Estate/Private Service

Updated on October 28, 2024

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE FOR DOMESTIC STAFF (Partial Listing)

 Harper Associates handles many exclusive domestic staffing assignments for prominent executive families. Recent experience in luxurious private residences, along with outstanding references from previous employers are required for consideration. 

     

DIRECTOR OF ESTATE PROPERTIES - CHICAGO, IL

Our client, a prominent Executive based in Chicago, is seeking a first-class professional who has previously managed multiple estates simultaneously. This individual will oversee all aspects of management, hospitality and five-star service within three residential properties (one in Chicago, two others within the U.S.). Detailed job description will be shared with qualified candidates.

Some travel is required to the other properties but it is not excessive and typically not for more than one week at a time. Position is based in/near the downtown Chicago area. Prior multi-estate management experience is required, along with an exemplary career history and outstanding communication skills. Expertise in IT (SMART home systems) and finance would be advantageous.

Exceptional six figure salary plus excellent benefit package! Relocation assistance provided.

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com


HOUSEKEEPER / COOK (VEGAN) - GAINESVILLE, FL

This is a newly created, full-time, year-round opportunity (Monday-Friday) to work for a mature couple in their beautiful home. Responsibilities will include cleaning all aspects of the home and also handling laundry. We are seeking someone who enjoys cooking and is comfortable preparing vegan meals. Family desires local candidate who is interested in a long term situation, college students will not be considered. Great salary plus outstanding benefits!

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com


PRIVATE CHEF - BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI

Monday-Friday

Very busy household is seeking a full-time Chef who enjoys working in a family setting.  The Chef will plan and prepare breakfast (certain days of the week), after school snack and dinner, Monday-Friday. There will be an agreed upon schedule, however, the Chef must be flexible to work varied hours to accommodate the family’s needs, which do change frequently.  The family likes classic meals, including Mediterranean fare. Favorite recipes will be shared for use as well.

Job entails:

  • Creating weekly menus in advance for approval
  • Grocery shopping, ensuring the home is well stocked with food and beverages
  • Cleaning kitchen and workspaces upon departure each day
  • Maintaining cleanliness of refrigerators and all food storage areas
  • Occasional weekend support and travel required
  • Providing event support: cooking for smaller parties, working with Estate Manager to coordinate larger parties

Excellent salary commensurate with experience plus terrific benefits!

Send resume in a Word format attachment to ben@harperjobs.com


EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPER - BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI

Executive family wants to expand their loyal team of staff members.  Family is open to full or part-time as there is another part-time housekeeper.  This individual will be involved in cleaning the home and laundry with some ironing.  Must be comfortable in a home with a teenager and a dog.  Hours would be 9am-4pm, typically Monday-Friday.  Covid vaccinations required.  Terrific wages! Medical benefits may be negotiable.

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com


COOK / HOUSEKEEPER - BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI

Elderly couple is seeking a multi-talented individual to assist them with various tasks. Responsibilities will include cooking, housekeeping, laundry, ironing, shopping, errands, etc. This is a part-time position, schedule is Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 11am-5pm.  $35-$40/hr.

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com


PERSONAL ASSISTANT - MANHATTAN, NY

Newly created position for a prominent, mature couple on the UES. They are seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented professional to assist them with a variety of needs, primarily focusing on providing support to the female principal. Couple is searching for someone who has already worked in Manhattan as a Personal Assistant for another executive or family on a long-term basis. Responsibilities may vary from running local errands, to organizing inventories in and outside the home, ordering household supplies, etc.. This individual will need a pro-active approach to getting things accomplished and overseeing projects, potentially large and/or small, from beginning to end. The Personal Assistant must have advanced proficiency in MS Office Suite. The ideal candidate will have experience in an environment with extensive fine art and be comfortable corresponding with art galleries and museums and handling logistics for transporting artwork.

Personality traits are of utmost importance for success in this role. These include flexibility, reliability, loyalty, discretion, good listening and trustworthiness.  Outstanding communication skills at all levels and the ability to act on behalf of the employer are also essential components needed. This position demands a self-starter who can anticipate needs and conduct due diligence when appropriate to provide solutions. In order to be considered for this opportunity, someone must already be living in the Manhattan area, have a valid driver’s license and be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. References from previous employers will be required when requested.

Position is Monday through Friday and will require some on-site work and some remote; flexibility is an absolute necessity.  Excellent six figure salary plus terrific individual benefits which include medical, dental, vision and 401K.

Only candidates living in Manhattan who are familiar with resources and services in the area will be considered.

