Hire a Nanny in 24h
Premium Nanny recruitment in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Vetted candidates delivered fast, no upfront fees.




Why Elite Employers Choose Us
For over 20 years, Lighthouse Careers has been the trusted partner for discerning clients seeking exceptional Nanny professionals. Our rigorous vetting process ensures only the highest caliber candidates.
Rigorous 7-Step Vetting
Background checks, reference verification, and skill assessments
24-Hour Candidate Delivery
Receive your first shortlist within two business days
Success-Fee Model
No upfront costs - you only pay when you hire
Replacement Guarantee
Free replacement if placement doesn't work out
How It Works
Our streamlined process gets you qualified candidates fast.
Share Your Requirements
Tell us about your household or yacht, the role you need filled, and your specific requirements.
Receive Matched Candidates
We search our network and present a shortlist of pre-vetted candidates tailored to your needs.
Interview & Hire
Meet your candidates, conduct interviews, and make your selection with our full support.
Trusted by Industry Leaders
Hear from captains, estate managers, and professionals who have found exceptional talent through Lighthouse Careers.
"I wanted to say a few words of thanks for your all your time and efforts over the past few years. You and your team has always been a massive help in trying to help find us the right candidate for the right job in this ever expanding and delicate industry."

"I've had the pleasure of knowing Milica, and using her recruitment services for many years. Her attention to what I'm looking for in a crew member, fast response and flexibility and understanding of feedback has always impressed me."

"Milica is always my first call when looking for new crew. She helped me get my first command 3 years ago and ever since has supplied me with great candidates for all positions onboard."

"Due to her industry knowledge, great candidates she has provided over the years and great sense of urgency, I decided to appoint Milica's agency to represent our fleet of yachts. It has certainly proved to be a great partnership."

"I have known Milica for over a decade. In that time I have come to value her judgement and advice on Crew Recruitment. She has placed a number of candidates on my commands and she has also helped me secure my dream job!"

"Throughout my 11 years in yachting, I have found Milica to be my go-to agent for jobs. Not only because she has a great reputation in the industry and great boats in her books but also for her care, kindness and professionalism."

