Summary
Family Assistant / Assistant House Manager
Manhattan–Based | Private Household
We are seeking a highly organized, proactive Family Assistant / Assistant House Manager to support a busy, well-run private household with two residences in Manhattan and a nearby property in East Hampton. This role works closely with the family House Manager (Hamptons-based with bi-weekly trips to Manhattan) and acts as her trusted on-site support — serving as her eyes and ears when she is not physically present.
This is a dynamic, hands-on position ideal for someone with strong private service instincts, excellent communication skills, and the confidence to gently guide others while maintaining established standards.
The Role
This is a hybrid position combining household operations support and personal/family assistance. Responsibilities include:
- Acting as on-site support for the House Manager when she is off-site, ensuring standards and systems are consistently upheld
- Providing guidance and light supervision to the Manhattan housekeeping team based on the established guidelines and preferences
- Assisting with household organization, light property oversight, and day-to-day operational needs
- Supporting a household with three teenagers (not always in residence due to shared custody)
- Driving, running errands, scheduling appointments, managing calendars, and coordinating activities (sports, medical appointments, etc.)
- Basic food preparation for family dinners as needed
- Being guest-facing when principals or visitors are in residence, maintaining a warm, polished, and upbeat household presence
Residences & Logistics
- Primary focus is on two Manhattan apartments, where accommodation can be provided (private queen bedroom with ensuite)
- Occasional support related to the East Hampton property mostly during summer months, which is run by the Household Manager (former Senior Stewardess)
- A vehicle will be provided for errands
- Must hold a valid driver’s license
Schedule & Flexibility
- This role requires flexibility, including regular weekend work, with time off during the week
- Workload will fluctuate depending on the principal’s travel schedule — some weeks may be very light, similar to guest on/off periods in yachting
The Household
The principal is organized, respectful, and a pleasure to work for — clear communicator, appreciative of staff, and very familiar with high service standards from extensive experience aboard yachts. Systems, preferences, and expectations are well-documented, so you will never be left guessing.
You will work closely with an established, professional household team and another exceptional former stewardess who manages the East Hampton property and events.
The Ideal Candidate
- MUST be a US citizen or greencard holder
- Exceptionally organized, proactive, and calm under pressure
- Confident giving guidance to housekeeping staff using standards and guidelines set out by the House Manager
- Positive, upbeat, and personable — someone who enjoys being part of a household team
- Comfortable in a guest-facing role
- Background in private households or yachting strongly preferred
- Flexible, dependable, and service-oriented
Compensation
- Salary: $75,000–$80,000 annually + benefits
- Accommodation: Provided if desired
- Start Date: As soon as a suitable candidate is identified