with dignity and independence. It’s especially well-suited for individuals who are dependable, flexible, and comfortable working one-on-one in a home or community setting.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist individuals with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting
- Support clients with mobility, transfers, and use of assistive devices
- Prepare meals and assist with feeding according to dietary needs
- Provide companionship and encourage social and community engagement
- Perform light housekeeping tasks to maintain a safe and clean environment
- Follow individualized support plans and document care activities
- Monitor and report changes in client condition or behavior to supervisors or case managers
- Ensure client safety, dignity, and independence at all times
- Comply with state guidelines, confidentiality laws, and safety protocols
Opportunities for Advancement
Many Personal Support Workers choose to grow their careers through further certification and training. From here, you can move into roles like:
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Personal Care Attendant
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Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
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
$15-$19/hr
Depending on experience and location.
Personal Support Workers represented by SEIU 503 receive union-negotiated wages, benefits, and job protections.
Skills and Qualities
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Empathetic and patient
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Dependable and trustworthy
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Good communicator
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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 retail, food service, customer support, childcare, 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 or another approved provider
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Pass an assessment through the OHCC (Oregon Home Care Commission)
Training is fully covered for eligible workers and includes hands-on skills, CPR/First Aid, and important health and safety practices.
