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Unit Helper Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Nursing Unit Secretary - Cancer Care

Portland, ME · On-site

$44K - $54K/yr

Nursing Unit Secretary - Cancer Care Location: 22 Bramhall Street, Portland Schedule:36 hours per ... If you're looking to build a career in a place where people help one another deliver best-in-class ...

Unit Manager, RN

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$98K - $102K/yr

As a Unit Manager/Director - RN where within an assigned unit you will support the Director of ... and helping residents regain strength, independence, and quality of life in a supportive ...

Unit Manager, RN

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$98K - $102K/yr

As a Unit Manager/Director - RN where within an assigned unit you will support the Director of ... and helping residents regain strength, independence, and quality of life in a supportive ...

Unit Manager, RN

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$98K - $102K/yr

As a Unit Manager/Director - RN where within an assigned unit you will support the Director of ... and helping residents regain strength, independence, and quality of life in a supportive ...

Unit Manager, RN

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$98K - $102K/yr

As a Unit Manager/Director - RN where within an assigned unit you will support the Director of ... and helping residents regain strength, independence, and quality of life in a supportive ...

Unit Manager, RN

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$98K - $102K/yr

As a Unit Manager/Director - RN where within an assigned unit you will support the Director of ... and helping residents regain strength, independence, and quality of life in a supportive ...

Unit Manager, RN

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$98K - $102K/yr

As a Unit Manager/Director - RN where within an assigned unit you will support the Director of ... and helping residents regain strength, independence, and quality of life in a supportive ...

As a Unit Manager/Director - RN where within an assigned unit you will support the Director of ... and helping residents regain strength, independence, and quality of life in a supportive ...

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Unit Helper information

See Portland, ME salary details

$8

$20

$31

How much do unit helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for unit helper in Portland, ME is $20.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a unit assistant?

To become a unit assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require relevant experience or training in healthcare or customer service. Some positions may also require certifications such as CPR or first aid. Strong communication skills and the ability to work in a team environment are important for this role.

What does a unit helper do?

A unit helper assists healthcare staff by supporting patient care activities, such as preparing rooms, delivering supplies, and helping with basic patient needs. They often work in hospitals or clinics and may require basic training or certifications like CPR. Their role helps ensure smooth unit operations and patient comfort.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Unit helpers typically do not earn $4,000 a week without a degree; such high weekly pay is more common in specialized fields like sales, real estate, or certain skilled trades where experience, certifications, or licenses are required. High-paying roles often involve commission, bonuses, or overtime, and may require specific skills or certifications rather than formal degrees.

What's the easiest hospital job to get?

A common entry-level hospital job is a unit helper or patient transporter, which typically requires minimal formal education and on-the-job training. These roles often involve assisting staff and patients, and may require a high school diploma or equivalent; certification is usually not necessary. They tend to have flexible schedules and high turnover, making them relatively accessible for new job seekers.

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

To thrive as a Unit Helper, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hospital sanitation protocols, basic medical equipment, and inventory management systems is often required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills for supporting clinical staff and maintaining a safe environment. These skills ensure efficient unit operations, patient safety, and smooth workflow in healthcare settings.

What are the typical responsibilities of a Unit Helper in a hospital setting?

As a Unit Helper in a hospital, your daily tasks often include assisting nursing staff with non-clinical duties such as transporting patients, delivering supplies, maintaining clean environments, and supporting patient comfort. You may also help with stocking medical carts, restocking linens, and ensuring equipment is readily available. Collaboration with nurses, housekeeping, and other support staff is key to ensuring smooth operations and a positive patient experience. This role offers valuable exposure to healthcare workflows and can be a stepping stone to more advanced positions within the hospital.

What is the difference between Unit Helper vs Nursing Assistant?

