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- Tasks: Support a large private estate with maintenance, cleaning, and cooking.
- Company: Dynamic household environment in East Sussex and London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £45,000 GPA and flexible working hours.
- Other info: Opportunity for travel and varied tasks in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant team and make a real difference in a beautiful estate.
- Qualifications: Experience in household roles, handyman skills, and a full UK driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 £ per year.
Location: Rye, East Sussex and Roehampton
Hours/Days: Monday to Friday, 45 hours per week with flexibility when principals are in residence
Salary: £45,000 GPA
Start Date: ASAP
We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Houseman / Estate Assistant to support the smooth running of a large private estate in East Sussex, as well as a London property in Roehampton. This is a varied and dynamic role suited to a proactive and adaptable candidate who is confident managing multiple properties, assisting with maintenance and presentation, and providing practical support to the principals when in residence.
Responsibilities:
- Ensure the overall presentation and upkeep of the estate, including external areas
- Provide general maintenance support and basic handyman duties
- Care and clean outdoor areas, terraces, and BBQ spaces
- Assist with setting up the house for occupancy and closing down when vacant
- Move furniture and assist with household setups and events
- Monitor property systems and report maintenance issues
- Drive and care for vehicles when principals are in residence – airport transfers, general driving, maintain cleanliness, servicing schedules, and upkeep of all vehicles
- Run errands and ad hoc tasks as required
- Support general cleaning duties including vacuuming, dusting, and mopping
- Support laundry and ironing when required
- Change bed linen and prepare rooms for guests
- Ensure all areas remain tidy, organised, and guest-ready
- Prepare simple, family-style meals when required and assist with food preparation and kitchen organisation
- Shop groceries and maintain kitchen supplies, ensuring kitchen cleanliness and hygiene standards are maintained
- Run errands and assist with day-to-day household operations and manage/restock household supplies
- Liaise with contractors and assist with overseeing works on site
- Support ongoing household and estate projects
- Maintain staff accommodation, storage areas, and garage in Roehampton
- Travel to London approximately once per month and travel with the family when required
- Adapt duties based on occupancy and operational requirements; working may include weekends and evenings when the family is in residence or travelling
Candidate Requirements:
- Proven experience in a similar private household or estate role
- Strong practical/handyman skills and a hands-on approach
- Excellent organisational and time-management skills
- Basic cooking ability for family-style meals preferred
- Full UK driving licence (essential)
- Flexible, adaptable, and proactive attitude
- Discreet, professional, and highly reliable
Additional Information:
- The estate includes a large main house, guest house, and cottage
- The London property includes staff accommodation and storage facilities
- This is a hands-on, practical role within a private household environment
- A high level of confidentiality and professionalism is required at all times
Houseman employer: Exclusive Household Staff
Contact Detail:
Exclusive Household Staff Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Houseman
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to friends, family, or even acquaintances who might know someone in the private household sector. A personal recommendation can go a long way in landing that Houseman role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance for an interview, be ready to demonstrate your handyman abilities and cooking skills. Bring examples of past experiences where you've managed multiple properties or handled maintenance tasks.
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and adaptable! The job description mentions varying duties based on occupancy, so highlight your willingness to adjust your schedule and tasks as needed. This shows you're the proactive candidate they’re looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find and apply for roles like this one. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and helps us keep track of your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Houseman
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in private households or estates. We want to see your hands-on skills and how you've managed similar roles before, so don’t hold back!
Craft a Personal Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this Houseman role. Share specific examples of your experience with maintenance, cooking, or any other relevant tasks.
Show Off Your Flexibility: Since the role requires adaptability, mention any experiences where you’ve had to adjust your schedule or duties based on changing needs. We love candidates who can think on their feet!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Exclusive Household Staff
✨Know the Estate Inside Out
Before your interview, do some research on the estate and its surroundings. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities listed in the job description, such as maintenance tasks and cooking requirements. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared to take on the role.
✨Show Off Your Practical Skills
Since this role requires strong handyman skills, be ready to discuss specific examples of your past experiences. Bring along any relevant certifications or references that highlight your practical abilities. Demonstrating your hands-on approach will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Flexibility is Key
The job mentions flexibility in hours and duties, so be prepared to discuss how you've adapted to changing situations in previous roles. Share examples of times when you had to adjust your schedule or take on unexpected tasks, showcasing your proactive attitude.
✨Emphasise Discretion and Professionalism
Working in a private household requires a high level of confidentiality. Be ready to talk about how you've maintained professionalism in past positions. Sharing anecdotes that demonstrate your reliability and discretion will reassure the interviewers that you can be trusted in their home.