Part Time Companion/Cook Needed Sat–Tue for Animal-Loving Client Near Round Hill, VA

Part Time Companion/Cook Needed in Round Hill, Virginia

Position: Part-Time Companion/Cook
Schedule: Saturday–Tuesday, 12:00 PM–8:30 PM; 32 hours per week
Compensation: $35 per hour
Start Date: ASAP – ideally settled in before early October
Relocation: No – candidates must live within commuting distance; car-dependent location

A warm family on a working horse farm south of Round Hill, VA is looking for a Companion/Cook to help care for an active 81-year-old woman with mild cognitive impairment and some minor mobility challenges. She has a background in special education and wildlife conservation, and she lights up when someone can connect with her over those passions. She's introverted but genuinely friendly, and most of all wants to feel engaged, useful, and respected. This role covers Saturday through Tuesday, working alongside another companion who covers the remaining weekdays. This role is strictly non medical and non hands on care, companion care only. 

The right person will be someone who can read the room each day. There are good days and harder days, and the ideal candidate will know when to gently encourage a walk or an outing, and when to give space. This is a home that values genuine connection over checklist care. 

The family also has three much-loved dogs (two friendly Labradors and a slightly shy corgi mix) and a cat, so a real love of animals is essential. There are horses on the property as well, though no direct handling is required.

Responsibilities

Prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner for the client
Prepare dinner for one other household member as well, and very occasionally a meal for up to six guests
Keep the kitchen clean and put dishes away after cooking
Grocery shop regularly, keeping the household stocked
Do laundry for two people when time permits
Handle occasional light errands
Provide companionship and gentle encouragement, including reminding the client to take her morning medication
Drive the client to appointments and outings she wishes to take, the family can provide a vehicle for these outings
Encourage and join her on short walks and light activities when she's up for it
Keep a general eye on her safety around the house (stairs, carrying items, etc.)
Light pet care, including occasional cat litter duty and letting the dogs out 

Ideal Candidate & Personality

The ideal candidate is warm, patient, and highly adaptable, someone who can walk in each day, sense where the client is emotionally, and shape the day around that. They are comfortable in the kitchen, confident preparing everyday meals, and doesn't need things to be complicated to do them well. They are genuinely a dog and cat person, and has the kind of quiet awareness that lets them step in when needed and step back when the client wants privacy.

This is a wonderful long-term opportunity for someone who finds real meaning in companionship work and wants a stable, weekend-based schedule with a family who deeply values the relationship.

Requirements

Prior experience in companion care, elder care, or a similar household role
Comfortable and confident cooking everyday meals
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
Genuine love of dogs and cats; comfortable around horses at a distance
Legally authorized to work in the United States
Excellent professional references
Reliable and committed to a consistent weekend schedule

Compensation & Benefits

$35 per hour
32 guaranteed hours per week

Paid Time off and Paid Holidays 
Private space available on-site for breaks and lunch