AspectUnit HelperNursing Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or GED; certification often required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, long-term care facilities, clinicsHospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in healthcare settings for basic support rolesStandard role in patient care, often with more direct patient interaction
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level healthcare support rolesCompared for roles with more direct patient care responsibilities

The main difference between a Unit Helper and a Nursing Assistant lies in their responsibilities and required certifications. Unit Helpers typically perform basic support tasks without requiring formal certification, while Nursing Assistants have more direct patient care duties and often need certification. Both roles are essential in healthcare settings, but Nursing Assistants usually have a broader scope of practice and more patient interaction.

What are Unit Helpers?

Unit Helpers are support staff in healthcare facilities who assist nurses and other medical personnel with non-clinical tasks. Their duties typically include transporting patients, delivering supplies, stocking equipment, and maintaining cleanliness in patient care areas. While they do not provide direct medical care, Unit Helpers play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of hospital units. Their support allows clinical staff to focus on patient care and improves the overall efficiency of healthcare services.
What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Unit Helper jobs? Cities near Portland, ME with the most Unit Helper job openings:
Nursing Unit Secretary - Med Surg 4

Nursing Unit Secretary - Med Surg 4

MaineHealth

Biddeford, ME • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago


MaineHealth rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 231 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

328th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Description

Maine Medical Center


Clerical/Administrative Support
Req #: 81398

For a limited time MaineHealth is offering a $3,000 sign on bonuses for
Nursing Unit Secretaries:

Eligible candidates are hired (offer accepted) into a Full or Part time NUS position.
Bonus amount prorated for Part time hires, per diem hires are ineligible.

Current MaineHealth member employees are ineligible; former MaineHealth Members are ineligible until greater than 6 months separation from employment.

Nursing Unit Secretary - Cardiac Medical/Surgical Unit (MS4)
Location:1 Medical Center Drive, Biddeford
Schedule:24 hours per week
Remote:On-site only (no remote flexibility)


Are you organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about supporting patient care? Join the team on our Cardiac Medical/Surgical Unit (MS4) at MaineHealth Maine Medical Center Biddeford!

As a Nursing Unit Secretary, you'll serve as the communication hub of the unit, helping ensure patients, families, nurses, providers, and support departments stay connected and informed. In this fast-paced role, you'll be an essential member of a collaborative care team dedicated to providing exceptional patient care.

What You'll Do:

Coordinate communication between patients, families, providers, and clinical staff
Assist with admissions, transfers, and discharges
Manage patient information and maintain accurate records
Answer phones and direct inquiries appropriately
Support daily operations to help keep the unit running smoothly

About MS4:

MS4 is a Cardiac Medical/Surgical unit that cares for adult patients with a variety of medical and cardiac conditions. The unit is known for its strong teamwork, collaborative culture, and commitment to delivering high-quality patient care.

If you thrive in a busy environment, enjoy multitasking, and take pride in helping others, we'd love to hear from you!


Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

  1. Education: High School diploma or GED preferred.
  2. License/Certifications: Current BLS certification preferred or may be required based on location.
  3. Experience: One year of hospital or health care setting preferred.
  4. Additional Skills/Requirements Required: N/A
  5. Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred: N/A


Hiring Scam Alert

MaineHealth will never request financial information during the interview or pre-hiring process. All legitimate communications will come from an email address ending in @mainehealth.org. If you suspect fraudulent activity, please report it immediately to mhcareers@mainehealth.org.

Additional Information

With a career at any of the MaineHealth locations across Maine and New Hampshire, you'll be working with health care professionals that truly value the people around them - both within the walls of the organization and the communities that surround it.
We offer benefits that support an individual's needs for today and flexibility to plan for tomorrow - programs such as paid parental leave, a flexible work policy, student loan assistance, training and education, along with well-being resources for you and your family.
MaineHealth remains focused on investing in our care team and developing an inclusive environment where you can thrive and feel supported to realize your full potential. If you're looking to build a career in a place where people help one another deliver best-in-class care, apply today.

If you have questions about this role, please contact sarah.polk@mainehealth.org


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