Couple Job in Berkshire
A wonderful opportunity has arisen for a professional and dedicated Domestic Couple to manage a beautiful five-bedroom estate in Berkshire, near Reading. This is a residence for a down-to-earth family of four who are based in Switzerland and visit the United Kingdom periodically throughout the year. The principals are looking for a discreet, respectful, and friendly couple to replace their long-standing staff of over ten years.
The estate consists of a main house, a two-bedroom guest cottage, and landscaped grounds including fields and chickens.
The Roles
Housekeeper / Cook
The primary focus is the meticulous upkeep of the five-bedroom main residence and the guest cottage. Duties include:
1. High-level housekeeping, including the care of antiques and silver polishing.
2. Laundry and linen management for the family and guests.
3. Preparing simple, high-quality meals. A sound knowledge of allergy-aware cooking is essential, specifically regarding shellfish and nut allergies.
4. Assisting with errands and grocery shopping.
Groundsman / Handyman / Driver
This role is responsible for the exterior maintenance and smooth operation of the estate. Duties include:
5. Maintaining the landscaped gardens and fields to their current high standard.
6. General handyman tasks, DIY, and estate caretaking.
7. Vehicle management for three cars, ensuring they are valeted and MOT-compliant.
8. Driving duties, including airport transfers and local errands.
9. Animal husbandry, specifically the daily care and feeding of chickens and egg collection.
Requirements
10. Previous experience in a similar private household role with long-term longevity in past positions.
11. References for the past 5 years
12. Ability to work in the UK
13. A discreet and professional manner, respecting the privacy of the principals.
14. Full, clean driving licences (a vehicle is provided for work-related duties).
15. Ability to manage temporary cover for the estate during personal holiday periods.
16. A welcoming attitude toward a family environment; the principals are happy to consider couples with children or pets.
Start Date:
Hours: Working Pattern
This position offers a unique balance of autonomy and high-level service:
17. When the family is away: The role is Monday to Friday. The family offers flexibility with hours during these periods, provided all tasks are completed to a high standard. On days off, you will still need to be available for the chickens and stay over night for security.
18. When the family is in residence: The couple must be flexible to work split shifts and up to seven days a week (maximum 14 days straight). If a visit exceeds two weeks, a day off will be provided every six days.
19. Typical Residency: The principals usually visit for approximately three months of the year, including Christmas, Easter, and during the shooting season (September to January).
Salary: £50,000 per annum.
Accommodation: A private, two-bedroom bungalow attached to the main house with its own separate entrance.
Job Reference:
If you have not had a registration interview with a consultant, please email your CV to:
Please note you will not have a candidate number until you have completed our full registration process.