About Nanny Positions
When you hire a Nanny in Chicago, Illinois, USA through Lighthouse Careers, you're investing in exceptional childcare that seamlessly integrates with your luxury lifestyle. Our carefully vetted nannies understand the unique demands of ultra-high-net-worth families, providing discreet, professional childcare services that maintain the highest standards of excellence while adapting to your family's sophisticated needs and busy schedules.
Essential Qualifications for Elite Private Nannies
The most exceptional nannies in private service possess a combination of formal education, specialized training, and refined personal qualities. When seeking to hire a Nanny for your Chicago estate, look for candidates with:
- Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field
- Formal nanny certification from recognized institutions like Norland College or similar programs
- CPR, First Aid, and water safety certifications
- 5+ years of experience in private household settings with high-profile families
- Fluency in multiple languages, particularly valuable in Chicago's multicultural environment
- Impeccable references from previous ultra-high-net-worth employers
Specialized Responsibilities in Luxury Households
A professional Nanny in Chicago, Illinois, USA working with affluent families manages responsibilities far beyond traditional childcare. These dedicated professionals excel at:
- Coordinating complex travel arrangements and maintaining children's routines across multiple residences
- Managing relationships with private tutors, music instructors, and specialized enrichment providers
- Overseeing children's wardrobes, including designer clothing care and seasonal transitions
- Facilitating cultural experiences unique to Chicago, from museum visits to private concerts
- Maintaining strict confidentiality regarding family activities and high-profile social connections
- Coordinating with household staff, including house managers, private chefs, and security personnel
The Chicago Advantage
Chicago's vibrant cultural landscape and excellent educational institutions provide exceptional nannies with unique opportunities to enrich children's development. From accessing world-class museums along the Magnificent Mile to coordinating activities at private clubs and exclusive venues, experienced nannies leverage Chicago's sophisticated environment to create meaningful learning experiences while maintaining the privacy and security your family requires.
Nanny Market in Chicago, Illinois, USA
Finding the Perfect Nanny in Chicago, Illinois, USA
Chicago's thriving luxury market presents unique opportunities and challenges when you need to hire Nanny Chicago, Illinois, USA for your household. The city's affluent neighborhoods, including Lincoln Park, Gold Coast, and Lake Forest, create significant demand for experienced childcare professionals. Ultra-high-net-worth families in these areas compete for top-tier talent, making it essential to work with a specialized agency that understands the local market dynamics.
Competitive Compensation for Chicago Nannies
When hiring a Nanny in Chicago, Illinois, USA, expect to offer competitive salaries that reflect the city's cost of living and premium market. Live-in nannies typically command $70,000-$120,000 annually, while live-out positions range from $25-$35 per hour. For families requiring additional qualifications such as advanced degrees, multiple language fluency, or specialized childcare certifications, compensation can exceed $130,000 annually.
Local Market Considerations
Chicago's harsh winters require nannies comfortable with indoor activities and seasonal transitions. Many families prefer candidates with:
- CPR and First Aid certification through local providers
- Experience navigating Chicago's public transportation system
- Understanding of the city's excellent educational landscape
- Flexibility for travel to second homes in nearby Wisconsin or Michigan
The competitive market means securing exceptional candidates often requires comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. Working with Lighthouse Careers ensures access to pre-vetted professionals who meet Chicago's demanding standards for luxury household staffing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about hiring a Nanny in Chicago, Illinois, USA
How much does it cost to hire a Nanny through Lighthouse Careers in Chicago?
Lighthouse Careers operates on a success-fee model, meaning there are no upfront costs when you work with us to hire a Nanny in Chicago, Illinois, USA. You only pay our placement fee once we successfully place a qualified candidate in your household. This fee-for-results approach ensures we're fully invested in finding the right match for your family. The total cost varies based on the specific requirements and salary level of your position, but our transparent pricing structure means no hidden fees or surprise charges throughout the process.
How quickly can I hire a Nanny in Chicago through your service?
Our streamlined process delivers results fast. You'll receive your first shortlist of pre-screened Nanny candidates within 24 hours of engaging our services. Most clients successfully hire a Nanny within 1-2 weeks from start to finish. This rapid timeline is possible because we maintain an extensive network of qualified candidates in the Chicago, Illinois, USA area and conduct thorough pre-screening before presenting candidates to you. The exact timeline depends on your specific requirements and availability for interviews.
What qualifications should I look for when I hire a Nanny in Chicago?
When looking to hire a Nanny in Chicago, Illinois, USA, prioritize candidates with formal childcare education, CPR/First Aid certification, and substantial hands-on experience with children in your family's age range. Look for nannies with early childhood development training, strong references from previous families, and specific skills that match your needs (such as newborn care, special needs experience, or academic support). Many excellent nannies in Chicago also have college degrees in education, child development, or related fields, plus experience working with high-net-worth families who value discretion and professionalism.
What is your vetting process for Nanny candidates in Chicago?
