Find the right nanny for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to find a nanny?
Our nanny placement process typically takes 4-6 weeks, from matching consultation to hiring. We screen new applicants for every role to ensure we provide the best possible matches for each family.
How do you screen nanny candidates?
Pearl Nannies is one of the most selective nanny agencies in Portland, Oregon.
We evaluate every candidate with a comprehensive 9-point screening process:
- Two rounds of agency interviews
- Professional reference interviews
- Highest level of education verification
- CPR certification verification
- Vaccination verification
- Online presence screening
- Comprehensive background check
- Driving record check
What are your agency fees?
Our agency fees begin with a $250 retainer to initiate your search, followed by a one-time placement fee equal to 10% of the nanny’s gross annual compensation. For short-term nannies (duration less than one year), our placement fee is equal to 12% of the nanny’s gross total compensation.
Placement fees are due upon hiring. Our fees are separate from the nanny’s compensation. We never charge any fees to nannies.
What services do you offer?
We focus exclusively on nanny placement services, allowing us to provide a level of attention and care unmatched by agencies with wider offerings.
We can do placements for full-time or part-time nannies (minimum of 20 hours per week). Most of our clients seek long-term care, but we can do placements for roles as short as 12 weeks.
For occasional or backup care, we recommend Spilt Milk Nannies. We have a partnership with SMN to offer our clients an introductory discount on their services.
What areas do you serve?
We serve families in Portland, Oregon and the surrounding metro area, including Lake Oswego, Beaverton, West Linn, Hillsboro, Tualatin, Tigard, Gresham, Happy Valley, and others. We are happy to initiate searches for families outside of the Portland metro area, but please note placement times may be longer while we source nannies willing to commute.
Why should I work with Pearl Nannies to hire a nanny?
Hiring a nanny is a complex process. It takes countless hours to sift through applicants, coordinate interviews, speak to references, run background checks, and negotiate contracts. We are a full-service nanny placement agency, meaning we handle all of those details for you, so you can focus on choosing the right fit. Our support continues through onboarding and beyond to ensure things go smoothly.
What can I expect to pay a nanny?
Rates for nannies in the Portland area start at $25-35 per hour.
See our Nanny Compensation Guide for more information.
How do I handle taxes for my nanny?
You will be your nanny’s employer, so you will be responsible for withholding employment taxes and providing pay stubs.
We have a partnership with HomePay, a comprehensive household payroll service, to offer our clients a complimentary consultation and a discount on their services. HomePay can handle all of your employer tax obligations and provide a hands-off solution to paying your nanny. You can learn more about HomePay here.
Is there a trial period before I hire a nanny?
Pearl Nannies encourages families to do a short trial period with their nanny before making a long-term commitment, but it is optional. Trial periods can be as short as one day or as long as two weeks.
What if things don't go well after hiring my nanny?
We’re confident that our full-service nanny placement process will help you hire the right nanny for your family. We will stay in touch after placement to assist with onboarding and clearing any hurdles that arise. However, for peace of mind, we do offer one complimentary replacement search, subject to the terms of our referral services agreement, in case things don’t work out within the first 90 days of employment.
What household duties do nannies typically perform?
In addition to childcare, a nanny’s household duties include:
- tidying and organizing children’s spaces
- maintaining common areas
- meal preparation for the children
- washing children’s dishes and unloading the dishwasher
- folding/putting away children’s laundry
Many nannies are willing to take on more responsibilities for a higher hourly rate.
Can you help me find a nanny with a specific qualification, like fluency in a second language or Montessori experience?
Yes. We are happy to do specific searches to meet your family’s needs and find the right fit. Please keep in mind your search may take longer than average in order to source qualified candidates.