Job Overview: Professional Sitter/Nanny (SmartSitting Network)

SmartSitting is a premium, boutique childcare agency in New York City that operates differently than standard job boards. Rather than browsing endless listings, you join a “personal network” where the agency acts as your advocate, matching you with families based on your specific personality, skills, and schedule.

This role is ideal for students, artists, teachers, or career nannies who are looking for high-paying, respectful placements without the burden of administrative tasks. SmartSitting is known for working with “extraordinary” families and offering perks that go beyond a typical paycheck, such as community meet-ups and help with city living (roommate searches, etc.).

How it Works & Responsibilities

The Network Model

Personalized Matching: You don’t “apply” to individual families; the agency sends you opportunities that fit your exact profile.
Direct Payment: You are paid top market rates directly by the families. SmartSitting does not take a cut of your hourly wage.
Advocacy: The agency handles the referral process, advocating for your skills (tutoring, creative arts, infant care) to ensure a perfect fit.

Typical Duties

Engaged Childcare: Focus on creative play, homework help, or specialized infant care.
No Unwanted Tasks: You set your boundaries. If you don’t want to do housekeeping or work specific days, the agency filters those jobs out for you.
Communication: Keep families and the agency updated on your availability and child developmental milestones.

Qualifications & Requirements

Background: Must be “extremely bright, creative, and talented.” Experience in childcare, tutoring, or teaching is highly valued.
Engagement: A passion for working with “clever and funny” kids.
Vetting: Be prepared for a personal interview process and reference checks.
Speed: The agency moves quickly; they are looking for candidates ready to interview and start almost immediately.

Salary & Perks

Hourly Rate: Families pay “top rates.” In the current NYC market, SmartSitter rates typically range from $30.00 – $45.00+ per hour depending on the number of children and your expertise.
Paid Perks: SmartSitting offers unique incentives and paid perks for being an active member of their network.
Community Support: Access to a network that helps with subletting, roommate searches, and social meet-ups with other sitters.

Why Join SmartSitting?

SmartSitting is arguably the most “nanny-friendly” agency in Manhattan. They prioritize respectful families, meaning you are treated as a professional educator or creative partner rather than just “hired help.” The flexibility is unparalleled—you define your “ideal job” (e.g., only babies, no Thursdays, 20 hours a week), and they find the families that match that exact criteria.

Application Information

Interested individuals should apply directly through the SmartSitting website. Because they are holding daily interviews, it is best to submit your application as soon as possible. Focus your application on your “extra-curricular” talents—whether you’re a painter, a math whiz, or a musician—as this agency loves “multi-hyphenate” caregivers.

Full Job Description

SmartSitting is a holistic, person-centered nanny agency that focuses on matching creative and educated caregivers with families throughout New York City. Unlike open marketplaces, SmartSitting is a boutique agency that hand-picks its “SmartSitters,” often recruiting individuals with backgrounds in the arts, education, or specialized childcare. They emphasize “active” care, meaning caregivers are expected to be fully engaged with the children’s developmental and emotional growth rather than just providing supervision.

Typical Responsibilities:

Engaged Childcare: Providing high-energy, creative care for children ranging from infants to teenagers.
Creative Enrichment: Incorporating personal talents—such as music, art, drama, or athletics—into daily activities to inspire and educate children.
Academic Support: Assisting with homework, managing remote learning if necessary, and facilitating educational projects.
Routine Logistics: Handling school pick-ups and drop-offs, coordinating playdates, and transporting children to extracurricular activities across the city.
Meal & Home Prep: Preparing nutritious meals for children and performing light household tasks specifically related to the kids (e.g., tidying playrooms, washing bottles).
Communication: Maintaining proactive and transparent communication with parents regarding daily updates and developmental milestones.

Qualifications:

Experience: Minimum of 2+ years of professional childcare experience (nannying, teaching, camp counseling, or youth mentorship).
Education: A college degree or current enrollment in a university program is strongly preferred.
References: At least three stellar professional references that can verify your experience and character.
Commitment: Most positions require a minimum commitment of 6 months to 1 year to ensure stability for the children.
Certifications: Current CPR and First Aid certifications are required (or must be obtained before placement).
Screening: Must pass a rigorous multi-step interview process and a comprehensive background check.

Agency Benefits:

Vetted Families: Every family is screened by the agency to ensure a safe, respectful, and professional working environment.
Negotiated Terms: The agency assists with contract negotiations, ensuring fair pay, guaranteed hours, and clear expectations.
Ongoing Support: Caregivers have access to a dedicated agency coordinator for advice, conflict resolution, and career guidance.
Community: Access to a network of other SmartSitters and professional development resources.

To apply for this job please visit smartsitting.com.