Lunch & Learn: Doc Talk Part 2 – The Benefits of a Geriatric Assessment  
Thursday, November 20th  From 12pm-1pm. RSVP Here.

Behind the Scenes: What It’s Like to Start Your Career at The Kensington Sierra Madre

Starting a new career is both exciting and nerve-wracking. For those considering a senior living job in Sierra Madre, the questions can feel endless: Will I feel prepared? Will I be supported? Will this career be rewarding?

At The Kensington Sierra Madre, the answer to all those questions is a resounding yes. From the moment new team members step through our doors, they are welcomed into an environment built on compassion, growth, and connection. 

This isn’t just a workplace, it’s a community guided by Our Promise: to love and care for your family as we do our own.

A Warm Welcome on Day One

Walking into a new job can be intimidating, but our onboarding process is designed to ease those first-day jitters. 

New hires are greeted by their supervisors, introduced to team members across departments, and given a tour of the community so they can immediately picture how their role fits into daily life.

Instead of being rushed into responsibilities, new employees shadow experienced team members, observing best practices and learning routines at a comfortable pace. This hands-on approach ensures confidence from the start and encourages questions along the way.

Training Designed for Success

A strong foundation is essential in caregiving, which is why The Kensington Sierra Madre invests in comprehensive training for every role. 

Whether you’re a caregiver, a dining team member, or beginning in life enrichment, you’ll learn not only the “how” of the job but also the “why.”

Training emphasizes safety, communication, and compassion, the three pillars of quality care. It also includes scenario-based learning, where new team members practice real-world situations under the guidance of mentors. 

For those curious about long-term opportunities, explore career growth in senior living to see how training evolves into advancement.

Mentorship That Builds Confidence

Starting a career in caregiving doesn’t mean going it alone. Each new team member is provided guidance, encouragement, and constructive feedback. 

These mentors share not just skills, but also stories of how they’ve built meaningful careers within memory care and assisted living.

This culture of support extends across departments. Whether you work in dining, nursing, or life enrichment, collaboration is key. 

Everyone plays a role in creating a safe and loving environment for residents, and mentorship ensures that this culture continues with every new hire.

Working Where Love Lives: Why Team Members Stay

The Kensington Sierra Madre is more than a place of employment, it’s a place where purpose meets practice. 

Team members often describe the atmosphere as family-like: residents are known by name, preferences are respected, and small moments of joy are celebrated every day.

From sharing meals with residents to leading music activities that spark smiles, every day brings opportunities to make a difference. For entry-level employees, this translates into a workplace that feels both professional and personal.

Career Starts That Grow Into Careers for Life

Many people join senior living as their first job in the healthcare or caregiving field

At The Kensington Sierra Madre, those first steps often lead to long-term careers. 

With ongoing training, certification sponsorships, and leadership pathways, employees who start in entry-level roles can advance into nursing, life enrichment leadership, or management positions.

Those looking for stability and growth discover that senior living is more than a stopgap, it’s a launching pad. 

The Rewards of Caregiving Work

Not every career allows you to see the impact of your work every day. 

In memory care and assisted living, the rewards are immediate:

  • A resident’s smile when you help them recall a favorite memory.
  • The gratitude of a family member who knows their loved one is safe.
  • The sense of accomplishment that comes from being part of a team that changes lives.

For those who thrive on purpose-driven work, a senior living job offers fulfillment that goes far beyond a paycheck.

Support for Work-Life Balance

While caregiving is meaningful, it can also be demanding. That’s why The Kensington Sierra Madre provides benefits and scheduling support that prioritize team well-being. 

Team members at The Kensington Sierra Madre enjoy: 

  • A meaningful career that makes an impact
  • Team support
  • Senior living career growth and advancement opportunities
  • On-the-job training and opportunities for certification
  • Mental health resources
  • Financial and retirement planning
  • Flexible schedules 
  • Many different positions available
  • Recognition and appreciation

By caring for caregivers, the community ensures everyone has the energy and peace of mind to care for residents with love.

Why Entry-Level Applicants Should Consider a Senior Living Job in Sierra Madre

For job seekers wondering whether this path is right for them, the best advice is to visit and experience the culture firsthand. 

Entry-level applicants often discover that the teamwork, structure, and sense of mission provide a stronger foundation than they expected.

Even without prior caregiving experience, new hires receive the tools and guidance to succeed, making it an ideal career start for those eager to learn and grow.

FAQs About Senior Living Jobs in Sierra Madre

What experience is required to apply for a senior living job in Sierra Madre?

No prior caregiving experience is required. The Kensington Sierra Madre provides comprehensive training and mentorship to help you succeed from day one, even if it’s your first role in senior living or healthcare.

What is the onboarding process like?

New team members are welcomed with a personalized orientation, shadow experienced mentors, and receive hands-on, scenario-based training. You’ll be supported every step of the way.

Are there opportunities for growth for entry-level employees?

Yes. Many team members start as caregivers or dining aides and advance into leadership roles, such as Lead Care Partner or department supervisors. Ongoing training and certification support are part of The Kensington’s promise.

What makes The Kensington Sierra Madre a great place to work?

Team members describe the culture as family-like, supportive, and purpose-driven. The Kensington emphasizes emotional connection, work-life balance, and a strong sense of mission in every role.

How do I apply for a position?

Visit our Careers Page to explore current openings, learn about training opportunities, and begin your application.

A Broader Perspective: Why Caregiving Careers Are Growing

Careers in senior care are in higher demand than ever before, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting steady growth in the healthcare and caregiving fields. 

This reflects both the aging population and the growing recognition of caregiving as a meaningful and professional endeavor. 

The Kensington Sierra Madre Difference

What sets The Kensington apart isn’t just the training, benefits, or opportunities, it’s the culture of compassion. 

Our Promise ensures that every resident is treated like family, and that same spirit extends to team members.

From the very first day, employees feel the warmth of a community that values their contributions, invests in their growth, and celebrates their successes. 

For those starting their careers, that kind of environment makes all the difference.

Begin Your Senior Care Career with The Kensington Sierra Madre

If you’re ready to start a career where purpose and growth intersect, consider joining our team.

Explore careers at The Kensington Sierra Madre today to learn more about long-term healthcare jobs, training opportunities, and the culture that makes us unique.