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Respite Worker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Respite Worker

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$16.85/hr

As a Respite Worker you'll provide care, supervision, and companionship to people with developmental disabilities. A typical week might include supporting clients to: play at the park, do homework ...

Caregiver / Respite Worker

Irvine, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Caregiver / Respite Worker Urgent Hiring - Multiple Openings Available 365 Home Care is currently seeking compassionate and dependable Caregivers/Respite Workers to join our team. We have immediate ...

Caregiver/Respite Worker

Torrance, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

A respite caregiver provides a break for primary caregivers of people who need continuous care or monitoring. Role and Responsibilities: Assisting with activities of daily living (ADL) such as ...

Respite Associate

Dublin, CA · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Then we need you! Our respite program needs your talent to work in a caring and supportive ... Role will primarily require working evening and weekend shifts to accommodate our client families ...

A respite caregiver provides a break for primary caregivers of people who need continuous care or monitoring. We serve individuals ages 3 years and above. Role and Responsibilities: Assisting with ...

Respite Associate

Dublin, CA · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Then we need you! Our respite program needs your talent to work in a caring and supportive ... Role will primarily require working evening and weekend shifts to accommodate our client families ...

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Respite Worker information

See California salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do respite worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for respite worker in California is $17.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Respite Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Respite Worker, you need knowledge of caregiving techniques, basic first aid, and experience working with individuals with disabilities or special needs, often supported by relevant certifications such as CPR/First Aid. Familiarity with care plans, documentation systems, and communication tools is typically required. Strong empathy, patience, and effective interpersonal skills help build trust and provide emotional support to clients and their families. These skills ensure safe, compassionate, and reliable care, allowing primary caregivers peace of mind and clients a positive experience.

How to become a respite worker?

To become a respite worker, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may be required to complete training in first aid, CPR, and caregiving skills. Some positions require background checks and relevant experience working with children or individuals with disabilities. Certification requirements vary by region and employer, so checking local regulations and job postings is recommended.

What can respite workers do?

Respite workers provide temporary care and support to individuals with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or special needs, giving their primary caregivers a break. They assist with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and companionship, often working in clients' homes or care facilities. Respite workers may also monitor health conditions and follow care plans, requiring good communication skills and sometimes certification in first aid or CPR.

What is the difference between Respite Worker vs Personal Support Worker?

AspectRespite WorkerPersonal Support Worker
CredentialsOften requires a high school diploma and basic caregiving trainingRequires a diploma or certificate in Personal Support Worker programs
Work EnvironmentProvides temporary relief in clients' homes or care facilitiesProvides ongoing personal care and support in clients' homes or facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by home care agencies, community organizations, and familiesEmployed by healthcare facilities, home care agencies, and private clients

Respite Workers focus on providing temporary relief to primary caregivers, offering short-term support in various settings. Personal Support Workers provide ongoing, hands-on personal care and assistance. While both roles require caregiving skills, Respite Workers typically work on a temporary basis, whereas Personal Support Workers have more continuous responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by Respite Workers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Respite Workers often encounter challenges such as adapting to diverse client needs, managing behavioral issues, and balancing emotional boundaries while providing compassionate care. It is important to communicate openly with families and supervisors to clarify expectations and receive support. Utilizing ongoing training, peer collaboration, and self-care strategies can help manage stress and ensure high-quality care for clients. Staying organized and flexible also helps in responding to changing circumstances typical in this role.

What Is a Respite Worker?

A respite worker provides short-term assistance for families that care for loved ones full-time at home. Caring for a sick or elderly family member is exhausting and may have a physical and emotional toll on the primary caregiver. Families hire respite workers to give these caregivers a break from health care responsibilities and allow them to recharge. As a respite worker, you may be scheduled to work with a patient for a few hours or for as long as a whole weekend. Your job duties may include driving the patient to doctor appointments, picking up medications from the pharmacy, helping the patient with personal hygiene routines and meal times, administering medications, and assisting with physical therapy exercises.

What are Respite Workers?

Respite Workers are professionals who provide temporary relief and support to primary caregivers of individuals with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or special needs. Their main role is to step in and care for the person in need, offering supervision, companionship, and assistance with daily activities while the regular caregiver takes a break. This service helps prevent caregiver burnout and ensures that those receiving care remain safe and comfortable. Respite Workers may work in clients' homes, specialized facilities, or community settings, and their duties can vary based on the needs of each family.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

Respite workers typically earn hourly wages that may not reach $2,000 weekly unless working full-time hours or multiple clients. To increase income, they can seek additional shifts, specialize in high-demand care, or obtain certifications to command higher rates. Building a strong reputation and working with multiple clients can also help boost earnings.
What are popular job titles related to Respite Worker jobs in California? For Respite Worker jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Respite Worker jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Respite Worker jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Respite Worker jobs? Cities in California with the most Respite Worker job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Respite Worker jobs in CA? For Respite Worker jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Respite Worker job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,720 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Respite Worker - Idyllwild

United Cerebral Palsy of The Inland Empire

Palm Desert, CA • On-site

$17.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Respite Worker

Location: Idyllwild

About the Role

As a Respite Worker with United Cerebral Palsy, you’ll make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. You’ll provide compassionate, temporary care and supervision for clients who live at home with a family member or care provider. Your support allows families to rest, recharge, and maintain stability while knowing their loved one is in safe hands.

What You’ll Do
  • Provide responsible, caring support to clients so families can maintain balance and well-being.

  • Work a minimum of two hours per respite appointment.

  • Follow care instructions provided by the client’s parent(s) or guardian(s).

  • Assist with daily living activities such as feeding, dressing, toileting, grooming, and light meal preparation as needed.

  • Always maintain safety and supervision for clients and siblings, never leave them unattended.

  • Report any suspected abuse or safety concerns to the Respite Program Manager and complete required documentation.

  • Keep CPR and First Aid certifications current and on file.

  • Submit accurate timecards, mileage, and daily client notes using UCPIE’s online systems.

  • Keep personal and emergency information up to date.

  • Respond to UCPIE team calls within 24 hours (or immediately for emergencies).

  • Participate in ongoing training and development through workshops, modules, and annual in-house sessions.

  • Follow all UCPIE policies, safety procedures, and the Injury and Illness Prevention Plan.

  • Important: Clients and siblings may not be transported under any circumstances.

What You’ll Bring
  • A caring, dependable, and patient nature.

  • Strong communication and ethical decision-making skills.

  • Ability to remain calm and professional in challenging or crisis situations.

  • Eagerness to learn and grow through ongoing training.

Requirements
  • Education: High school diploma or GED.

  • Experience: At least 2 years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities (personal or professional experience accepted).

  • Skills: Good communication (written and verbal), basic computer proficiency.

Additional Qualifications
  • Current CPR and First Aid certification.

  • Negative TB test (updated every 3 years).

  • Valid driver’s license, car insurance, and registration.

  • Ability to pass a background check through FBI and DOJ.

  • Legal authorization to work in the U.S.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This position involves visiting clients in their homes and driving within the community (typically no more than 40 miles unless pre-approved). You should be comfortable sitting, standing, lifting, and assisting clients as needed—including using adaptive equipment. The role also requires the ability to perform CPR and climb stairs when necessary.

UCPIE is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. UCPIE makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time. For more information, read through our EEO Policy.