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Health Care Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

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Health Care Assistant information

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How much do health care assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for health care assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $17.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a health care assistant?

Health Care Assistants (HCAs) are support workers who assist nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals in providing care to patients. Their duties often include helping patients with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating, as well as monitoring vital signs and maintaining patient comfort. HCAs can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, care homes, and community health services. They play a crucial role in ensuring patients receive high-quality, compassionate care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a health care assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Health Care Assistant, you need a solid understanding of basic patient care, hygiene practices, and often a relevant certification such as a CNA or NVQ in Health and Social Care. Familiarity with patient lifting equipment, electronic care records, and infection control protocols is typically required. Compassion, patience, and strong communication skills help build trust and provide emotional support to patients and their families. These competencies ensure safe, effective care and contribute to positive patient experiences within healthcare settings.

What are some common challenges health care assistants face, and how can they effectively manage them?

Health Care Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing a high workload, providing emotional support to patients and families, and adapting to rapidly changing situations. Effective time management, clear communication with nursing staff, and maintaining personal resilience are key strategies for managing these demands. Regular training and teamwork can also help HCAs handle difficult situations professionally and maintain high standards of patient care.

What is the difference between Health Care Assistant vs Personal Support Worker?

AspectHealth Care AssistantPersonal Support Worker
CredentialsTypically requires a certificate or diploma in health care assistanceOften requires a similar certification or diploma in personal support or caregiving
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilitiesHome care, community settings, long-term care facilities
Employer & IndustryHospitals, nursing homes, healthcare agenciesHome care agencies, community organizations, nursing homes
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to similar roles in patient and client careFrequently searched together as caregiving roles in health and community services

Both Health Care Assistants and Personal Support Workers provide essential care in healthcare and community settings. While their roles overlap in assisting patients and clients, HCA roles are often more hospital-based, whereas PSWs frequently work in home and community environments. Both roles require similar certifications and are vital in supporting health and well-being.

What qualifications are needed for a health care assistant job?

Health care assistants typically need a relevant qualification such as a Level 2 or Level 3 Health and Social Care diploma or equivalent. Good communication skills, basic first aid knowledge, and the ability to work in a team are also important; some roles may require a criminal background check or specific certifications depending on the setting.

Which health care assistant gets paid the most?

In general, specialized health care assistants such as those working in intensive care units, with advanced certifications, or in private healthcare settings tend to earn higher salaries. Experience, location, and additional skills also influence pay rates for health care assistants. However, salaries vary widely depending on the region and employer.

What are the most commonly searched types of Health Care jobs in Rio Rancho, NM?

The most popular types of Health Care jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What job categories do people searching Health Care Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Health Care Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Health Care Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Health Care Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Health Care Assistant job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,216 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Patient Care Assistant I - Primary Family Medicine

CHRISTUS Health

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


CHRISTUS Health rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 534 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

534th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Summary:
Participates in structured education and training programs, including clinical skills labs, instructor-led and self-paced learning, and required online modules. Provides front office and clinical support by greeting patients, managing registration and scheduling, and facilitating communication between patients and providers. Assists with patient care activities, including documenting in the electronic medical record (EMR), relaying test results, and coordinating follow-up services. Upon successful completion of competencies and under supervision, performs vital signs, collects patient history, and conducts point-of-care testing while maintaining quality control standards.
Responsibilities:
  • Meets expectations of the applicable OneCHRISTUS Competencies: Leader of Self, Leader of Others, or Leader of Leaders.
  • Participates in required education, training programs, and competency validation activities to support clinical and operational readiness.
  • Greets patients in person and via telephone in a professional, courteous, and service-oriented manner.
  • Registers patients accurately by collecting and verifying demographic, insurance, and financial information.
  • Schedules appointments, follow-up visits, diagnostic tests, and referrals in accordance with clinic protocols.
  • Coordinates and communicates patient messages between patients and providers, ensuring timely follow-up.
  • Documents patient interactions, test results, and care activities accurately in the electronic medical record (EMR).
  • Assists patients, nurses, providers, and care team members in delivering patient care within the clinic setting.
  • Obtains and records vital signs in accordance with established clinical guidelines and procedures.
  • Collects and documents patient history related to the chief complaint to support provider evaluation.
  • Performs point-of-care testing under supervision and in accordance with established protocols.
  • Ensures proper quality control, documentation, and compliance for all point-of-care testing performed.
  • Maintains a clean, organized, and safe clinical and administrative environment in accordance with regulatory standards.

Job Requirements:
Education/Skills
• High School Diploma or GED required, or
• In lieu of a High School Diploma or GED, two (2) years of relevant work experience above the minimum qualification
• Enrollment in or recent completion of a healthcare-related program (e.g., Medical Assistant, Nursing Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician)
Experience
• Prior customer service or healthcare experience preferred
• Basic knowledge of clinical workflows and patient care environments preferred
Licenses, Registrations, or Certifications
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association required
• Must obtain certification as a Medical Assistant within one (1) year of hire
In accordance with the CHRISTUS Health License, Certification and Registration Verification Policy, all Associates are required to obtain the required certifications for their respective positions within the designated time frame.
Work Schedule:
MULTIPLE SHIFTS AVAILABLE
Work Type:
Full Time

What CHRISTUS Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About CHRISTUS Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CHRISTUS Health is a prominent name in the healthcare industry, with its headquarters situated in Irving, TX, USA. Established in 1999, the company has since been devoted to providing comprehensive care and extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. This not-for-profit health system primarily operates more than 600 healthcare services and programs, including long-term care facilities, health insurance products, community clinics, and outreach services, serving both urban and rural populations.

Industry

Outpatient health care

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1999