£42,000 Gross Per Annum | Live-In | Two-Bedroom Cottage Provided | Pets Welcome
Burlington Nannies is delighted to be assisting a longstanding private client in the beautiful Sussex countryside with the appointment of an experienced and dependable Handyman / Maintenance / Groundsman.
Set within a substantial private family estate in Pulborough, this varied position offers the opportunity to become an integral part of an established household and estate team, ensuring the Manor House, grounds and surrounding facilities are maintained to an excellent standard.
The successful candidate will be practical, proactive and highly organised, with a genuine pride in their work and the ability to manage a broad range of maintenance, groundskeeping and security responsibilities.
A charming two-bedroom cottage within the estate grounds is provided, and pets are welcome.
The Position
Working closely with the House Manager, Estate Manager and wider household team, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day upkeep, presentation and smooth running of the property.
This is a hands-on role requiring flexibility, discretion and a willingness to assist wherever needed. The ideal candidate will be equally comfortable carrying out general repairs, maintaining outdoor facilities, coordinating contractors and responding to occasional security matters.
Key Responsibilities
Property Maintenance & Repairs
Carry out general repairs, preventative maintenance and decorative touch-ups throughout the Manor House and estate.
Conduct regular property inspections, identifying and resolving maintenance issues promptly.
Check household systems, including lighting, heating, climate control, televisions and entertainment systems.
Coordinate and oversee visiting contractors, ensuring work is completed efficiently and with minimal disruption to the family.
Assist with the maintenance of heating systems, air handlers, filters and other essential equipment.
Arrange servicing and repairs for household appliances and machinery.
Grounds & Outdoor Facilities
Maintain the presentation and cleanliness of outdoor terraces, pathways, driveways and external areas.
Prepare garden furniture, cushions and outdoor entertaining spaces according to the season and weather.
Oversee swimming pool maintenance, including cleaning, water testing and pump operation.
Maintain the tennis court, pavilion, BBQ and pizza oven facilities.
Undertake regular inspections of garden lighting, fencing and estate boundaries.
Assist with seasonal preparations, including fireplaces, log supplies and outdoor equipment storage.
Support the upkeep and organisation of garages, storage buildings and other estate facilities.
Security & Estate Support
Participate in the estate's on-call warden rota, responding promptly to alarms, power interruptions and other security matters.
Monitor security systems and carry out routine checks of CCTV equipment and estate boundaries.
Liaise with external security and maintenance contractors when required.
Assist with inspections and security checks across additional estate properties.
Work collaboratively with the House Manager and Estate Manager to identify improvements and future maintenance requirements.
Additional Household & Estate Duties
Ensure household vehicles are clean, fuelled and ready for use, including routine fluid and tyre checks.
Coordinate vehicle servicing, MOTs and repairs as directed.
Assist with deliveries, waste management and general household logistics.
Undertake occasional local driving duties and school runs when required.
Assist with the care and feeding of estate animals, including horses, Highland cattle and chickens, when requested.
Provide occasional support to the estate's car collection mechanic.
The Ideal Candidate
We are seeking a trustworthy, capable and self-motivated individual who enjoys the variety and responsibility of working within a private estate.
You will ideally offer:
Previous experience in private household maintenance, estate maintenance, groundskeeping or a similar hands-on position.
Strong practical maintenance and general repair skills.
Confidence working with household equipment, machinery and outdoor facilities.
A proactive approach to identifying and resolving problems.
Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
The ability to work independently while communicating effectively with the wider household team.
A discreet, respectful and professional manner when working around the family.
Flexibility regarding working hours, weekend duties and on-call responsibilities.
A full driving licence and confidence undertaking occasional driving duties.
A genuine appreciation for countryside living and working within a private estate.
Experience with swimming pool maintenance, security systems and larger country properties would be particularly advantageous.
Working Hours & Accommodation
This is a full-time, live-in position, working five days per week on a rotating schedule.
Working hours: 8.5-hour shifts scheduled between 8am and 8pm.
Working days: Five days per week, Monday to Sunday, according to the rota.
Weekends: Some weekend work will be required.
On-call duties: Participation in the estate's warden rota, approximately every third night.
Accommodation: A private two-bedroom cottage situated within the estate grounds.
Pets: Welcome, making this a particularly appealing opportunity for candidates with their own pets.
Salary: £42,000 gross per annum.
Due to the security responsibilities associated with the position, the successful candidate will be expected to coordinate any overnight absences from the estate with the House Manager.
A Wonderful Countryside Opportunity
This is an attractive opportunity for an experienced and versatile maintenance professional seeking a long-term position within a beautiful, established private estate.
Offering a competitive salary, independent accommodation and a varied working environment, the role would particularly suit someone who enjoys countryside living, values teamwork and takes genuine satisfaction in keeping a property running smoothly.
To apply, please contact Burlington Nannies with your CV and details of your relevant experience.