Governess / Head Nanny (Rotational)

Job DescriptionPosition: GOVERNESS / HEAD ROTA NANNY (RIE™ Focused)Location: San Francisco, CA (Local or Relocating)A private San Francisco family is seeking a sophisticated, emotionally grounded Head Nanny to 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 the RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers) philosophy and 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 & PhilosophyThe 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.ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Team MentorshipPhilosophy 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 & EducaringIntentional 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 & LogisticsChild-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 CandidateRIE 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.RequirementsExperience: 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 & BenefitsAnnual 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.