The Cook/Housekeeper is employed to ensure that the Lodge is maintained to the highest standard possible. The Lodge should be always kept in a state of preparation for occupancy, allowing for family/guests to arrive at short notice. It is, therefore, essential that the standard of service, cleaning and general maintenance of the Lodge is impeccable.
When the owner and guests are in residence their role will be largely kitchen based undertaking food preparation, meal/menu planning and management of food stocks, fridges and freezers in the Lodge in addition to organising shoot lunches (during low ground shoots) and elevenses during the season.
This role requires a high level of healthy cooking, to dinner party standard, but does not need to be of a ‘full chef’ level. Fresh produce is grown on the Estate, so someone that is used to making jams/marmalades/etc., and that is used to using all ingredients and ensuring minimal waste. This is a shooting estate, so experience in this area is of benefit, but not essential.
When the Principals are not in residence then general day to day duties of maintaining the Lodge in good, clean working order, thereby ensuring correct standards and practices are maintained. They should develop a well-ordered routine for daily tasks during family visits, and an in-depth programme to include specific tasks when the house is unoccupied. This is working alongside another Housekeeper and other household staff, whilst maintaining a sunny and upbeat disposition.
Must be able to drive. Please note this role is in the Borders of Scotland and the location is remote.
Hours of Work
Principals not in residence 08:00 to 16:00 with 5 days on and 2 days off out of 7. Generally, Mon – Fri.
Principals in residence Whatever hours are required to fulfil the criteria of the position. It is understood that weekends will be worked when Principals are in residence.
Duties
General Responsibilities (During Family Visits):
- Reporting to House Manager as line manager
- Cook and prepare food for the family and their guests
- Laundering as follow:
- Family and guest laundry
- Bed and table linen
- To take clothes/linen to the dry cleaners as instructed
- Bed linen should be changed at least every four days or more frequently when necessary, and on changeover of guests
- Turn down procedure when family/guests in residence:
- Curtains closed, lights on and beds turned down
- When family in residence bottled water to be placed in suites and replenished as and when required (sometimes twice daily)
- Driving for shopping and other Estate duties as required
- Table service – though usually only for when the main Principal is in residence
- Organising and managing private Lodge functions and shoot lunches in association with Estate Management and relevant staff.
General Responsibilities (between visits):
- Reporting to House Manager as line manager
- Maintain a record and stock check of food produce in the Lodge to ensure efficient use of ingredients and minimising wasted product
- Maintain a programme of thorough, regular, ‘Spring Cleaning’ throughout the Lodge
- Polishing and buffing of the wooden floors with the help of other Lodge staff
- The cleaning of the inside of the windows including their thresholds
- All taps should be turned on and run and toilets flushed at least once a week
- Reporting and responsible to the House Manager/Factor on all administrative matters
- Ensure the cleaning products and toiletry store-rooms are sufficiently stocked. Stock control record to be updated on a monthly basis
- Any breakages and damages to items from the household should be reported to House Manager
- Close communication with House Manager/Factor regarding any maintenance and repairs required
- Monitor contractors in the house and ensure their work is carried out in a tidy fashion
- Monitor the house perimeter and ensure that paintwork and window ledges are kept clean and cobweb free and that pathways are swept and tidy at all times
- Security: Report any incident details to the House Manager/Factor
- Flower arranging and care of houseplants
- Additional lodges – should be kept clean and tidy at all times as use for overflow / additional accommodation
- Assist with ensuring the Lunch huts are clean and tidy, fires are working and fire wood available prior to the shoot season in August.
PACKAGE
- Up to £35k salary dependant on experience
- 28 day holiday inclusive of bank holidays
- Statutory pension
- Accommodation provided
- All utilities paid for.
Please apply with CV.