Housekeeper, Wiess President's House - $24 to $26 per HOUR
Posted on October 24, 2025
Rice University is a prestigious private research university located in Houston, Texas, with a sprawling 300-acre tree-lined campus. Consistently ranked among the nation’s top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report, Rice is renowned for its strong academic programs, low undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio of 6-to-1, and its unique residential college system. This system fosters close-knit, diverse communities that provide students not only academic support but also emotional and cultural enrichment through various social events, intramural sports, student plays, lecture series, and student governance. The university is recognized for its best quality of life and exceptional value among private universities, making it an attractive place to learn and work. The values upheld by Rice University – Responsibility, Integrity, Community, and Excellence – are deeply ingrained in its culture and shape the interactions among faculty, staff, students, and visitors alike.
The Housekeeper position at Rice University is a part-time, benefits-eligible hourly role with an hourly wage ranging from $24.00 to $26.00. This role is integral to maintaining the high standards and pristine condition of the Rice University President's official residence, also known as the Wiess President’s House, which combines private living quarters with professional hosting spaces. The Housekeeper’s primary responsibility is to ensure the residence is impeccably clean, organized, and presented, reflecting the university’s values and standards. This includes caring for fine furnishings, delicate surfaces, and supporting event setup and cleanup for receptions, university guests, and important functions.
Ideal candidates for this role are detail-oriented, professional, and discreet individuals with experience in residential housekeeping or similar environments such as luxury hotels, executive homes, or estate management. They must exhibit a high level of commitment to service and hospitality, working efficiently with minimal supervision, and demonstrating excellent judgment and confidentiality. Flexibility is essential, as the position sometimes requires working evening, weekend, or holiday shifts to accommodate special events and visitors. Physical demands include standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 25–30 pounds. Adherence to health and safety protocols and maintaining a neat, professional appearance through the use of provided uniforms is mandatory.
The job demands the ability to balance routine housekeeping duties with the nuances of maintaining an official residence that hosts high-profile events. Duties range from cleaning and laundry services to household organization, inventory management, and assisting with event preparation. The role also involves close communication and cooperation with other house staff and external vendors as needed. Rice University promotes a welcoming and friendly environment, and the Housekeeper is expected to contribute positively to this atmosphere, ensuring a respectful and hospitable experience for the President’s family and their guests. This essential on-site position underscores Rice University’s dedication to excellence in both its academic and operational functions.
- High school diploma or equivalent
- minimum 4 years of related work experience
- ability to lift up to 25-30 pounds
- flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays
- ability to stand and walk for extended periods
- excellent communication skills
- reliable and self-motivated
- ability to maintain confidentiality
- commitment to professional appearance and conduct