Groundsperson & Housekeeper Couple – Private Estate Rural Essex

An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an experienced and professional live-in Groundsperson & Housekeeper Couple to join a distinguished private family estate set within 27 acres of countryside near Chipping Ongar, Essex.

This is a long-term position ideally suited to a capable, discreet, and hands-on couple who take pride in delivering the highest standards across both household and estate management. The role offers a combined salary of £74,000, in addition to high-quality, self-contained accommodation.

About the Role

Working within a well-maintained country estate shared with extended family in a separate residence, this role requires a proactive and flexible couple who can seamlessly oversee both the interior and exterior operations of the property.

The successful candidates will play a key role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the household and grounds, maintaining an exceptional standard of presentation at all times.

Estate Overview

The property extends to approximately 27 acres and features:

• Established lawns and landscaped gardens
• Courtyards, terraces, and outdoor entertaining spaces
• A well-kept private residence within a peaceful rural setting

The Groundsperson will work collaboratively alongside two existing gardeners.

Key Responsibilities

Groundsperson:

• Oversee the ongoing maintenance of gardens and grounds
• Lawn care and general horticultural upkeep
• Maintenance and cleaning of patios, courtyards, and external areas
• Carry out general handyperson and basic property maintenance tasks
• Liaise with and oversee external contractors
• Prepare and maintain fireplaces
• Care for household metals, including brass and silver polishing
• Provide support during family events and gatherings
• Undertake occasional driving duties
• Maintain and clean family vehicles
• Assist with pet care and house sitting as required

Housekeeper:

• Maintain the interior of the residence to an exceptional standard
• Care for fine furnishings, artwork, and specialist fabrics
• Manage laundry, ironing, and wardrobe organisation
• Oversee household supplies and provisioning
• Support with entertaining, including event preparation
• Provide simple, high-quality family-style cooking when required
• Undertake shopping and household errands
• Care for two family dogs
• Provide house and pet sitting during periods of absence
• Occasional childcare support for visiting grandchildren

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience working as a domestic couple within a private household or estate
• Strong, well-rounded practical skill set across both disciplines
• Impeccable attention to detail and high personal standards
• A flexible, positive, and service-oriented approach
• Ability to work independently and integrate within an existing team
• Discreet, trustworthy, and professional at all times

Working Conditions

• Full-time, live-in position
• 5.5 day working week:

• Monday to Friday: 08:30–17:30
• Saturday: 08:30 – 13:00
• One-hour unpaid break daily
• Flexibility required in line with the needs of the household
• A varied role combining both indoor and outdoor responsibilities

Salary & Benefits

• Combined salary of £74,000
• Attractive two-bedroom, self-contained accommodation
• Council tax and utilities fully covered
• 22 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays
• Stable, long-term opportunity within a welcoming private estate

Location

Chipping Ongar, Essex, United Kingdom

How to Apply

Apply today to join one of the UK’s leading private estates. 

📞 Contact: Sara Yassin – 01233 733510
📧 Email: info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk

SALARY:        Combined salary of £74,000 plus accommodation

LOCATION:   Chipping Ongar, Essex

JOB No:            EC72440

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Thank you for the interest you have shown in this vacancy.  Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one.  Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this vacancy has been unsuccessful.

www.englishcountrygardeners.co.uk

We are proud to work with:

• the Professional Gardeners’ Guild
• the RHS
• the WFGA – offering the WRAGs Scheme
• Arne Maynard Garden Design
• Historic Houses
• the HBG Training Programme

Tagged as: Gardener, Gardener Housekeeper Couple, Groundsperson, handyperson, Housekeeper