A family driver or chauffeur is a domestic professional who is responsible for transporting the members of a family. The automobile that he drives is typically owned by the family. He may be required to work nontraditional hours such as evenings, weekends and holidays.
Job Responsibilities
A family driver transports his employer and the employer's family to appointments and engagements including work and school. He drives them to evening and weekend outings. He may be required to make overnight or extended trips. He may be required to perform duties other than transporting people, including but not limited to the delivery and pickup of goods and the running of errands. He is responsible for the cleaning and maintenance of the family's vehicle.
Job Opportunities
Family drivers are employed by individuals as well as large families. They may also work for a livery car company, transporting multiple families throughout the day. A candidate seeking this type of employment can apply directly to the company or family for which he would like to work.
These roles may also be found listed in the classified section of local newspapers. They also may be advertised on online job search boards such as monster.com, jobs.com and careerbuilder.com. Professional organizations such as the Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association provide resources and networking opportunities for job-seekers. Candidates may also find jobs by using the services of employment agencies that specialize in the placement of domestic professionals.
Qualitative Requirements
To be a successful family driver, a candidate must possess strong interpersonal skills, as she will be in close contact with her employer on a daily basis. Exceptional communication skills are crucial. She should know how to operate both automatic and manual gear shifts. She should have a keen knowledge of the streets and landmarks surrounding her employer's home, work and school. She must abide by all local and state driving regulations.
Educational Requirements
To become a family driver, the successful candidate must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, he must possess a valid driver's license in the state in which he resides and have a clean and safe driving record. He may be required to pass both a criminal background check and drug screening.
Average Compensation
According to Salary.com, in 2009 the average chauffeur working in the United States earns an annual base salary of $30,193. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the employment of chauffeurs to increase by 13 percent within the decade of 2006 through 2016.
