Domestic Couple
Overview
Set in the rolling Wiltshire hills, this breathtaking private estate is a place of rare beauty, sweeping parkland, mature woodland, and timeless countryside views that change with every season.
We are seeking a talented and committed Domestic Couple (Housekeeper and Operations Manager OR Maintenance Worker) to become part of the close-knit team that keeps this exceptional estate running like clockwork.
You’ll join an established household that includes Housekeepers, Gardeners, Estate Workers and Gamekeepers, all working in harmony to care for this magnificent property; no two days quite the same, and every corner of the estate a chance to take real pride in your work.
The successful couple will enjoy their own private two bedroom cottage on the estate.
Job duties
Responsibilities of the Housekeeper responsibilities are:
- Keep the house immaculate, from daily cleaning and laundry to ironing, ensuring every room reflects the elegance of the estate
- Maintain stock levels and ensure all areas — from grand reception rooms to private quarters — are kept in pristine order
- Handle fine fabrics, antiques and treasured items with the care and expertise they deserve
- Work closely with the wider household team to keep the estate running seamlessly
Responsibilities of the Operations Manager, include:
- Lead and manage the estate’s day-to-day operations team
- Supervise routine estate activities
- Order routine supplies and services (fuel, oil, waste collection)
- Assist with general maintenance tasks
- Plan, budget, and support construction and special projects
- Advise and support the Estate Manager
- Maintain estate infrastructure, buildings, and amenities
- Oversee estate security, vehicles, and services
- Engage across the estate, including leisure facilities, arable farm, woodland, lakes, bees, chickens, and game/shoot management
- Drive cost-efficiencies
- Uphold health and safety standards
- Lead by example and develop the team
- Cover weekend support for Principals on a rota
- Arrange specialist contractors as needed
- Build skills across all aspects of the estate
OR Maintenance Worker, include:
- Manage / deliver major works projects (e.g., roofing, external redecoration, structural repairs, plumbing, re-wiring) in line with quality, safety, and budget requirements
- General upkeep and repairs across the estate — from joinery and painting to plumbing and electrical work
- Getting to know the inner workings of the estate, from heating and water systems to the swimming pool, and solving problems as they arise
- Fencing, groundworks and general grounds care
- Caring for the estate’s animals, including rabbits, chickens and cattle
- Keeping estate vehicles and machinery in good working order
- Embracing a constantly evolving range of tasks with curiosity and a willingness to learn
- Supporting the estate owners with whatever else the role calls for, day to day
Candidates must be/have:
- A minimum of 2 years’ experience as a Domestic Couple within a Private Household/Estate
- Maintenance Person: Proven experience managing or delivering major works projects (e.g., roofing, external redecoration, structural repairs, plumbing, re-wiring)
- A sharp eye for detail and the confidence to work independently
- Excellent organisational and time-management skills
- A genuine team player, with strong communication and a collaborative spirit
- A proactive, can-do attitude and real enthusiasm for the variety the role offers
- Ideally, both candidates hold valid driving licences
- Flexible team players, able to adapt to the rhythms and needs of estate life
Accommodation
A two-bedroom cottage on the estate, plus a vehicle provided for work-related duties.
Hours
Operations Manager or Maintenance Worker: Monday to Friday, with on-call duties on alternating weekends, aligned with the housekeeping rota.
Housekeeping: Five days per week.
Location
Near Shaftesbury, on the stunning Dorset/Wiltshire border.
Salary
Competitive, depending on experience.
Job ref
CP1060: Domestic Couple (Housekeeper and Operations Manager or Maintenance) for Private Estate in Wiltshire.
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