Governess / Head Nanny (Rotational)
Position: GOVERNESS / HEAD ROTA NANNY (RIE™ Focused)
Location:San Francisco, CA (Local or Relocating)
A private San Francisco family is seeking a sophisticated, emotionally groundedHead Nannyto lead an established childcare team and provide exceptional, philosophy-driven care for two school-aged children.
Schedule (5-2-2-5 Rotation)
Shifts:12-hour days (7:00 AM – 7:00 PM / 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM).
Rotation:Week 1: 5 days on, 2 off | Week 2: 2 days on, 5 off.
Overnights:Occasional support required (no 24-hour shifts).
Weekends:Primarily sole charge.
The family is deeply committed to theRIE (Resources for Infant Educarers) philosophyand respectful parenting practices. This is a senior-level leadership role for a professional who views "educaring" as a lifelong practice—applying the principles of respect, trust, and authentic observation to the lives of school-aged children.
The Children & Philosophy
The family includes two bright, neurodiverse children (ages 4 and 8). The household environment is built on the belief that children are competent, unique individuals.
The ideal candidate will embody RIE principles by:
Practicing Authentic Observation:Stepping back to understand the children’s needs and developmental stages before intervening.
Respectful Communication:Speaking directly and honestly, involving the children in their own care and daily transitions.
Supporting Self-Regulation:Allowing space for children to experience and process their emotions without rushing to "fix" or distract.
Encouraging Autonomy:Supporting child-led play and problem-solving, particularly within their neurodivergent profiles.
Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Mentorship
Philosophy Lead:Act as the "anchor" for RIE/Respectful Parenting practices within the household, ensuring consistency across the nanny team.
Team Oversight:Supervise and mentor two additional nannies; facilitate clear communication and professional growth.
Administrative Systems:Maintain organizational checklists, therapy coordination, and team schedules to ensure a predictable environment.
Direct Care & Educaring
Intentional Interaction:Provide sole charge care rooted in presence and respect.
Transition Support:Facilitate smooth transitions (school, activities, travel) through honest preparation and unhurried pacing.
Activity Design:Plan developmentally appropriate, open-ended activities that foster creativity and self-directed discovery.
Household & Logistics
Child-Related Management:Oversee toy/book rotations (curating high-quality, intentional materials), wardrobe organization, and travel preparation.
Logistics:Manage carpool coordination and social calendars.
Meal Support:Weekend child-related meal prep (focusing on healthy, mindful eating habits); weekday meals provided by a chef.
The Ideal Candidate
RIE Practitioner:Deeply familiar with the teachings of Magda Gerber. You understand that "respect" is not just a word, but a daily practice of seeing the child as an equal participant in their life.
Emotionally Intelligent:You possess a high level of self-awareness and remain "the calm in the storm" during challenging moments.
Neurodiversity-Informed:You have experience supporting neurodivergent children and can adapt respectful parenting tools to meet their specific sensory and cognitive needs.
Executive Mindset:You are highly organized, proactive, and capable of managing the complex moving parts of a high-net-worth household.
Requirements
Experience:Previous Head Nanny or Household Lead experience in a multi-staff home.
Education:Strong preference for candidates with RIE Foundations training or a background in Early Childhood Education/Development.
Leadership:Proven ability to manage and inspire other caregivers.
Skills:Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and strong administrative proficiency.
Attributes:Professional discretion, a long-term mindset, and a genuine passion for respectful caregiving.
Compensation & Benefits
Annual Salary:$170,000 – $200,000 (DOE).
Hourly Equivalent:$70 – $80/hour.
Benefits:Comprehensive health/dental/vision package, PTO, and professional development support.
Environment:A collaborative, respectful, and highly professional household culture.
To Apply:Please submit a resume and a brief cover letter outlining your experience with the RIE philosophy and how you apply respectful parenting principles to school-aged children.