Helpkeeper Jobs in America: A Beginner’s Guide to the duties, earnings and lifestyle of the Helpkeeper profession in the U.S.
The helpkeeper job is one of the most misunderstood and least appreciated jobs in the country. While many people mistake the helpkeeper for a housekeeper or domestic worker, their job goes far beyond cleaning. The helpkeeper job encompasses anything from assisting families and senior citizens to providing assistance for hotels, hospitals and private residences to keep day-to-day operations running smoothly. More importantly it can provide excellent job prospects for recent immigrants, international job seekers and local people looking for a stable job, that is not dependent on an extensive education. Beyond typical job posting, this article will provide some real-world experiences and help you prepare for the helpkeeper job.
So What is a Helpkeeper Job?
A Helpkeeper typically handles three main responsibilities: To maintain cleanliness, to organise and to perform basic household or facility level assistance. Unlike other jobs that are highly specialised, Helpkeepers will perform many small yet essential tasks, which makes them very valuable.
Here are some of the most common things that the helpkeeper will be responsible for:
- Clean and sanitize work or living spaces
- Laundry, ironing, and organizing basic household items
- Assistance with daily activities to the elderly and disabled
- Assistance in Hotels, Hospitals, or Care Facilities
- General support for families in the household, regular day-to-day needs.
Each employer offers different roles and responsibilities of helpkeepers in the USA. For example, a hotel helpkeeper has a different role than a private home helpkeeper and then there are also differences between those who work in the healthcare industry.
Reasons for Increased Demand of Helpkeepers in the USA
Since millions of Americans will become elderly in the next decade the demand for helpkeepers is increasing due to the following reasons:
- The increase in the elderly population: As the American population ages, they would prefer to receive care from home instead of moving to a nursing home. The helpkeepers will facilitate that process, providing assistance that allows elderly individuals to remain independent.
- Families with two or more parents that work full-time jobs: Due to both parents working full-time, families depend on helpkeepers to manage daily household activities.
- Rapid Growth of the Hospitality Industry: Due to the rise in hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals across the nation, the helpkeeper positions are constantly in high demand.
- Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and Care Centers require helpkeepers to maintain a patient’s personal hygiene and comfort.
Expected wages and working hours
Many people who are interested in becoming helpers in the USA have similar questions regarding salary.
The following statistics reflect the average salaries in the USA for helpers:
Hourly Wage $13-$20 Hourly wage for a helper in the USA
Average Monthly Income: $2200-$3500 depending on location and hours worked
Annual Salary: $28000-42000
Wages tend to be higher in states (like California, New York, Texas and Florida) where the cost of living is very high and therefore the demand for workers is increased.
Working Hours for helpers
Most full-time helpers work between 35 and 45 hours a week, although there are also part-time and live-in options available to you.
In some cases, you may receive overtime pay working as a helper in hotels and healthcare settings.
As a live-in helper, you may be provided with housing and meals as part of your compensation package, thereby reducing your overall monthly living expenses considerably.
Skills that are needed to work as a helper
One of the most appealing aspects of working as a helper in the USA is that the job is very accessible: you do not need to have a college degree but you will increase your chances of earning more money and achieving long-term job success if you are able to demonstrate some of the following skills:
Basic English communication skills
Time management skills
Attention to detail
Physical endurance or stamina
Ability to be trustworthy and exercise discretion in carrying out your duties.
Additional SKILLS TO CONSIDER:
Experience working with the elderly
Basic cooking skills
Familiarity with cleaning equipment
Certification in First Aid or CPR.
Is Your Helpkeeper Job the Right Choice for You?
Many helpkeepers start the job as Only Temporary Options however, they remain in this field for many years. The reasons:
- The predictable routine of the job enables the helpkeeper to experience less stress.
- There is little competition for jobs.
- The helpkeeper forms strong family or employer relationships.
- There are plenty of opportunities to promote into supervisory or caregiving roles.
Many helpkeepers later move into care assistant roles, hotel supervisory positions, and private service management positions. Therefore, the helpkeeper job can be a starting point of a career or can lead down other avenues.
How To Obtain A Helpkeeper Job In The USA
A legitimate helpkeeper job requires caution and smart searching. It is recommended to put your trust in:
- Online Job Portals (such as Indeed, Glassdoor, Care.com).
- Career Pages of Hotels and/or Hospitals.
- Local Staffing Agencies.
- Local Community Centers and Referrals.
Helpful Tip When Searching For A Helpkeeper Job:
Stay away from job offers that:
- Require you to pay an upfront fee.
- Offer you a Visa without documentation.
- Do not provide a written contract.
Legitimate employers will provide their job description and a clear understanding of the payment agreement.
Visa/Legal Considerations for International Workers
International workers may have the option of obtaining a helpkeeper job in the USA under various visa programs such as:
- Temporary Work Visa.
- Employer Sponsored Visa.
- Domestic Worker Visa for Diplomats.
It is important to consult with only licensed agents or official Immigration sources. Do not depend on anyone making you promises unofficially.