Personal Care Assistant

Empower U; Chatham (NJ); On-site; USD 26,000 - 30,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly direct deposit

Paid training

Flexible hours

Pathway to full-time roles

Job summary

Empower U is seeking a Personal Care Assistant to provide hands‑on support and companionship to children and young adults with developmental disabilities in home settings across New Jersey. This role emphasizes empathy, dependability, and strong communication with families.

Flexible shifts (after-school, evenings, weekends) with compensation of $19–$22 per hour. Ideal candidates have a high school diploma, CPR, and driving rights; prior experience with developmental disabilities is preferred.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Minimum of 2–3 years’ experience as a Personal Care Assistant.
• At least 6 months experience with children with developmental disabilities.
• CPR certification.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Reliable transportation and willingness to travel within a 10–15 mile radius.
• Working smartphone to access agency HHAX applications.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and support to youth with diverse developmental needs.
• Engage youth in community outings, recreational activities, and social skill development.
• Support daily living activities and help maintain a safe, clean, and supportive environment.
• Offer peer support, positive role modeling, and encouragement.
• Apply problem‑solving, de‑escalation, and critical thinking skills as needed.
• Communicate effectively with families, team members, and supervisors.
• Attend and participate in required trainings, team meetings, and supervision sessions.
• Complete documentation and adhere to all agency policies and procedures.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Teamwork

Flexible schedule

Patience

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Currently enrolled in college or pursuing related degree (Psychology / Social Work / ABA / Special Education)

CNA / Home Health Aide certification (preferred)

Tools

Valid driver’s license

Smartphone with HHAX access

Job description

Personal Care Assistant

Location: Chatham, NJ

Company Name: Empower U.

About Us:

Empower U is a rapidly growing in-home mental health organization dedicated to supporting children and young adults with developmental disabilities. We provide high-quality Respite Services for individuals ages 5–21 during after-school, evening, and weekend hours. Our mission is to empower youth and families through compassionate care, community engagement, and personalized support.

Position Summary:

As a Personal Care Assistant, you will provide hands‑on support, guidance, and companionship to children and young adults with developmental disabilities. This role is ideal for individuals who are motivated, dependable, and passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of families.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide direct care and support to youth with diverse developmental needs.
• Engage youth in community outings, recreational activities, and social skill development.
• Support daily living activities and help maintain a safe, clean, and supportive environment.
• Offer peer support, positive role modeling, and encouragement.
• Apply problem‑solving, de‑escalation, and critical thinking skills as needed.
• Communicate effectively with families, team members, and supervisors.
• Attend and participate in required trainings, team meetings, and supervision sessions.
• Complete documentation and adhere to all agency policies and procedures.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum of 2–3 years’ experience as a Personal Care Assistant
• At least 6 months’ experience working with children with developmental disabilities
• CPR certification
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
• Reliable transportation and willingness to travel within a 10–15 mile radius
• Working smartphone to access agency HHAX applications

Preferred:

• CNA, PCA, or Home Health Aide certification
• Experience working with children or individuals with disabilities (2 Years+*)
• Passion for caregiving & community support
• Reliable transportation within NJ
• Background check & clearances required

• Current college student or degree in Psychology, Social Work, Applied Behavior Analysis, Special Education, or related field
• Experience as a Home Health Aide
• Fluency in a second language

Additional Skills:

• Flexible availability (after‑school, evenings, weekends, or daytime hours as scheduled)
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple responsibilities
• Compassion, patience, and dedication to serving youth and families

Schedule:

Flexible: Weeknights, weekends, or daytime hours depending on family needs and agreed‑upon schedule.

Location:

Ocean County, Monmouth County, New Jersey (In‑Person)

Compensation:

$19.00 – $22.00 per hour

Respite Settings:

One‑on‑One Respite:

• In‑home support for individual children
• Provide caregivers needed break
• Build meaningful bonds with families
• Flexible scheduling around your life

Weekend Groups:

• Saturday & Sunday group sessions
• Structured recreational activities
• Supervised community outings
• Team‑based, collaborative environment

After School Centers:

• Weekday afternoon programming
• Homework help & enrichment activities
• Safe, supportive environment
• Consistent, predictable schedule

Why join our respite team:

• Competitive pay with weekly direct deposit
• Flexible hours - choose shifts that work for you
• Paid training & ongoing professional development
• Supportive supervision & mentorship
• Mission‑driven, minority‑owned organization
• Pathway to full‑time roles across Empower U
• Positions available throughout New Jersey