Domestic Couple – Groundsman & Housekeeper in Dorset

A private family is seeking an experienced and proactive Domestic Couple to join and support the running of their beautiful country residence in Dorset - near Bridport. The property serves as a second home and is occupied for approximately 18 weeks of the year, together with occasional weekends and holiday periods.

The family consists of two principals and their teenage children. Whilst the property is not occupied year-round, standards are expected to remain consistently high.

The successful couple will be responsible for maintaining both the house and grounds to an exceptional standard (approximately 7 acres estate), working closely with and reporting to the House Manager. This is a hands-on role requiring adaptability, discretion and a genuine pride in delivering a well-presented home and estate.

Groundsman Responsibilities

• Lawn care and maintenance


• Hedge cutting and pruning


• Planting and seasonal garden care


• Vegetable garden and fruit tree management


• Pond, river and weir maintenance


• Paddock upkeep


• Tree maintenance and monitoring


• Log cutting, storage and fire preparation


• Fire building and management during family stays


• Storm preparation, recovery and estate safety checks


• Operation and maintenance of garden machinery and equipment


• Basic estate repairs and maintenance


• Vehicle care and support duties as required


• Security and routine property checks


• Management of external contractors where appropriate


• Assisting with family arrivals and departures

Housekeeper Responsibilities

• Full housekeeping and cleaning


• Laundry and ironing


• Wardrobe organisation and management


• Household inventories and stock control


• Household organisation and storage management


• Care of household furnishings and finishes


• Provisioning and household shopping as required


• Assisting in light meal preparation


• Assistance with informal entertaining and dinner parties


• Guest room preparation


• Liaison with suppliers and contractors in the absence of the House Manager


• Assisting with family arrivals and departures


• Occasional pet care support if required

The ideal couple will demonstrate:

• Previous experience working within private households, luxury hospitality or yachting environments


• A minimum of 3 years’ experience for the Groundsman role


• A minimum of 2 years’ experience for the Housekeeper role


• Ability to work independently and as part of a wider household team


• Dog-friendly attitude


• Valid driving licence for at least one member of the couple


• Existing right to work in the United Kingdom

Groundskeeper working hours

Due to the nature of the role, the working hours are seasonal. Occasional weekends may be required, for which time off in lieu will be given

Housekeeper Working Hours

When the family is not in residence: Monday to Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm

When the family is in residence: Flexibility required 10–12 hour working days

Weekend working will be required during occupancy periods, with days off during the week taken instead

Accommodation: may be available for the successful candidates if required/ Principals open to a live out local couple

Salary: Starting from £60K gross per year combined

Start Date: Mid-August

References and enhanced background checks will be required for the successful applicants.

Unless otherwise specified a minimum of 2 years relevant experience is required to receive the advertised rate of pay.

Randolphs is an employment agency and employment business authorized to advertise the role on behalf of our client.