Working with a nanny agency in Los Angeles can significantly improve your chances of landing a quality placement — but not all agencies work the same way, and knowing what to look for before you sign up will save you time and frustration.
What a Nanny Agency Actually Does
A placement agency acts as a middleman between candidates and families. They screen you, represent you to client families, and handle the introduction process. In most cases they don’t charge candidates a fee — the placement fee is paid by the family.
What the agency does for you:
- Presents your profile to vetted, serious families
- Screens families for legitimacy and fit before introductions
- Helps negotiate compensation and contract terms
- Provides a point of contact if issues arise after placement
What to Look for in an Agency
Not every agency is the right fit for every candidate. Here’s what matters:
Specialization
Some agencies focus on traditional nanny placements, others on newborn care specialists, household managers, or family assistants. Look for agencies whose specialty aligns with your experience and the type of role you’re seeking.
Candidate Support
A good agency communicates clearly, gives you honest feedback, and doesn’t leave you guessing. Before committing to an agency, ask how often they’re in contact with candidates, and what happens if a placement doesn’t work out.
Reputation With Families
Agencies that have strong relationships with families tend to have better-quality job opportunities. Ask how long they’ve been operating in the LA market and what kinds of families they typically work with.
Candidate Requirements
Most reputable LA agencies have a minimum bar for candidates. Being prepared before you apply means a faster, smoother process. Common requirements include:
- 3+ years of verifiable professional experience
- Current CPR and First Aid certification
- Valid California driver’s license with a clean record
- 2–3 professional references from previous families
- Eligibility to work in the United States
Questions to Ask an Agency Before You Sign Up
- How many active job openings do you currently have?
- What types of families do you typically work with?
- How long does the average placement process take?
- What support do you offer if a placement doesn’t work out?
- Do you charge candidates any fees?
- How do you handle contract and compensation negotiations?
Working With Multiple Agencies
There’s no rule against registering with more than one agency at a time. In a competitive market like Los Angeles, working with several agencies increases your exposure to available roles. Just be transparent with each one — agencies appreciate candidates who communicate clearly about their search.
You can browse all current open nanny and household positions from LA agencies in one place on our jobs board.