Live-In Family Cook on a Beautiful Estate in Dumfries, Scotland
Salary: Up to £40,000 gross per annum
Location: Near Dumfries, South West Scotland
Accommodation: Private apartment or cottage provided (families welcome)
Hours: 40 hours per week, typically Monday to Friday, with flexibility required during peak times (shoot season and summer)
About the Role
A kind and long-established household just outside Dumfries is looking for a full-time, live-in Family Cook. This is a lovely opportunity for someone who values the natural ebb and flow of a household that’s relaxed day-to-day, but comes to life with family and friends during the summer and shoot season.
The role is perfect for a confident home cook who enjoys preparing simple, hearty meals using fresh ingredients, and who understands the unique dynamic of working in a private household. From relaxed weekday meals for two to generous shoot lunches and informal dinners with extended family and friends, the cooking is varied but always warm and welcoming. The family values seasonal produce and uses much from their own productive vegetable garden. Experience with game and venison would be a bonus.
You'll also be joining a supportive team including a housekeeper, assistant, and gardener, and will be well looked after in lovely accommodation on the estate.
Role Responsibilities
During quieter times, you’ll be preparing wholesome, home-style meals for the couple. When the house is full (around six busy weekends during shoot season and throughout August), you’ll plan and prepare food for larger groups, sometimes with additional kitchen support brought in for special occasions.
You’ll take responsibility for food shopping and budgeting, keeping the kitchen well-organised and clean, and coordinating with the housekeeper to keep the household running smoothly. The couple often travel, and when they do, you may enjoy lighter duties or time off in lieu.
Ideal Candidate
- Enjoys cooking honest, nourishing food, think slow-cooked stews, traybakes, and roast lunches
- Comfortable with the ebb and flow of a quiet home that occasionally becomes a full house
- Friendly, reliable, and well-organised in the kitchen
- Confident catering for a range of ages and dietary needs
- Flexible around busier periods in summer and autumn, with quieter spells in return
- Experience with game and seasonal produce is a real plus
- Interested in putting down roots in a settled, welcoming household
Accommodation
The role includes lovely, private accommodation on the estate — either a self-contained apartment or a cottage, depending on your circumstances. Families are warmly welcome.
If you're a capable and thoughtful cook who would enjoy a long-term position in a beautiful rural setting, and you like the idea of becoming part of a well-established and friendly household, we'd love to hear from you.