All inquiries will remain confidential.
Send resume in a Word format attachment to: ben@harperjobs.com


DOMESTIC CARETAKER COUPLE - PALM BEACH, FL

A prestigious, 20,000+ sq. ft. ocean-front private estate necessitates a dedicated and experienced hands-on Caretaker Couple for the overall upkeep and maintenance of the property. This full-time, live-out position requires a team with a strong background in private home service who is committed to providing exceptional care and attention to detail. The ideal candidates will have at least 10 years of relevant experience and will understand the discretion and professionalism required in private service. Principals have multiple residences and do not live on property year-round. Additional staff will be on site when needed.

Key areas of responsibilities will include:

  • Home Maintenance
  • Housekeeping
  • Pantry & Supplies Management
  • Light Meal Preparation
  • Entertainment Duty
  • Household Linens & Laundry
  • Wardrobe Maintenance
  • Light Gardening
  • Outdoor Patio, Pool, Fountains & Grounds Oversight
  • Watercraft & Leisure Equipment Maintenance
  • Pet Care/Feeding
  • Vehicle Cleaning
  • Other miscellaneous duties as directed by Estate Manager

Requirements:

  • Solid knowledge of water chilled HVAC system (this home has a two chillers) weekly inspections will require the candidate to go through the attics monthly and check the units for proper operation and filter changes.
  • This home has a battery back up system by Blue Planet which runs each day for 4 hours during peak electric usage. Candidate will be brought up to speed on the monitoring and must be able to communicate with the service providers.
  • Familiarity with water softening systems.
  • Knowledge of fire suppression systems including a Vesda Smoke sampling system.
  • Prior care of concealed roll down screens and shutters.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in private home care or similar roles.
  • Strong understanding of the discretion and confidentiality required in personal domestic service.
  • Experience/familiarity with Savant home management or other similar systems.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Flexibility in scheduling to accommodate family and guest stays.
  • Ability to perform a wide range of tasks with minimal supervision.
  • Strong communication skills to liaise with the estate manager and other staff.
  • Proficiency in upscale home maintenance, gardening, and housekeeping.
  • Experience with light meal preparation and kitchen management.
  • Pet-friendly, with basic pet care skills.
  • Ability to handle watercraft and perform basic maintenance.
  • Valid driver's licenses for both individuals.
  • Looking for a long-term placement.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. and stand for extended periods of time.
  • Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word) proficiency for communication and scheduling.

Hours & Reporting:

  • Full-time, onsite, weekly schedule TBD
  • Reports to Estate Manager regarding schedule, ongoing needs, maintenance issues, and any special requests or instructions from the estate owners.

This role offers an exceptional opportunity for a couple looking to commit to a long-term position within a serene and prestigious environment, ensuring the estate is maintained to the highest standards. Outstanding, competitive salary commensurate with experience along with excellent benefit package!

Local candidates who have worked in the Palm Beach area preferred.

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com


LAUNDRESS (PART-TIME) - BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI

Busy family with young children is seeking a great laundress to wash, dry, fold and iron linens and clothing. Two days/week.  Terrific wages!

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com


ESTATE HOUSEKEEPER - WEST BLOOMFIELD, MI

An extremely well-respected family with a magnificent home is seeking the expertise of a professional Estate Housekeeper on a full-time basis. Requires five-star standards and extensive knowledge of working with high-end furnishings, surfaces, linens, and garments along with fine art. Full-time position, Monday-Friday, 8 am-4 pm. On occasional weekends or holidays, a 2-hour touch-up may be required when the family is in residence. A genuine, service-oriented attitude and the ability to work well with other household team members are essential for success in this role. The ideal candidate would be able to travel to other residences a few times/year. Great salary and EXCEPTIONAL benefits package including paid family medical insurance! We are seeking local candidates or those planning to move to the metro Detroit area. 

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com


HOUSE MANAGER - ROCHESTER, MI

Local candidates only

Excellent, newly created position available to support two busy Executives and their ten-year-old child. The family is searching for a private service professional who has recently worked as a House Manager in another upscale home. Schedule would typically be Monday through Friday, 9:30/10am-4:30pm (32-40 hours/week). There is also a part-time housekeeper on staff.

