Household Manager & Family Assistant (with Meal Prep Support)

Job title: Household Manager & Family Assistant (with Meal Prep Support)
Location:
Chicago, IL 60647
Employment Type:
Part-time | 20-25 hours per week | 20 hours guaranteed
Schedule:
Monday through Friday, approximately 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM. Some weeks may require additional hours, particularly during family travel. Occasional flexibility for morning drop-offs and evening support.
Compensation:
$38-$42 per hour
Start Date:
ASAP
Requirements
Maintain a smoke-free environment.
Must be authorized to work in the United States.
Reliable personal transportation and a clean driving record (mileage reimbursement provided); comfort with public transit is a strong plus.
Candidates are required to be up to date on recommended vaccinations in line with American Academy of Pediatrics and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines (including Tdap, MMR, Hepatitis A/B, COVID-19, and annual influenza), subject to applicable legal accommodations.
About Our Family
We're a busy family of four living in Chicago's Bucktown neighborhood with our two school-age kids and two beloved pets. We both work as attorneys, and while our careers can be demanding, especially during trial season or when travel comes up, we've worked hard to create a home that feels relaxed, welcoming, and lived in. Our kids are active, funny, and independent, with full schedules that include everything from breakdancing and tennis to skateboarding and neighborhood adventures.
Over the years, we've learned just how much of a difference the right household support can make. At this stage, we're looking for someone who enjoys creating order behind the scenes and can take ownership of the everyday logistics that keep our household running smoothly. We already have weekly house cleaners and a dog walker, so this role is less about deep cleaning and more about managing the details, staying a step ahead, and helping lighten the mental load so we can spend more time focused on our family.
Who You Are / What We're Looking For
You're someone who naturally notices what needs to be done and enjoys taking care of it. You're organized, dependable, proactive, and take pride in creating systems that make everyday life easier. Whether it's coordinating schedules, staying ahead of errands, or resetting the house after a busy day, you find satisfaction in helping things run smoothly without needing constant direction.
Just as importantly, you're warm, approachable, and genuinely enjoy being around kids. You're comfortable jumping between household management and after-school support, whether that's driving to activities, helping with homework, or simply bringing a calm, positive presence into the home. You're a strong communicator, reliable, and looking for a long-term role where you can become a trusted part of our family's daily life.
Key Responsibilities
Household Organization & Maintenance
Create and implement organizational systems throughout the home (e.g., closets, kids' rooms, art supplies, games, cords, storage areas, etc.)
Perform daily home resets and tidying with a focus on the kitchen counter and high-traffic zones
Assist with packing and unpacking for both work and family travel
Prepare home before weekly cleaners arrive
Manage seasonal clothing swaps for the kids (e.g., retiring outgrown sizes, organizing dressers and closets)
Perform proactive maintenance (e.g., change batteries, light bulbs, smoke detector batteries, air purifier filters)
Family Support
Provide light after-school supervision (e.g., helping kids transition into their afternoon routines, stay on task with homework, and get ready for activities)
Assist with school pickups at 3:45 PM 2-3 times per week
Prepare kids’ backpacks, materials, and snacks for the following day
Pack summer camp lunches (approximately 3 days per week during summer)
Transport kids to activities using the family vehicle or public transit
Supervise in-home lessons (such as piano) while managing other household tasks
Support morning drop-offs and additional coverage during family travel as needed
Inventory & Errands
Create and manage household running supply lists
Restock pantry, fridge, and household supplies
Oversee household subscriptions (e.g., Amazon, pet food, specialty food)
Manage Amazon and other returns, dry cleaning drop-off and pickup, and gift shopping (e.g., classmate birthday gifts, teacher gifts)
Handle mail and packages with discretion; break down and recycle boxes
Coordinate and manage donation drop-offs
Administrative & Personal Assistant Support
Manage the family household calendar, including kids' activities, appointments, and scheduling
Support travel planning, preparation, and logistics
Coordinate appointments and events as needed
Meal Prep Support
Perform grocery shopping at local markets (in-person preferred over delivery)
Batch prep ingredients and/or prepare simple meals for 3-4 dinners per week using family's recipe list or planned menus
Prepare healthy snacks and occasional school lunches as needed
Clean and maintain kitchen after food preparation
Laundry & Linens
Wash, fold, and put away household laundry (family clothing, kids' clothes, towels, and dish towels)
Properly handle delicates: hand-wash or run on delicate cycle and hang to dry
Maintain a tidy and well-stocked laundry area
Pet Care
Coordinate dog walker scheduling and dog daycare logistics
Schedule and accompany pets to vet and grooming appointments as needed
Administer pet medications (monthly heartworm prevention for the dog; occasional eye drops for the cat)
Maintain pet supply subscriptions; ensure food and supplies stay stocked
Manage litter box care
Coordinate all pet care logistics during family travel (interest in staying at the home during travel to care for pets is strongly preferred and may be compensated separately)
Deep Cleaning & Special Projects
Deep clean fridge and oven as needed
Perform occasional research projects (e.g., comparing cell phone service providers, phone plans, etc.)
Vehicle Upkeep
Research and establish a relationship with a local auto repair shop
Schedule and take the family vehicle in for routine maintenance
Arrange interior cleaning and exterior detailing as needed
Vendor & Property Oversight
Serve as on-site point of contact for service providers and repair appointments
Research and coordinate vendors for repairs beyond the existing handyman service
Water outdoor potted plants, flower beds, and tomato garden
How to Apply
Please submit:
A short introduction letter
Your updated resume
Three professional references with contact information
Note: This role requires a background check.
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