Our comprehensive vetting process ensures you hire a Nanny who meets the highest standards. Every candidate undergoes extensive background checks, including criminal history, driving records, and employment verification. We conduct thorough reference checks with previous employers, verify all certifications and education credentials, and perform in-depth interviews to assess skills, personality, and cultural fit. For Chicago-based positions, we also verify local references and ensure candidates are familiar with the area. Our rigorous screening process saves you time and provides confidence in your hiring decision.
Do you offer a replacement guarantee if the Nanny placement doesn't work out?
Yes, Lighthouse Careers stands behind every placement with our comprehensive replacement guarantee. If for any reason your newly hired Nanny doesn't work out during the guarantee period, we will find you a replacement at no additional fee. This guarantee reflects our confidence in our vetting process and our commitment to ensuring successful long-term placements. The specific terms and duration of our guarantee will be outlined in your service agreement, providing you with peace of mind when you hire a Nanny through our Chicago, Illinois, USA services.
What are the typical salary expectations for a Nanny in Chicago, Illinois?
Nanny salaries in Chicago, Illinois, USA vary significantly based on experience, qualifications, and job requirements. Entry-level nannies typically earn $20-25 per hour, while experienced nannies with specialized skills command $25-35+ per hour. Live-in arrangements often include room and board plus salary. Factors affecting compensation include number of children, additional duties (light housekeeping, meal preparation), educational requirements, and travel expectations. High-net-worth families in Chicago's premium neighborhoods often pay above-market rates for exceptional candidates with proven track records and discretion.
What's included in Lighthouse Careers' Nanny placement service?
Our comprehensive service includes everything needed to successfully hire a Nanny in Chicago, Illinois, USA. We provide candidate sourcing and pre-screening, comprehensive background checks and reference verification, skills assessment and interview coordination, salary negotiation guidance, and contract preparation assistance. You'll receive personalized consultation throughout the process, ongoing support during the placement transition, and access to our replacement guarantee. We also offer guidance on Chicago-specific employment law compliance and best practices for managing household staff in Illinois.
How do I get started with hiring a Nanny through Lighthouse Careers?
Getting started is simple and immediate. Contact Lighthouse Careers for a confidential consultation where we'll discuss your family's specific needs, schedule preferences, and ideal candidate profile. We'll create a detailed job description and begin sourcing qualified Nanny candidates in the Chicago, Illinois, USA area right away. Within 24 hours, you'll receive your first shortlist of pre-screened candidates. There are no upfront fees, so you can begin the process risk-free and focus on finding the perfect addition to your household staff.
Are Chicago-area Nannies familiar with the city's neighborhoods and schools?
Yes, our Chicago-based Nanny candidates are well-versed in the city's diverse neighborhoods, from Lincoln Park and Gold Coast to Winnetka and Highland Park. Many have experience with Chicago's top private schools, cultural institutions, and family-friendly activities throughout the metropolitan area. This local knowledge is invaluable for families who want a Nanny who can navigate the city confidently, arrange playdates in appropriate venues, and understand the unique dynamics of Chicago's affluent communities. When you hire a Nanny through us, you're getting someone who truly knows Chicago, Illinois, USA.
Do you offer both live-in and live-out Nanny arrangements in Chicago?
Absolutely. We place both live-in and live-out Nannies throughout Chicago, Illinois, USA, depending on your family's preferences and living situation. Live-in arrangements are popular among families with larger homes in suburbs like Winnetka or Lake Forest, while live-out positions work well in downtown Chicago condos or when families prefer more privacy. We'll help you determine which arrangement best suits your lifestyle, budget, and space constraints. Both options have qualified candidates available, and we'll match you with nannies who prefer your chosen arrangement.
Can the Nanny I hire in Chicago travel with our family?
Many of our Chicago-based Nanny candidates are available for travel, whether domestically or internationally. This is particularly valuable for high-net-worth families who split time between multiple residences or take extended vacations. When you hire a Nanny with travel flexibility, we ensure they have proper documentation (passports, etc.) and experience with travel logistics. Travel arrangements, including additional compensation, accommodation, and time off policies, are typically negotiated as part of the employment terms. We can specifically source candidates who are enthusiastic about travel opportunities with your family.
What should I expect during the trial period when I hire a Nanny in Chicago?
Most families implement a 30-90 day trial period when they hire a Nanny to ensure mutual compatibility. During this time, establish clear expectations, maintain open communication, and provide constructive feedback. Your Chicago-based Nanny will be learning your family's routines, parenting style, and household preferences. We recommend weekly check-ins during the first month to address any concerns promptly. Our team remains available throughout the trial period to facilitate communication and ensure a smooth transition. This period is crucial for building the trust and rapport essential for a successful long-term working relationship in your Chicago, Illinois, USA home.
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Our Placement Guarantee
We're so confident in our matching process that we offer a replacement guarantee. If your placed Nanny doesn't meet expectations within the guarantee period, we'll find a replacement at no additional cost.

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