Main purpose of job:

The British Government’s Embassy in Washington D.C. has an exciting opportunity for a person to join the Head of British Defence Staff (BDSUS) Private Office as a Residence Housekeeper. This opportunity is a rewarding role which supports and further develops the special relationship between the UK and the US, supporting work at the forefront of international diplomacy to make a real difference globally.

The Defence Attaché’s Residence has an excellent team responsible for the wellbeing of the Defence Attaché and family and guests within the Residence. It involves a programme of events and visits that requires the utmost professionalism to aid in this essential part of Diplomatic life. The Housekeeper is an important position within this highly effective team and reports directly to the Residence Manager.

The ideal candidate will be a team player and a clear and effective communicator, who pays strong attention to detail. A background in housekeeping within a commercial organisation such as a hotel or a large private household is highly desirable.

Roles and responsibilities:

Housekeeping to an exemplary standard by:

• Ironing all house linens, bedsheets, and Defence Attaché and spouse clothing as well as official guest laundry when required.
• Cleaning all guest bedrooms, guest bathrooms, reception areas, living areas and kitchen.
• Tidying any occupied bedrooms or any room that has been in use.
• Washing dishes following official functions.
• Cleaning the staircase, closets, and storage spaces.
• Ensuring that guest bedrooms are ready and well-stocked with linens, bath towels and other necessities.
• Cleaning accessible windows.
• Shampooing carpeted areas following official receptions.
• Clean front and rear of residence area including front entry steps.
• Other housekeeping duties as required.

• Must be dependable with a strong work ethic.
• The ability to follow direction exactly and be willing to take on any task.
• Must have the legal status to live and work in the US in your own right, from time of application.
• Must be proficient in written and spoken English.

Please note: Under US State Department requirements, the UK Government in the US may only employ, as non-diplomatic staff, persons who are US citizens, US Permanent Residents, or A and NATO visa holders.

You may refer to our website for additional information: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/living-in-the-usa. All selected candidates are subject to background checks and will require a security clearance prior to starting work.

• Previous experience working in hospitality or large private household would be advantageous.

Learning and development opportunities:

The British Embassy and its US Network is committed to all employee’s ongoing learning and development needs. We offer a comprehensive platform for personalised learning for everything from soft skill development (communicating with impact, handling difficult conversations, time management) to more technical or professional skills necessary to complete your job (software training, formal qualifications etc.).

The UK Government operating in the US offers a substantial benefits package including generous leave, a choice of medical insurance, 401(k) matching up to 7%, extensive learning opportunities and a great work/life balance.

Working patterns:

This role is 30 hours a week and is in-person. It requires set working hours each day 0800 – 1400 with some flexibility.

Appointable candidates who were unsuccessful may be placed on a ‘reserve list’. If during the reserve period of 6-12 months the same or a largely similar role becomes available, that role may be offered to the second or subsequent candidate.

Employees who are not liable to pay local income tax on their Mission salary, e.g. some non-local national staff and some spouses or partners of UK diplomatic staff, will have their salaries abated by an equivalent amount.

Internal candidates must inform their supervisor before they apply to a different position.

Only successful candidates will be contacted. Please no phone calls. Due to the high volume of resumes we receive; we cannot guarantee consideration of your application if the submission instructions are not properly followed.

The British Embassy is committed to a policy of equal opportunities and to creating a diverse working environment, free from discrimination, where everyone is included and treated fairly, based on merit alone. We are an equal opportunity employer, making all employment decisions without regard to race, gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, citizenship, disability, age, sexual orientation, political affiliation or any other criterion protected by law.