Junior Butler

Job Description

Northumberland & Scottish Borders , Salary Competitive

Job Title: Junior Butler / House Assistant
Location: Northumberland & Scottish Borders
Position Type: Full-time, live-in or live-out (flexible depending on candidate)

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, 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 both properties
• Ensure both residences are maintained and ready for occupation at all times

Candidate Profile

• 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
• Hands on

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
• 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)
• Accommodation (if live in) with a small rent which will be reflected in salary offered. Council Tax and Utilities will be the responsibility of the tenant.