ABOUT THE JOB
This is a role for a warm, engaging Family Assistant who enjoys being a steady presence for a bright and energetic 8-yr-old boy, as well as supporting the household with light, general family assistance such as tidying/organization, house management, scheduling, and errands. The role is anchored around the child’s daily routine and transportation, with additional family support woven in to help two busy working parents keep their home & family life running smoothly.
This is not a formal household. It is a busy and family-focused environment where maturity, initiative, and a calm presence are highly valued. The person in this role should feel comfortable jumping in where needed and helping create structure and consistency. Someone who communicates clearly, is highly dependable, and enjoys engaging with children in a thoughtful, screen-free way will thrive in this position.
Schedule
The Family Assistant will support the child’s daily routine, including school drop-off and afternoon pick-up, after-school activities, homework, and early evening coverage until the mother returns home. Core coverage hours are 7am – 9am and 3pm – 7:30pm, Monday through Friday, with flexibility between to handle general household/family assistant tasks.
THE EMPLOYER
Both parents are busy professionals who are deeply involved in their child’s life and value structure, communication, and consistency. They are schedule driven and would appreciate someone who is naturally organized, keeps track of school and activity calendars, and communicates proactively.
The family lives in a multi-level six-bedroom home in Arlington, Virginia, two blocks from the metro, with a separately accessed apartment currently occupied by an au pair who will be departing in mid-March. They are open to either a live-in or live-out arrangement, depending on the candidate’s preferred living arrangements and flexibility. Their home is informal and family centered, with an emphasis on kindness and respect. They are looking for someone mature, calm, and grounded, who can help their child de-escalate by creating a sense of steadiness and serving as a positive role model.
The family employs a weekly housekeeper who handles the majority of cleaning. They would appreciate someone who is willing to assist with general tidying and organization, particularly as it relates to the child and shared family spaces.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Child/Caregiving
- Assist with morning routines, including helping the child get ready for school
- Drive the child to school (near Georgetown in DC) and ensure timely and safe transportation
- Pick the child up from school and transport him to home or after school activities
- Provide homework support and academic reinforcement as needed
- Keep the child engaged after school through screen free activities such as outdoor play and enrichment activities
- Support days off during school closures with engaging activities and outings
- Prepare simple meals and snacks for the child
- Maintain a calm, patient presence for a high-energy child
- Keep parents apprised of the child’s school/activity calendar and communicate any changes, needs, or concerns
Household/Family Assistance
- Handle home organization, tidying, dry cleaning and laundry
- Light daily housework (e.g. wiping countertops, emptying dishwasher, etc.)
- Help manage mail/packages, and basic household maintenance (e.g. changing lightbulbs)
- Perform various administrative duties (e.g. scheduling appointments, completing forms, researching and coordinating special projects)
- Help to plan and coordinate functions and activities for the family (birthday parties, playdates, family trips)
- Research vendors/services, assist with ordering supplies, unpacking suitcases and otherwise support household projects as needed
- Assist with seasonal organization, light shopping, and one-off errands
- Occasionally drive family members locally, as needed
- Serve as an overall extension of the parents while they are at work, exercising good judgment and communication
MUST HAVES
- Prior experience supporting a family with school-aged children
- Comfort driving daily, including into Washington, DC
- Calm, mature demeanor and the ability to handle high energy children
- Excellent communication skills and sound judgment
- Ability to manage schedules, transitions, and multiple priorities
- Takes initiative while respecting parental preferences
- Comfortable working independently
- Interest in enrichment activities such as music, sports, or languages
- Ability to start in early March to allow for training with the current au pair
Additional consideration for:
- Proficiency in Spanish or Russian is a plus
- Candidates with a personal vehicle. A family vehicle can be available if needed, though personal vehicle use is preferred. Vehicle costs for work-related usage will be covered.
ABOUT YOU
- You are steady, patient, and emotionally intelligent
- You enjoy working with children and take pride in being a positive influence
- You are organized, responsible, and good at anticipating needs
- You communicate clearly and value transparency
- You are energetic but know how to create calm and structure
- You respect routines and understand the importance of consistency
- You enjoy being part of a family environment
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
- Salary range of $70,000 to $85,000 (depending on experience and preferred living arrangement)
- 2 weeks paid time off (PTO) & sick days
- Federal holidays observed
- Healthcare support offered
- Vehicle costs covered (if using own vehicle)
- Live in arrangement can be considered for the right candidate
This position is listed by Old State Staffing, the Mid-Atlantic’s #1 referral agency for household, child & family-care, executive/personal support and family office staff. With over 40 years of experience placing exceptional candidates with successful families and individuals, we represent roles that are as dynamic and tailored as the families we support. Our principals value discretion, professionalism, and long-term success, and we provide candidates with insight, guidance, and ongoing support throughout the hiring process. Learn more at www.oldstatestaffing.com.
Pay: $70,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Application Question(s):
- Do you have prior experience supporting a family with school-aged children in a nanny, family assistant, or similar role?
- Do you have experience, proficiency, or fluency in either Spanish or Russian? (Not required)
- This role involves daily driving. Do you have access to a personal vehicle? (Not required)
*Access to a family vehicle can be provided if necessary.
*Vehicle related expenses will be covered.
- The family has a separately accessed apartment if candidates prefer live-in accommodations. Are you considering live-in opportunities? (Not required)
- Are you local to Arlington, VA or will you be relocating for this position?
Work Location: In person