The House Manager will be responsible for:

  • Creating a House Manual and adhering to it
  • Handling payments to vendors and monthly accounting
  • Setting up appointments with service contractors for pool, landscape, maintenance, etc.
  • Pet care (walking dog and taking to vet and grooming appointments, occasional overnight care)
  • Grocery shopping
  • Light meal prep (chopping vegetables, simple muffins, etc.)
  • Maintaining inventory of household items
  • Packing for travel (business and personal trips)
  • Purchasing and returning items
  • Gift management
  • Transporting ten-year-old to afterschool/summer activities
  • Organizing the home, toys, etc.
  • Scheduling car maintenance, wash etc.
  • Overseeing drycleaning
  • Running errands
  • Planning events
  • Miscellaneous computer tasks

The ideal candidate is able to use discretion and maintain professionalism. NDA will be required. $40-$50/hr., plus medical benefits/stipend.

All inquiries will remain confidential.

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com


HOUSEKEEPER (PART-TIME): BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI

We are seeking a detail-oriented housekeeper with luxury home experience for an excellent, long term opportunity. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9am-4pm. Great wages!

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com


EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPER - GLEN ARBOR, MI (NEAR TRAVERSE CITY)

Wonderful full-time, year-round opportunity for an experienced housekeeper to work for a family in their private home and in their guest residences. We are seeking a professional who is extremely personable, flexible and service oriented. Excellent salary plus outstanding benefit package including fully paid medical, dental, vacation, 401K.

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com


EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPER - BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI

Private family will offer top-of-the-line cleaning equipment and work clothing for an outstanding housekeeper who also excels at laundry and ironing. Full-time position: Monday-Saturday with Fridays off (Monday - Friday may be considered).  Hours 9am/10am-5pm/6pm, depending on the day. Responsibilities will include all aspects of house cleaning, putting groceries away, accepting packages, breaking down boxes, setting tables, etc.. Must have recent experience in a very large, upscale home and be comfortable with some heavy lifting. There are no children or pets living in the home. Excellent payroll wages ($40/hr.), guaranteed hours with potential for overtime, paid time off, benefits negotiable.

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com


ESTATE HOUSEKEEPER - BIRMINGHAM, MI

Formal home with other household staff offers a terrific long term career for a dedicated, team player. Monday-Friday, day hours, with only occasional weekends requested. Excellent salary plus great benefit package!

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com


LAUNDRESS (FULL-TIME): BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI

Join a great team of household staff as a laundress for a busy family . Expert laundry and ironing skills are required, along with previous experience working in an upscale private home. Will also need to be capable and flexible to assist other staff with housekeeping responsibilities as needed. Monday-Friday, 7am-3pm. Great salary and benefits! Non-smokers only please.

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com


PRIVATE CAREGIVER - BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI

If you have caregiving experience including dementia and would enjoy working with a sophisticated, senior female in her upscale private home, this may be an ideal situation for you. Schedule would be 3 or 4 days week (10-12 hr. shifts) alternating with a team of other devoted caregivers. We are seeking a friendly, flexible professional. $25/hr. plus overtime.

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com



PRIVATE CHEFS AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY ON A TEMPORARY OR PERMANENT BASIS

   For 25+ years, Harper Associates has placed numerous private chefs, house managers, housekeepers, etc. for many executive families in the metro Detroit area and Florida.

   We are currently representing several excellent chefs who are available immediately to work for a family exclusively on a permanent or temporary basis. They are all ServSafe trained with great cooking skills and experience; most have culinary degrees. Due to the impact the Coronavirus is having on the hospitality industry, many of these Chefs have recent backgrounds in very well-respected restaurants. If you hire a Chef, they would handle all the grocery shopping and food preparation. They can cook meals in your home and also serve and clean up or they can prepare your meals off-premise and drop them off if desired. Most of these chefs are very adept at accommodating special dietary regimens as well.

   These Chefs are typically seeking $35/hr.-$50/hr. for their time plus the cost of groceries.

   For more information, please contact Ben Schwartz - 248-737-0431 - ben@harperjobs.com

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Other positions may be available; many of our clients prefer to keep their vacancies confidential. If you have experience in a large private residence and accompanying references and you are targeting a move to Michigan, please send your resume and let us know when/where you plan to relocate.

Send resume in a Word format attachment to cindy@harperjobs.com

Harper Associates Executive Residence positions include:

  • Estate Managers

  • Estate Housekeepers

  • Butlers

  • Private Chefs/Personal Chefs

  • Nannies

  • Laundresses

  • Chauffeurs

  • Maintenance Coordinators

  • Executive/Personal Assistants

  • Domestic Couples

HARPER ASSOCIATES

A Michigan based company founded in 1968.

Phone: 248-932-1170

Fax: 888-737-8525

info@harperjobs.com

www.harperjobs.com

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