House Manager & Family Assistant

Location: Winnetka, IL 60093

Employment Type: Part-time | 20–25 hours per week (20 hours guaranteed)

Schedule: Monday through Thursday, approximately 1:30–6:30 PM; occasional Fridays with advance notice.

Compensation: $32-$38 per hour, commensurate with experience

Start Date: ASAP

Requirements

• Previous experience supporting families in a household role (household manager, family assistant, nanny, etc.)
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs for limited periods
• Ability to navigate multiple flights of stairs throughout the day
• Reliable transportation to and from work; valid driver's license; clean driving record (family vehicle available for on-the-job driving)
• Candidates are required to be up to date on recommended vaccinations in line with American Academy of Pediatrics and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines (including MMR and Tdap), subject to applicable legal accommodations
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred
• Ability to maintain a smoke-free environment
• Must be authorized to work in the United States

About Our Family

We're a busy, close-knit family of four living in the northern suburbs of Chicago. Both parents commute downtown four days a week, so afternoons are when our home really comes to life! Between the kids getting home from school, walking the dog, pulling dinner together, and keeping up with the little things that make a household run, there's always something happening. We value having a home that feels organized, welcoming, and relaxed, even on the busiest days.

Our two middle schoolers are growing in independence and are comfortable managing many of their own schedules, but they still appreciate having a warm, dependable presence around to help keep things on track. We also have a four-year-old golden retriever who is as sweet and easygoing as they come. He's a beloved part of the family and an easy addition to the daily routine. We've been fortunate to have wonderful household support in the past and have a good sense of what works for our family.

We're easygoing, practical, and appreciate someone who naturally notices what needs to be done and takes ownership without waiting for direction. At the same time, we're always open to fresh ideas and suggestions that could make our routines and home life even better. Ultimately, we're looking for someone who can bring a little structure and a lot of thoughtfulness to our afternoons — helping with meals, errands, the kids' schedules, and the day-to-day details so that when everyone gets home, things feel a little more settled and a lot less hectic.

Who You Are / What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate is someone who walks into a home and just gets it — they notice what needs doing and handle it, whether that's starting a load of laundry, throwing something in the car for the dry cleaner, or making sure there's a solid dinner on the table. You're calm and grounding by nature, and you bring that steadiness with you every day. You have genuine experience working in private households and understand the rhythms of family life without needing to be trained on the basics.

You're confident enough to act without asking permission for every small task, and wise enough to know when to check in. You're warm and nurturing with middle-school-aged kids — not in an overbearing way, but in a way that makes them feel supported. You bring ideas when you have them, stay flexible when plans change, and communicate clearly without overcomplicating things. If this sounds like you, we'd love to meet you.

Key Responsibilities

Family Support & Child Assistance

• Afternoon pick-ups and drop-offs for after-school activities (all within approximately 15 minutes)
• Light supervision and back-up childcare as needed for middle school-aged children
• Help kids prepare backpacks, water bottles, and sports gear for the next day
• Gently reinforce household expectations (homework, chores, screen time) with a calm, supportive approach
• Kid-related errands as needed
• Maintain general awareness of the family calendar to support meal planning and activity coordination

Meal Planning & Prep

• Plan and prepare 3–4 family dinners per week: healthy, well-balanced meals
• Prep approximately 3 school lunches per week for the kids
• Grocery shop in person 1–2 times per week; occasional online orders
• Maintain a tidy, organized kitchen; clean up after meal prep

Household Management & Organization

• Maintain existing household organization systems
• Daily resets to keep the home tidy and prepared for the weekly cleaner
• Light tidying throughout the day: dishes, surfaces, high-traffic areas, dog hair
• Seasonal clothing, décor, and bedding swaps
• Coordinate donation drop-offs and returns
• Event, holiday, and guest prep (sleepovers, family gatherings, travel)
• Packing and unpacking support for family travel
• Occasional indoor plant care
• Replace batteries, light bulbs, and smoke detectors as needed

Laundry & Linen Care

• Wash, fold, and organize family laundry
• Rotate bath mats and bathroom towels weekly
• Keep laundry areas tidy and well-stocked

Inventory & Errands

• Restock pantry, fridge, and household supplies
• Maintain a running household shopping list
• Handle returns, dry cleaning, gift shopping, and miscellaneous errands (pharmacy runs, etc.)
• Bring in mail and packages; break down boxes

Pet Care

• Daily afternoon walk and feeding the family's dog; kids assist once home
• Schedule and transport dog to vet and grooming appointments

Vehicle Management

• Take family vehicles for scheduled maintenance, car washes, and fueling
• Keep vehicles clean and organized

Vendor & Property Oversight

• Serve as the point of contact when contractors or service providers are on-site
• Flag any repair or maintenance needs to the family's attention
• Occasional watering of outdoor potted plants during warmer months

Deep Cleaning & Special Projects

• Periodic deep cleaning of the fridge, oven, and baseboards
• Occasional mudroom refresh and reorganization

How to Apply

If this sounds like the right fit, please send the following to be considered:

• A short intro letter telling us about yourself and why this role appeals to you
• An updated resume
• Three professional references with names, relationship, and contact information

Please note: this role requires a background check.

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