Housekeeper - Wiess President's House

Rice University•Houston, TX

7d•$24 - $26•Onsite

About The Position

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. 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. This position is exclusively in person, necessitating all duties to be performed in-person at the Wiess President’s House. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change. This role is classified as an essential position, requiring on-site presence to effectively carry out its vital functions. 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.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
2 years of related work experience
Extensive knowledge and skills regarding residential cleaning and the use of cleaning products
Ability and high commitment level to keep things clean and organized
Ability to organize workdays efficiently; takes initiative and self-motivated
Demonstrates a high energy level as well as the ability to maintain a busy schedule under general supervision
Desire and willingness to promote a welcoming, friendly, and respectful environment for family and guests
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Willingness to take direction, improve performance, and cooperate with other House Staff
Extraordinary ability to maintain discretion and confidentiality of all activities of the President and the President’s family.

Nice To Haves

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.

Responsibilities

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.
Assist catering staff or external vendors during special events.
Assist with seasonal décor, 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.