A private family is seeking an experienced, proactive Domestic Couple to support the smooth running of their beautiful country residence in Dorset.

This is a long-term opportunity for a hands-on couple who take pride in maintaining a private home and estate to exceptional standards. The property is a second home, occupied for approximately 18 weeks each year, together with occasional weekends and holidays. The successful couple will work closely with the House Manager to ensure the house and grounds are always beautifully presented.

The Role

Groundsman

Responsible for the maintenance and presentation of approximately 7 acres of grounds, including formal gardens, vegetable gardens, orchard, lawns, paddock, pond and river access.

Key duties include:

• Lawn, hedge and general garden maintenance
• Seasonal planting and pruning
• Vegetable garden, orchard and tree care
• Pond, river and paddock maintenance
• Log preparation and fire building during family stays
• Basic estate repairs and machinery maintenance
• Security checks and property inspections
• Managing external contractors when required
• Assisting with family arrivals and departures
• Occasional driving/chauffeur duties

Applicants with horticultural qualifications or experience on private estates are highly desirable. Additional skills such as chainsaw certification or tree work would be advantageous.

Housekeeper

Responsible for maintaining the residence to immaculate standards.

Key duties include:

• Full housekeeping
• Laundry, ironing and wardrobe care
• Household organisation and stock management
• Care of fine furnishings and interiors
• Household shopping and provisioning
• Light meal preparation
• Assisting with informal entertaining
• Guest room preparation
• Liaising with suppliers when required
• Supporting family arrivals and departures
• Occasional pet care if needed

Candidate Profile

The ideal couple will have:

• Previous experience in private households, luxury hospitality or yachting
• At least 3 years' experience in grounds maintenance and 2 years' housekeeping experience
• Excellent attention to detail
• A professional, discreet and flexible approach
• Strong organisational skills
• The ability to work independently and as part of a household team
• A dog-friendly attitude
• A full UK driving licence for at least one member of the couple
• The right to work in the UK

Working Hours

Groundsman

• Seasonal hours depending on the estate's requirements
• Occasional weekend working with time off in lieu

Housekeeper

• When the family is away: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm
• When the family is in residence: Flexibility required, typically 10-12 hour days, including weekends, with time off taken during the week

Package

• Salary to be discussed
• Pension
• Use of a work vehicle during working hours
• Long-term opportunity within a welcoming private household

Start Date: Mid-August

Enhanced background checks and excellent references will be required.

Salary: To be discussed at interview