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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the care and running of a beautiful rural estate in North Devon.
- Company: Private estate offering a peaceful countryside lifestyle.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, accommodation included, and flexible working hours.
- Why this job: Enjoy hands-on work in a historic setting with stunning surroundings.
- Qualifications: Experience in practical household duties and a love for nature.
- Other info: Ideal for those who appreciate a tranquil lifestyle and enjoy varied tasks.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
A unique opportunity has arisen for an experienced Houseman/Housekeeper to support the care and running of a private rural estate in North Devon. The role is ideal for someone who enjoys a hands‑on, practical lifestyle, appreciates historic buildings, and values a peaceful countryside environment.
The Property
The estate features a four‑bedroom Tudor‑style manor house, a guest suite in a nearby barn, and approximately 25 acres of woodland, meadow, gardens, greenhouses, and a summer house. Various outbuildings require occasional maintenance and improvement projects.
Accommodation
A rustic one‑bedroom cottage on the estate, with electricity, gas, and internet included. Bathroom renovation planned. Employees must provide their own transport for personal use.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with grounds maintenance and general estate upkeep
- Care for woodland areas and perform light chainsaw work (non‑specialist)
- Maintain estate security and oversee property
- Sole housekeeper for the main residence between principal visits
- Cleaning, dusting, laundry, and general household support
- Laying fires and maintaining order throughout the home
- Cooking is not required
Driving
- Occasional transfers to Tiverton Parkway Station
- Monthly London trips with overnight stay near M4 (no central London driving)
- Estate vehicle provided
Working Hours and Salary
32 hours per week, Monday to Friday, flexible. £25,000–£30,000 per year, PAYE. Three‑year contract with six‑month probation.
Ideal Candidate
- Practical, reliable, and hands‑on
- Enjoys historic properties and countryside living
- Comfortable with varied estate and household duties
- Small, well‑behaved dog may be considered; dependants not suitable
Live-in Houseman/Housekeeper employer: Exclusive Household Staff
Contact Detail:
Exclusive Household Staff Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Live-in Houseman/Housekeeper
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the estate! Before your interview, take some time to research the property and its history. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect with the role on a personal level.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your hands-on skills! During interviews, share specific examples of your practical experience in similar roles. Whether it’s grounds maintenance or household duties, let them know you’re ready to roll up your sleeves.
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and adaptable! Highlight your ability to manage various tasks and adapt to changing needs on the estate. This is key for a role that involves both upkeep and household support.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application directly, ensuring it gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll be one step closer to landing that dream job in North Devon!
We think you need these skills to ace Live-in Houseman/Housekeeper
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Experience: When applying, make sure to highlight your relevant experience in housekeeping and estate management. We want to see how your hands-on skills can contribute to the upkeep of our beautiful rural estate.
Be Personal and Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We appreciate candidates who are genuine and passionate about working in a historic property and the countryside lifestyle. Share why this role excites you!
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send out a generic CV! Tailor it to match the job description, focusing on the key responsibilities and ideal candidate traits. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are truly interested in the position.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Exclusive Household Staff
✨Know the Estate Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research the estate and its history. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description, like grounds maintenance and household upkeep. Showing genuine interest in the property will impress the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Practical Skills
Since this role is hands-on, be ready to discuss your previous experience with similar tasks. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed estate upkeep or household duties in the past. If you have any relevant certifications or training, make sure to mention those too!
✨Show Your Love for Countryside Living
The ideal candidate enjoys a practical lifestyle in a peaceful environment. During the interview, express your appreciation for rural living and historic properties. Share any personal experiences that highlight your connection to nature and your ability to thrive in such settings.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could include inquiries about the estate's future projects or how they envision the role evolving over time. Thoughtful questions show that you're engaged and genuinely interested in becoming part of their team.