Live-In Domestic Couple- Gold Coast - Chicago, IL

Busy professional is seeking a live-in domestic couple for an estate located in downtown Chicago, IL 60610.  The estate is a fully staffed formal household. This search is open to out of state candidates as well as local candidates and is for a full-time long-term position. Minimum 2 years of work experience in a fine home or an estate is a must. Formal education (in meal preparation) is preferred, but not required.

This employer offers flexible living arrangements, so the position is a possibility for a domestic couple that is a married couple as well as a domestic couple formed by two professional partners (not a married couple). A domestic couple of a Private Chef/Houseman would be ideal, but other combinations are also possible. 

This is a Perfect Position for:

-        A domestic couple (married couple) as well as professional partners (not a married couple)

-        Local Chicago candidates and out-of-state candidates

-        A domestic couple with minimum 2 years of experience working in a fine home and/or an estate environment, carrying out all cooking and home maintenance responsibilities

-        A domestic couple who understand etiquette, decorum, and being an “invisible hand”

-        A domestic couple who has a seamless partnership and work ethic, understanding how to support and operate together, but also independently

-        A partnership that is truly dedicated to service, and their work in the domestic industry including working with the utmost discretion, confidentiality, and professionalism

-        Individuals who value attention to detail, exceptional service, and possess a “can do” attitude

-        A live-in partnership that can anticipate and problem solve

Compensation Package:

-        Annual combined salary of $80-$110K, or $40-$55K per individual

-        Entirely separate living quarters, furnished with a kitchen, full bathroom, living room, and bedroom

-        Vehicle is provided for work-related responsibilities and personal use

Responsibilities and Duties

• Responsible for the smooth running of a household and servicing of Principal and guests
  • On occasion supervising others but mainly providing service in any number of capacities
• Working with the Principal’s Estate Manager (EM) and Executive Assistant (EA) to help oversee outside contractors, services and suppliers
• Maintenance of the property on regular and routine basis
  • To include but not limited to season cleaning and preparation of residences
• Regular interaction with EM to maintain direct communication and compliance of principals and guests needs
• Serving of refreshments and meals
  • Setup and coordination of formal and informal events
• Care and serving of wines and other libations
• Primarily responsible for cleaning
  • Exterior clean-up and minor maintenance/repair projects not requiring contractor
  • Cleans and cares for the entire inside of the house
  • Responsible for the cleanliness of all interior surfaces and items, as well as laundering

and ironing of clothes and linens

• Maintaining fine silver, china, antiques, and other household and estate items (such as fine cars)
• Other duties depend upon principal’s needs may also be called upon to perform the duties of a valet, chef, housekeeper, dog walker and chauffeur
  • An expansion of duties will include errands
  • Cooking of simple meals
  • Perform shopping
  • Guest reception
  • Non managerial interaction with vendors
• Take care of all matters relating to the purchasing of foods and associated commodities, menu planning, preparation, cooking and presentation of food
• Cleaning of their utensils and workspace
• Packing and unpacking suitcases for travel
• Care of garments, laundry and ironing
• Handyman skills and hands-on caring for vehicles and other equipment or material
• Knowledge of cleaning techniques

Qualifications and Skills

• Valid Driving License
• Knowledge of etiquette and protocol at all times
• Professional training in cooking
• Training and supervision of other domestic staff
• Formal service of fine wines and food
• Ability to represent the household from telephone manner to reception of guests
• Knowledge of caring for fine arts, antiques, silver, china, cars and fabric
  • Knowledge of cleaning techniques
• Eye for detail and ability to anticipate
• Experienced in delivery of thoughtful, discreet and unobtrusive service
• Demonstrated discretion and confidentiality
• Above all, a “get it done” attitude…ready to pitch in and resourceful.

Important: Household includes 1 dog (this position is not an option for applicants who have allergies to dogs).

Objective

To serve the employee as the employer chooses to be served.  Actively seek to determine the principal’s preferred style of service, while maintaining a comfortable, safe and secure environment at all times.  Perform all duties diligently, impartially and responsively to the best of your abilities.  Keep all confidences regarding employer and staff and abide by the highest ethical, moral and legal standards.