Single Working Owner - tips?

I have a 8-9 week standard poodle puppy (Henry) who is very smart and very attached. I am a working RN and have 2-3 shifts a week. I was very fortunate to have the first week at home with my boy to really work on our fundamentals, which on our fourth day are progressing well. I started crate training day one - as a single “pawrent” I don’t see another option that is safe for pup and the home. I return to work in 3 days…

Currently my plan is to crate him and have someone come let him out and play, feed if it’s the scheduled time every 3 hours. I’m a little worried as this definitely seems to be the upper limit from my online research for this age, but I’m not sure what else to do…. Add a gate and pee pads?

I’d love to hear your tips/experience returning to work as a single puppy owner! I have an AMAZING dog walker I used with my last boy (who sadly passed 6 months ago) but she is traveling for 6 weeks. So I’m relying on the generosity/kindness of friends and family until her return…