Position Information
Posted
Jan 5, 2026
Closes
Feb 5, 2026
Description
Duties:
Provide reliable, attentive care for children and/or pets in short-term rental homes in the Massanutten area.
- Supervise children during playtime, meals, and bedtime routines as requested by guests.
- Ensure a safe, engaging, and positive experience for children of all ages.
- Walk, feed, and care for pets according to owner instructions (dogs primarily).
- Maintain a clean and organized environment during care visits.
- Follow all safety guidelines and house rules provided by the property owner or guest.
- Communicate clearly and professionally with guests and property management regarding arrival, care needs, and any concerns.
- Be punctual, dependable, and respectful of guest privacy.
- Respond calmly and appropriately to unexpected situations or minor emergencies.
Requirements:
- Must be a current JMU student or recent graduate.
- Reliable transportation to the Massanutten area.
- Prior experience with childcare and/or pet care preferred.
- Comfortable caring for children of various ages and/or dogs.
- Responsible, trustworthy, and safety-focused.
- Strong communication skills and a professional demeanor.
- Ability to follow detailed instructions from guests and property management.
- Dependable availability for occasional evenings and weekends.
- Ability to remain calm and handle unexpected situations appropriately.
- Must respect guest privacy and property at all times.
How to apply:
Additional Information:
This opportunity connects JMU students with short-term rental guests seeking independent childcare and/or pet care services in the Massanutten area. Care providers are not employees and set their own rates and availability. Assignments are offered on an as-needed basis and may occur at various properties. Participation is optional, and care providers may accept or decline requests based on availability.
Salary
Pay is set by the care provider and varies by assignment. Typical rates in the area range from $18–$30+ per hour. Depending on: number of children or pets, length of care, time of day (evenings/weekends), specific care needs. Rates and payment are agreed upon directly between the care provider and guest prior to services.
Hours per week
Hours vary based on guest requests and availability. This is an as-needed, flexible position, not a set weekly schedule. Care assignments may include occasional evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Employer Information
Contact
Reba Coleman
Phone
7578107252
Email
rcoleman@dcmloan.net
Website
https://www.blackdiamondretreat.net/
Address
, Massanutten , VA,
