House Manager & Family Assistant; Prep

House Manager & Family Assistant (with Meal Prep Support)

Location: San Marcos, CA 92078

Employment Type: Part-Time | 10–15 hours per week

Schedule: Flexible, 2–3 days per week, Monday through Friday, late morning to late afternoon

Compensation: $36–$40 per hour

Start Date: ASAP

• Reliable transportation and valid driver's license.
• Comfortable working around cats.
• Maintain a smoke-free environment.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

We're a warm, close-knit family of five living in San Marcos, CA. Our household has a relaxed but active rhythm — one parent works from home part of the time, and our kids span a wide range of ages and stages, from middle school to high school to away e moves quickly around here, and we love good food, a tidy home, and a calm, grounded atmosphere.

We're not a high-structure household, which means we're looking for someone who can bring a gentle sense of order without disrupting the natural flow of our home. We have cleaning support already in place, so the focus is less about deep cleaning and more about keeping things running smoothly day to day. Our biggest need is around meal planning, grocery shopping, and food prep — that's where we'd love someone to truly shine.

We value privacy, trust, and a strong sense of respect within our home. We are looking for someone who understands that balance: someone who can confidently take care of what needs to be done, communicate when needed, and comfortably work independently while becoming a trusted presence in our household.

The ideal candidate brings calm, grounded energy and a proactive but collaborative approach to their work. This role is a new type of support for our family, and we’re looking for someone who enjoys partnering with us to understand what will make our home run more smoothly, build thoughtful systems, and create routines that truly fit our family’s needs. You are someone who can take initiative and confidently move things forward, while also being comfortable taking direction, asking questions, and working together with us to determine priorities.

You notice what needs to be done and either take care of it independently or bring it to our attention when collaboration is needed. You are a clear communicator who knows when to step in, when to check in, and how to balance ownership with flexibility. The right person will work closely with one parent to help bring structure and consistency to the home, while also being comfortable shifting between independent tasks and collaborative planning.

You’re a solid home cook who genuinely enjoys the process of meal planning, grocery shopping, and batch prepping. You’re organized by nature and can help create simple, sustainable systems that support a busy family. You’re reliable, discreet, and deeply respectful of the fact that you’re working in someone’s personal space.

You are patient, encouraging, and comfortable connecting with children at different ages and stages. While this role supports the whole family, a meaningful part of the position will include spending additional time with our 12-year-old, providing attention, connection, and support as she navigates this stage of life. You bring a steady, positive presence and understand the importance of building trust, adapting to the needs of the family, and becoming a valued part of the household rhythm.

Meal Support

• Plan, shop for, and prepare 3 dinners and 2–3 lunches per week
• Batch cook when appropriate to set the family up for the week
• Accommodate dietary preferences, including vegetarian needs
• Maintain kitchen inventory and grocery lists
• Handle grocery shopping and related errands as needed

Household Organization & Maintenance

• Daily resets and tidying of high-traffic areas, surfaces, and dishes
• Create and maintain household organization systems that work for the whole family
• Support a school-age family member in building organizational habits, with patience and a calm, encouraging approach
• Handle mail and package management, including breaking down boxes
• Donation drop-offs as needed

Laundry & Linens

• Wash, fold, and organize laundry for the household
• Manage linens, and steam or iron as needed

Family Support

• Light supervision and backup childcare for a school-age child as needed
• Occasional driving for pickups and drop-offs
• Support with event, holiday, and guest preparation
• Occasional pet sitting when the family travels