We are looking for a brilliant all rounder for a large 9 bedroom home near Chippenham. The clients would also consider a couple - one to be full time house person/all rounder and the other to be a part time Housekeeper, alternatively they would be happy with one single person to do the role bringing in a local self employed cleaner.
It is really important that the candidate enjoys working in service and is happy to be fully committed to the household and its requirements. Essential you drive, and own car will be required for personal use.
Job Summary: A family of three based in north Wiltshire are looking for an experienced and hands on candidate to assist with the running of their beautiful 9 bedroom, 17th century countryside property which is situated on the edge of a charming historic village. The principals travel frequently but this property in Wiltshire is their main family home. The principals are warm, front-of-house focused, and value staff who become a trusted part of the household. They have an excellent reputation on longevity with their staff and this role arises due to their previous couple returning overseas after 12 years of loyal service. You will be supported by a part time live-out cleaner (if a couple is not employed) and there is also a full time gardener employed.
Job specification:
All Rounder:
• Cooking homestyle meals for the family a few times a week when in residence and for larger groups when entertaining - but very simple things - formal events they will bring in a chef. Principals appreciate ideas / initiative for new recipes and cooking styles. There is a well stocked kitchen garden for fresh seasonal produce.
• Driving duties including airport runs
• Vehicle care
• Dog care (2 lurchers) to including feeding, walking and looking after their general well being, particularly when the family are away. The dogs are an important part of the household and the family are looking for someone who genuinely loves dogs and look after them as their own.
• Household shopping and running errands
• Laying and maintaining fires. Log store management
• Swimming pool maintenance
• Acting as a keyholder and managing household security systems
• Organising and overseeing contractors
• Housekeeping to include preparing guest bedrooms, polishing silverware, and general cleaning and laundry. Housekeeping duties to be supported by a live-out part time housekeeper / cleaner (who you would manage). If you are a couple, then one part of the couple would be the part time housekeeper.
• Changing bed linens
• Table service when entertaining
Candidate specification:
• Friendly, personable, professional and discreet
• Able to blend naturally into a relaxed family environment yet also be able to adapt easily to more formal occasions
• Confident self-starter with strong organisational skills
• Comfortable working independently and managing your own workload
• Dog-friendly and happy in a countryside setting
• Confident driver
• Good level of spoken English
• Practical understanding of household systems (heating, water, alarms)
• Flexible and service-focused
Accommodation: You will be provided with a charming cottage which includes a large entrance hall / boot room, an open plan sitting room / kitchen / dining room, and two double (or twin) bedrooms. The property was completely refurbished in 2025 to an excellent standard. Partners are welcome. Dog (well behaved) may be considered but cat/s not allowed. Young children not suitable. This is a live in position only, the clients are not interested in live out candidates.
Optional travel: The role has no requirement to travel but for those interested there may be an opportunity to travel with the family to Norway / Scotland from time to time.
Enhanced DBS check required at offer stage.
Salary:
From £45,000 depending on experience
Contract length: Permanent on payroll with statutory holiday allowance and pension
Intervals of pay: Monthly
Notice Period: 8 weeks after probation
Working Days & hours: 5 days per week - to include weekends - with at least one weekend off per month.
Start Date: ASAP
Benefit: Enjoy a varied, hands-on role in a welcoming countryside household, with excellent staff retention and a newly refurbished private two-bedroom cottage included for a comfortable live-in lifestyle.
If you are interested in this role, please e mail ella@sugarellacooks.co.uk with your CV.