Primary: Private Residence, Northumberland
Secondary: Private Residence, Scottish Borders
Role Overview
A highly organised, discreet, and proactive Junior Butler is sought to support the smooth day-to-day running of a historic private household based at Northumberland, with regular travel to a secondary residence in the Scottish Borders. This is a varied, hands-on role suited to someone at the early stages of their private service career who is keen to develop their skills across formal service, household operations, and estate support.
Key Responsibilities
Household & Butlering Duties
- Assist with formal and informal service, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and events
- Support senior household staff in maintaining high presentation standards throughout the residence
- Lay and clear tables to a high standard, with attention to detail and correct etiquette
- Care for silverware, glassware, china, and antiques
- Assist with guest preparation, including room set-up and welcome arrangements
Household Operations
- Maintain cleanliness and organisation of front-of-house areas
- Assist with inventories, household supplies, and stock rotation
- Support laundry processes where required, including handling delicate or specialist fabrics
- Ensure all household areas are presented to a consistently high standard
Dog Care & Pet Sitting
- Daily care of household dogs, including feeding, grooming, walking, and general wellbeing
- Pet sitting when principals are travelling or unavailable
- Coordination of veterinary visits and grooming appointments as required
- Maintaining cleanliness of pet areas and equipment
Driving & Vehicle Care
- Drive principals, guests, or staff as required between residences or for local engagements
- Ensure vehicles are maintained in excellent condition, including: regular washing, interior cleaning, and basic checks (fuel, tyre pressure, etc.)
Travel Between Residences
- Assist with preparation, packing, and logistics when moving between Northumberland and the Scottish Borders property
- Ensure both residences are maintained and ready for occupation at all times
Candidate Profile
Essential Skills & Attributes
- Previous experience in hospitality or private households preferred but not essential
- A strong willingness to learn and develop within private service
- Excellent attention to detail and a proactive approach
- Discreet, trustworthy, and professional manner
- Comfortable working in a team and taking direction from senior staff
- Physically fit and capable of a hands-on role
Practical Requirements
- Full UK driving licence (essential)
- Comfortable with dogs
- Flexible approach to working hours, including weekends and occasional travel
- Eligibility to work in the UK
Desirable Qualities
- Interest in heritage properties or historic households
- Basic knowledge of formal service etiquette
- Experience with vehicle care or detailing
- A genuine interest in long-term career progression within private households
What’s Offered
- Opportunity to work within a prestigious historic environment
- Hands-on training and development in private service
- A varied and engaging role across two unique residences
- Competitive salary (dependent on experience) up to GBP 34k gpa
- Accommodation (if live-in), separate and independent
Please note that only suitable candidates for this role will be contacted. Interviews and meetings are by appointment only.