Good help that’s hard to find

The economy continues to stumble, and in some circles, even an $8-an-hour service job is hard to find. But in the alternate world where “Gosford Park” and “Upstairs, Downstairs” live on, there are rarefied positions to be filled, positions that involve the usual care of pools, tennis courts, fine antiques. Among those listed by the staffing service Hampton Domestics (www.hamptondomestics.com, “New York, Palm Beach, the Hamptons”):

Butler: Experienced butler needed for a formal New York City townhouse. Family lives abroad and visits once a month.... Must be able to work closely with 6 additional staff members. No cooking required. Live out. $60,000 / year + benefits.

Couple: Live on a private island during the summer, and a 5th Avenue duplex in New York City during the winter. Fine chef skills required, along with ability to perform usual duties; cleaning, laundry, shopping, etc. $9,000 / month + benefits.

Couple: Needed to maintain North Shore residence on Long Island. Must be familiar with fine antiques and dealing with outside contractors. Will maintain tennis court, swimming pool, and perform light yard work.... $8,000 / month.

Couple: Live in your own cottage on a beautiful Southampton estate. Man must be able to maintain grounds, care for pool and tennis courts, and serve dinner occasionally. Woman should be able to take care of house cleaning and some laundry. Some light cooking required when chef is out.... $7,500 / month + benefits.