A houseman plays a pivotal role in maintaining the smooth operation and pristine appearance of high-end households or hospitality establishments. This job demands a keen attention to detail and a proactive approach to upkeep, cleaning, and basic maintenance tasks.
- Primary missions:
- Upkeep and cleaning
- furniture arrangement
- outdoor maintenance
- assisting in event setup
- minor repairs
- Generally live-in
- Salary: $20,000 – $30,000 a year
- Type of job: Domestic staff
A houseman is the backbone of household upkeep, ensuring every detail contributes to a seamless and luxurious living experience. This job combines versatility, diligence, and an eye for detail, catering to a high standard of comfort and aesthetics.
Duties and responsibilities
A houseman’s tasks and responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- General cleaning and maintenance of the household
- Arranging furniture and setting up rooms for events or daily use
- Conducting basic repairs and maintenance tasks
- Assisting with outdoor maintenance, including gardening and pool care
- Providing support during events, including setup and cleanup
- Ensuring all areas are stocked with necessary supplies
- Upholding the property’s standards of cleanliness and organization
- Assisting with shopping for groceries
How to Become a Houseman?
Education and qualifications
Prospective housemen can benefit from courses in hospitality, property maintenance, and customer service. Vocational training or certificates in facilities management can also be advantageous. Here are some examples of relevant education and specialized training:
- Hospitality Management Diploma: Offered by institutions such as the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration or the Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne.
- Facilities Management Certification: Programs like the Certified Facility Manager (CFM) credential offered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA).
- Technical Skills Training: Vocational schools and community colleges offer courses in basic carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and landscaping. For example, the National Technical Institute (NTI) or the Universal Technical Institute (UTI) provide hands-on training that is directly applicable to the daily tasks of a houseman.
- Customer Service Excellence Courses: Online platforms like Coursera or Udemy offer courses tailored to enhancing customer service skills, such as “Customer Service Fundamentals” or “Hospitality and Tourism Management”.
Required experience
Experience in housekeeping, maintenance, or in a similar role within hospitality or residential settings is often required to be hired as a houseman. Employers look for candidates who have a proven track record of reliability and attention to detail.
Required Human qualities and skills
Houseman is a good job for you if you are detail-oriented, have a strong sense of responsibility, and enjoy working in a service-oriented role. Excellent communication skills, adaptability, and a respectful approach to privacy are crucial. Good physical condition is also a prerequisite, since houseman’s work involves repairs, maintenance and the carrying of heavy loads.
Houseman resume example
John Doe
Johndoe@example.com
(248) 123-7654
linkedin.com/in/john-doe
Houseman
Dedicated and meticulous professional with over 5 years of experience in property maintenance and event setup. Proven ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently while upholding the highest standards of cleanliness and organization.
Work Experience
Houseman
Luxe Hotels & Properties (May 2019 – Present)
- Conducted regular household maintenance and cleaning tasks
- Assisted in the setup and breakdown of private events
- Managed outdoor landscaping and pool maintenance
Maintenance Assistant
Prestige Hospitality Group (June 2017 – May 2019)
- Performed basic repairs and maintenance
- Ensured all guest areas were clean and well-maintained
- Assisted in inventory management and ordering of supplies
Junior Houseman
Elite Hotel Services (January 2015 – June 2017)
- Supported senior staff in daily maintenance tasks
- Helped in the organization and cleanliness of the household
- Participated in staff training programs for continuous improvement
Skills
- Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality
- Excellent time management and organizational skills
- Proficient in basic repair and maintenance tasks
- Strong communication and customer service skills
Courses, Certifications, and Diplomas
Customer Service Excellence, Online Course, 2017
Facilities Management Certificate, Technical Institute of America, 2016
Work conditions
Being a houseman offers a dynamic and rewarding career path, providing the opportunity to work in luxurious environments and contribute to the high-quality standards expected by clients. This job offers variety in daily tasks and responsibilities, the satisfaction of maintaining beautiful properties, and the potential for building long-term relationships with employers.
A houseman has to be flexible as employers may need them early in the morning, at weekends and on holidays. Positions are generally live-in, but live-out jobs exist. This role is multifaceted and includes some unexpected aspects.
Testimonial from Michael, a houseman working for a large, luxurious estate in the Hamptons
“One sunny afternoon, during a large and extravagant garden party hosted by the estate owners, a sudden summer storm approached, threatening to ruin the meticulously planned event. As guests began to panic, I, along with the rest of the team, sprang into action. We quickly moved the entire setup indoors, rearranging furniture, adjusting decorations, and ensuring the comfort of all guests, all within a matter of minutes. The party was a success, and the hosts were deeply appreciative of our efforts to save the day. This experience taught me the importance of being prepared for any situation, the value of teamwork, and the satisfaction of ensuring the seamless enjoyment of our guests. It was a clear reminder that the role of a houseman extends far beyond simple maintenance tasks; it’s about creating an environment where every detail contributes to an unforgettable experience.”
Where can a Houseman work?
Housemen are in demand in both residential settings, such as private households and estates, and commercial establishments, including hotels, resorts, and corporate buildings.
Salary
Salaries for housemen can vary widely depending on the location, type of employer, level of experience, and specific job requirements. Generally, salaries range from $20,000 to $30,000 annually, with opportunities for higher earnings in more affluent areas or with more demanding responsibilities.
Houseman in a hotel or in a Household: What are the Differences?
The primary difference lies in the scope of duties and the working environment. In hotels, housemen often focus on guest areas, event setups, and general maintenance. In private households, the job may include more personalized tasks and a broader range of responsibilities tailored to the homeowner’s needs.
Similar jobs
Related jobs include private housekeeper, house manager and valet, each with distinct focuses and responsibilities.
Housekeeper
A housekeeper focuses primarily on cleaning and domestic tasks within a household, differing from a houseman’s broader maintenance and setup responsibilities.
House Manager
A house manager oversees the entire operations of maintaining a household, including strategic planning and complex repairs, a more administrative job compared to the hands-on nature of a houseman.
Valet
A valet provides personalized services and assistance to clients or guests, focusing more on service delivery and client interaction rather than maintenance and physical upkeep.
House Manager job perspectives
The demand for skilled housemen remains steady, especially in luxury markets and high-end hospitality. With the right experience and a commitment to excellence, housemen can look forward to stable employment opportunities and the potential for career advancement within household management or hospitality industries.
Frequently Asked Questions about Houseman job
What qualifications are needed to become a houseman?
Typically, a high school diploma is required to become a houseman, alongside experience in maintenance or housekeeping roles. Additional certifications in property management or hospitality can be beneficial.
Can housemen advance in their careers?
Yes, with experience and further education, housemen can advance to supervisory or management positions within facilities, hospitality, or estate management.
Is the houseman job suitable for someone without previous experience?
While prior experience is often preferred, entry-level houseman jobs are available. Candidates with a strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and adaptability can succeed in this role.
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