Private household-Animal and Grounds caretaker

Description

Role Overview

You will play a key role in maintaining the smooth daily running of the estate, with primary

responsibility for animal welfare, vehicle care, and upkeep of the grounds and property. The

role requires a hands-on, proactive individual who takes pride in high standards, enjoys

working outdoors, and can adapt to a varied workload that changes with the seasons and the

family’s needs.

Key Responsibilities

Animal Care,

Provide daily care for a range of animals, including dogs, chickens, ducks, a rabbit, and a

tortoise.

Feed animals, refresh water, and monitor health and behaviour.

Walk and exercise the dogs; ensure toilet breaks throughout the day.

Clean and maintain pens, coops, hutches, and pet houses (light daily cleaning and

weekly deep cleans).

Rotate animal areas or pasture as appropriate (ducks/chickens).

Check fencing and enclosures for security and make basic repairs where necessary.

Ensure all animals receive appropriate enrichment, grooming, and interaction.

Attend and assist with veterinary visits, hydrotherapy sessions (Wednesdays),

and vaccinations.

Maintain detailed feeding and health records and ensure supplies (food,

bedding, medicines) are stocked.

Ensure animal spaces are secure and fox-proof, and that all animals are safe

and well cared for at all times.

Vehicle & Driving Duties,

Maintain an extensive car collection, ensuring all vehicles are clean, fueled, and ready

for use.

Conduct daily vehicle checks (cleanliness, fluids, tyres, alignment, and condition).

Drive the family and guests as directed.

Valet and deep-clean vehicles weekly; rotate and run engines to maintain

battery condition.

Keep vehicles parked neatly in their designated spaces.

Refill fuel cans for machinery and pressure washers.

Ensure the work truck and any transport vehicles used for animals are kept clean

and organised.

Gardening & Grounds Maintenance,

Support daily outdoor upkeep, including sweeping paths, leaf blowing, removing

debris, and general tidying.

Mow lawns and trim edges seasonally.

Check and maintain garden equipment and machinery; refill fuel and perform

basic servicing.

Clean and organise sheds, workshops, and storage areas.

Chop kindling and restock firewood, coal, and fire starters weekly.

Maintain and tidy the BBQ area and outdoor furniture; ensure cushions and toys

(bikes, Toy Landers, etc.) are stored properly and charged.

Maintain the pond (drain, clean, and refill weekly or as required).

Check tennis court and pool area are clean, safe, and ready for use.

Assist with compost management, green waste disposal, and irrigation checks

in coordination with the gardeners.

Conduct seasonal tasks such as leaf collection, pruning, and machine maintenance.

General Maintenance & Property Support,

Carry out light maintenance and DIY tasks (painting touch-ups, tightening fixtures,

assembling furniture, etc.).

Inspect the property and estate buildings weekly for wear and tear or minor repair needs.

Liaise with external contractors for specialist work and oversee their progress to

ensure high standards.

Maintain clean and organised utility areas, garages, and tool storage.

Record and submit receipts or purchases for accounting purposes.

Monitor oil tank levels and report percentages weekly to designated staff.

Update the family (Leo/George) on maintenance or grounds concerns as needed.

Perform monthly deep cleaning of outbuildings, garages, and tool areas.

Restock repair materials, cleaning supplies, and household essentials.

General Household Assistance,

Run errands (shopping, deliveries, dry cleaning, etc.) and assist with household tasks

as requested.

Coordinate daily with household staff to ensure smooth estate operations.

Maintain fireplaces and restock logs and kindling.

Remain flexible and on-hand for ad hoc family needs or emergencies.

Maintain a high standard of cleanliness and organisation in all outdoor and service areas.

Ensure a positive, discreet, and professional presence on the estate at all times.

Key Requirements,

Confident driver with a clean driving record.

Physically fit and active, capable of manual and outdoor work in all weather conditions.

Genuine animal lover with a caring and responsible nature.

Flexible, adaptable, and comfortable with weekend work or last-minute changes.

Self-motivated, reliable, and organised with excellent attention to detail.

Professional, discreet, and trustworthy, with a respectful approach to family privacy.

Team player with a positive, hands-on attitude who enjoys varied daily responsibilities.

Basic understanding of vehicle care and garden machinery use preferred.

Summary

This is a diverse, hands-on position suited to someone who enjoys practical, outdoor work and

animal care within a private estate environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for

maintaining the highest standards of care, presentation, and reliability across all estate areas,

ensuring the smooth daily running of the property and comfort of the family.

Working Days: Monday to Friday

Hours: Monday-Tuesday 7:00 am – 4:00 pm, Wednesday - Friday 8:00am-5:00pm.

Flexibility: Flexibility required for occasional schedule changes

Holiday: 20 days annual leave + bank holidays (subject to principal’s approval)

Vehicle: Car provided for work duties (personal vehicle required for own use)

Salary: DOE

Ad ID: 5418026404