Private household staffing offers a rewarding career path for professionals who deliver excellence, discretion, and loyalty. Working inside the homes of high net worth (HNW) and ultra-high net worth (UHNW) individuals isn’t like working in hospitality or corporate environments—it’s more personal, more demanding, and more exclusive.
Whether you’re transitioning from luxury hotels, personal service roles, or looking for a new challenge, here’s how to break into the world of high net worth household staffing.
Understand What Makes Private Service Different
It’s Not Just a Job—It’s a Lifestyle
Household staff work in the private sphere of their employers. You may be present during family moments, high-profile events, or travel. Professionalism, trustworthiness, and emotional intelligence are just as important as your technical skills.
Discretion Is Paramount
Working with UHNW principals requires complete confidentiality. From household routines to guest lists, what you see and hear must stay private—always.
Most In-Demand Roles in HNW Households
- Housekeepers – Skilled in caring for fine materials, antiques, and luxury finishes
- Private Chefs – Versatile and wellness-focused, with fine dining experience
- Nannies – Experienced in child development, travel-ready, and discreet
- Estate Managers – Oversee multi-staffed properties and ensure seamless operations
- Butlers – Formal service professionals trained in etiquette and protocol
- Personal Assistants – Organize schedules, travel, correspondence, and logistics
- Chauffeurs and Security Staff – Often cross-trained in safety and discretion
Build the Right Experience
Luxury or Hospitality Backgrounds Translate Well
Many private staffing professionals begin in luxury hotels, private clubs, yachts, or premium concierge services. Experience with high expectations, formal service, and personalized care is highly transferable.
Seek Entry Points
If you’re new to private service, consider:
- Short-term contracts or seasonal placements
- Junior roles that allow you to learn from experienced staff
- Working with a family that is new to private staffing (less formal, more flexible)
Certifications That Strengthen Your Application
- CPR and First Aid – Required for most nanny and service roles
- Housekeeping or Laundry Care Courses – Focused on high-end materials
- Food Safety Certification – For chefs and anyone handling food
- Security Training – For drivers, protection staff, and estate professionals
- GUEST Program or Butler Training – For service excellence
- Early Childhood Education – A plus for childcare professionals
How to Present Yourself Professionally
Your Résumé Matters
Use a clean, one- to two-page résumé that highlights:
- Experience in luxury or service-oriented roles
- Long-term positions that demonstrate loyalty
- Discretion, reliability, and flexibility
- Household-specific skills: wardrobe care, travel coordination, service, or admin
Your Appearance Matters Too
First impressions count. Even for behind-the-scenes roles, candidates should present themselves professionally in interviews, trials, and even agency submissions.
Work With a Reputable Placement Agency
The fastest and most secure way into the UHNW world is through a specialized agency like The Estate Agency. We connect top-tier candidates with private households across the globe—and provide the support needed to succeed long-term.
Our Services Include:
- Career guidance and résumé development
- Matching you with the right household based on lifestyle and skills
- Trial placement coordination
- Ongoing support to help you thrive in your role
To begin your career in private household staffing, visit theestateagency.com and apply to join our exclusive candidate network.