Career paths
From caregiver to care coordinator.
Home care has real room to grow. Here's how caregivers typically move up.
Caregiver / Home Health Aide
Entry point into home care. Help clients with bathing, meals, mobility, companionship, and light housekeeping. No license required in most states, but training helps you get hired faster.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Work under nurse supervision in home care, board & care, and facilities. Requires a state-approved CNA program and passing your state's CNA exam.
Med Tech / Medication Aide
Administer medications in residential care settings. Usually requires CNA experience plus a medication administration course.
Scheduler / Care Coordinator
Match caregivers with clients, handle call-offs, and keep shifts filled. Great path for caregivers who know the field and want office hours.
Get started
New to home care? Start here.
- 1Decide if you want caregiver, CNA, or office work
- 2Get CPR/First Aid certified (often required before day one)
- 3Apply to home care jobs on our board
- 4Prepare for a background check, TB test, and DMV record
- 5Show up on time, be reliable, and build your reputation
Pay guide
What caregivers earn in 2025
Ranges are based on public job postings and agency conversations. Pay varies by city, experience, and shift type.
Credentials
What employers actually ask for.
CNA license
Required for CNA roles. 160-hour state-approved program plus your state's nursing aide exam.
Background & health checks
Most employers require a clean background check, TB clearance, and up-to-date immunizations.
Driver's license & reliable car
Many caregiver jobs require driving clients to appointments or running errands.