Live-In Housekeeper, Cook/Chef & Companion Care
Location: Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, TN
Employment Type: Full-Time, Live-In Only
Compensation: up to $52,000 DOE annually, Plus Room and Board
Overview:
Update:
We have put a temporary pause on replying to candidates as dad is dealing with some healthcare issues, and he may or may not need a higher level of healthcare going forward.
Feel free to send us your information if you are interested, but please be aware we may not get back with you immediately.
Thank you for your understanding,
Henslee
Private family seeking an experienced Live-In housekeeper and cook/chef to support an active 93-year-old gentleman in his home on a 3,000-acre estate. This role combines the need for chef/cook, laundress, housekeeping, and respectful companion awareness (not hands-on nursing).
Our family is seeking a cheerful, good-humored steady, “old-fashioned” live-in person who is neat and well-groomed, flexible and adaptable, who is pleasant to work with. Dad is currently the sole resident of the house, but family members are sometimes present and are available for communication.
About Dad:
Our dad is 93 but very active and still involved in business, as well as activities like golfing and fishing. He values his independence and enjoys being self-sufficient.
We need someone who can:
• Be generally aware of his safety and well-being (for example, noticing if he seems dizzy or unsteady)
• Step in calmly and appropriately if help is needed, otherwise allow him respectful space
Dad is particular about his bedding and clothing, so attention to detail with ironing, wardrobe care, and linens is very important.
He also appreciates really good food — we are looking for someone who enjoys cooking and can prepare tasty, well-presented meals (semi-chef level home cooking is a big plus).
He has two large Weimaraner dogs, who are an important part of his life. Helping to care for the dogs is part of the job. He travels on occasion; during these times the live-in housekeeper would be primarily responsible for the dogs and household, and there is usually more personal downtime for you when he is away.
The Household
• Main house: 6 bedrooms / 6 bathrooms
• Guests and family visit periodically
• We entertain from time to time, so help with cooking and serving for small and sometimes larger groups is needed
• There are two guest houses on the property; occasionally you may help with guest house cleaning and laundry
• There is also a couple on the property who help with maintenance and other tasks, so being a team player is important.
Key Responsibilities
• Housekeeping & Laundry
• Daily cleaning and tidying of main living areas and Dad’s bedroom/bathroom
• Weekly deep cleaning of the home on a rotating basis
• Laundering dad‘s clothing and the house, linens.
• Excellent ironing and wardrobe care (shirts, trousers, jackets, etc.)
• Changing and maintaining high-standard bedding and towels
Cooking & Entertaining
• Prepare and serve meals
• Planning and preparing meals when family or guests are visiting
• Assisting with serving and cleanup during dinners and small gatherings
• Helping with occasional entertaining (decorating, buffet setup, appetizers, etc.)
Companion Awareness & Support
• Be aware of Dad’s general location and well-being without hovering
• Noticing if he appears dizzy, confused, or unsteady and assisting calmly if needed
• Respecting his routines, preferences, and privacy
• Communicating with family if you have concerns about his safety or health
Dog Care & Property Support
• Helping care for two large Weimaraner dogs (feeding, letting them out, basic care)
• Overseeing and caring for the dogs when Dad is away
• Occasional help with guest house cleaning and laundry
• Coordinating with the Management Working couple on property
Schedule & Time Off
This is a full-time live-in position. The schedule can vary somewhat based on Dad’s plans, guests, and events. When Dad travels, there is typically more flexibility and downtime for you, as long as the dogs and household are cared for. This is not a 9-5 job and some days/weeks may require very long hours. We can coordinate with the other onsite staff to cover duties for time off and vacation.
Compensation & Accommodations
• Salary: up to $52,000 DOE per year
• Room and board included (live-in accommodations in the main house)
Ideal Candidate
• Congenial, calm, courteous, good natured, steady, harmonious, and easy-going personality
• Enjoys cooking and serving up-scale dinners (breakfast and lunch are more simple and casual)
• Quiet and Respectful of an elder’s independence
• Strong housekeeping and ironing skills
• Loves dogs and is comfortable with large breeds
• Discreet, trustworthy, competent, and responsible professional
• No smoking or drinking strongly preferred
• Healthcare experience (e.g., CNA, home health, senior care, current CPR certification), are beneficial
• Previous experience in a private home, with seniors, or in similar roles is a plus
()The ideal person is proficient, capable, polished, friendly adaptable, self-motivated and accountable.
This is a long-term position on a beautiful 3,000-acre private estate in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Other:
-Henslee, (daughter), lives on the property and visits/joins for dinner most days.
-Caretaker couple also lives on property - manages & coordinates activities, scheduling, projects, etc.
-Additional property assistant also resides on property.
Each have separate residences.
How to Apply
Please send:
• A brief introduction about yourself and your experience
• Your work history and/or résumé
• At least two references
• Photos appreciated to help us get to know you
Please contact Henslee at:
Email:
NortonJobSearch@gmail.com
We thank you for your thoughtful application.