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Unit Care Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Unit Care Technician

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$23.62 - $34.83/hr

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital seeks a Unit Care Technician for their Surgery department responsible for rendering direct and indirect patient care under direction of appropriate licensed personnel.

Unit Care Technician

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital seeks a Unit Care Technician for their Nursing Resource Unit department responsible for rendering direct and indirect patient care under direction of appropriate ...

PCU RN

Brunswick, GA · On-site

$2.0K/wk

Travel RN- PCU * Start Date: ASAP * Shift time: 6:45p-7:15a * Contract Duration: 13 weeks * tele step down high acuity unit * ICU care, drips, stable vents, but no vasopressors. * Cerner charting

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Unit Care information

See salary details

$39K

$72.4K

$102K

How much do unit care jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for unit care in the United States is $72,401.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a unit care professional?

Unit Care professionals are healthcare workers responsible for providing direct support and assistance to patients within a specific hospital unit, such as a medical-surgical, intensive care, or rehabilitation unit. Their duties typically include monitoring patient vital signs, assisting with daily activities, maintaining a clean and safe environment, and supporting nursing staff with patient care tasks. Unit Care staff play a crucial role in ensuring patients receive high-quality and compassionate care during their hospital stay.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a unit care professional?

To thrive as a Unit Care professional, you need a solid understanding of patient care procedures, basic medical knowledge, and often a certification such as CNA or similar healthcare credential. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), patient monitoring systems, and hospital protocols is typically required. Compassion, teamwork, and strong communication skills help you support both patients and colleagues effectively. These skills ensure safe, efficient care delivery and contribute to a positive healthcare environment.

What are some common challenges unit care staff face when managing multiple patients simultaneously?

Unit Care staff often balance the needs of several patients at once, which can be challenging due to varying acuity levels and rapidly changing conditions. Prioritizing tasks, maintaining clear communication with nurses and physicians, and staying organized are crucial for providing high-quality care. Time management skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential, as unexpected situations or emergencies can arise at any time. Support from a collaborative team environment helps staff navigate these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Unit Care vs Home Health Aide?

AspectUnit CareHome Health Aide
CertificationsCertified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or similarCertified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Home Health Aide certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilitiesPrivate homes, community settings, home care agencies
Employer & IndustryHealthcare facilities, long-term care providersHome health agencies, private clients
Job FocusProviding basic patient care, assisting with daily activitiesAssisting with personal care, light housekeeping, companionship

Both Unit Care and Home Health Aide roles involve providing essential patient and personal care, often requiring similar certifications. However, Unit Care typically works in institutional settings like hospitals or nursing homes, while Home Health Aides focus on in-home care. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right environment for their skills and preferences.

What cities are hiring for Unit Care jobs?

Cities with the most Unit Care job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Unit Care jobs?

The most popular types of Unit Care jobs are:

Unit Care Technician

Santa Barbara, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital seeks a Unit Care Technician for their Surgery department responsible for rendering direct and indirect patient care under direction of appropriate licensed personnel. Facilitates care to meet patient's daily living activity needs by providing physical and clerical support, coordinating activities, and communicating effectively. Provides personal self-care and activity programs to patients. Responsibilities include:

  • Contributes to the operation of the unit. 
  • Responsible for completion of unit competency assessments and, if appropriate, annual education review. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

All job qualifications listed indicate the minimum level necessary to perform this job proficiently. 

Education:

  • Preferred: 1 year of nursing school.

Certifications, Licenses, Registrations:

  • Minimum: American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS).
  • Preferred: EMT, CNA, or Medical Assistant Certification.

Technical Requirements:

  • Minimum: Basic Computer skills. Knowledge of office systems, practices, and equipment. Knowledge of basic medical terminology. Ability to use correct grammar and spelling. Excellent customer service skills.
  • Preferred: Ability to use computer charting (electronic medical record) and computer order entry. Microsoft Word and Excel skills. 

Years of Related Work Experience:

  • Preferred: 1 year customer service experience in a healthcare setting, or 1 year clerical experience in a healthcare setting, or one year patient care experience.
Cottage Health is a leading acute care hospital system, located on the central coast of California, widely known for our superior patient care, innovation, medical research and education. Our health system operates primarily in Santa Barbara, CA, since 1888, and consists of three acute care hospitals, a Rehabilitation Hospital, multiple clinics and a multi-site Urgent Care system. Our mission is to serve the central coast communities with excellence, integrity, and compassion. Every day we touch thousands of lives in many different ways, resolute in our mission to put patients first. We take pride in helping our patients get back to living their lives - in the places they love.

*Pay for non-physician positions is determined based on related years of experience and internal equity. Eligible employees may also receive additional forms of compensation, including shift differentials, on-call pay, incentive pay, and bonus opportunities, where applicable. Manager and above positions may participate in Cottage Health's annual management incentive program. Physician compensation is determined based upon specialty and may include bonus potential. For more information on our comprehensive Total Rewards offerings, please visit https://cottagehealth.org/careers/total-rewards.

If you're already a Cottage Health employee, please apply on this link only.