Housekeeper
The Housekeeper is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness, organization, and overall presentation of the Rice University President's official residence. This role ensures the home reflects the highest standards of care, supporting both the private living environment of the President and his family, and the professional use of the residence for hosting events, receptions, and guests of the University.
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, discreet, and professional, with a strong commitment to service and hospitality. They should be experienced in high-standard residential housekeeping, including care of fine furnishings, delicate surfaces, and event support. Flexibility and reliability are essential, as the position occasionally requires adjusting to special functions, visitors, and irregular schedules. The candidate should demonstrate excellent judgment, confidentiality, and the ability to anticipate needs with minimal direction.
Workplace Requirements
- This role takes place in a large private residence that also functions as a professional hosting space. Candidates must be comfortable working in both private household and event settings.
- Standard workdays will be Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays with shift arrival / departure times as requested by President and Mrs. DesRoches. However, flexibility is required to accommodate evening, weekend, or holiday events. Occasional overtime may be necessary during periods of high activity.
- The role requires regular standing, walking, bending, lifting (up to 2530 lbs.), reaching, and handling cleaning equipment. Must be able to move quickly and efficiently during standard tasks and event preparations.
- Compliance with safety procedures, cleaning product handling, and household security standards is required. Protective equipment and all products necessary to complete tasks will be provided.
- A neat, professional appearance is always required. A uniform will be provided to maintain a polished household standard.
- This position is exclusively non-remote, necessitating all duties to be performed in-person at the Wiess President's House.
Hiring Range
This is a part-time, benefits-eligible position, and the proposed salary range is $24.00 - $26.00 per hour. This is a non-exempt, hourly position.
Non-Exempt (hourly) positions under FLSA are eligible for overtime.
Minimum Requirements
High school diploma or equivalent4+ years related work experienceSkills
Extensive knowledge and skills regarding residential cleaning and the use of cleaning productsAbility and a high commitment level to keep things clean and organizedAbility to organize workdays efficiently; takes initiative and is self-motivatedDemonstrates a high energy level as well as the ability to maintain a busy schedule under general supervisionDesire and willingness to promote a welcoming, friendly, and respectful environment for family and guestsExcellent verbal and written communication skillsWillingness to take direction, improve performance, and cooperate with other House StaffExtraordinary ability to maintain discretion and confidentiality of all activities of the President and the President's family.Preferences
Prior experience in estate management, executive residences, or luxury hotels.Training or certification in hospitality, housekeeping, or a related field.Experience supporting events, including setup and guest service.Familiarity with effective cleaning products and practices.Essential Functions
Maintain and clean all rooms, furnishings, fixtures, and surfaces with attention to detail and preservation of materials.Perform laundry services, including care of fine linens and garments.Support household organization, inventory, and supply management.Assist with event preparation, setup, and cleanup as needed.Adhere to high standards of discretion and confidentiality given the visibility of the residence.The ability to work evenings or weekends as necessitated by the President's House schedule.Physical ability to perform housekeeping tasks, including lifting, bending, and extended periods of standing or walking.Additional Functions
Assist catering staff or external vendors during special events.Assist with seasonal dcor, floral arrangements, or holiday preparations.Support minor household organization projects (e.g., closets, pantries, storage areas).Assist with inventory management and reporting maintenance issues to the appropriate staff.Participate in occasional household meetings or training sessions.Rice University HR | Benefits
Rice Mission and Values
Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. If an applicant requires a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please contact Rice University's Disability Resource Center at 713-348-5841 or adarice@rice.edu for support. If you have any additional questions, please email us at jobs@rice.edu.