Okay,
So I was offered a nanny position in NYC, had worked out pay and everything, looking at flights into it, and then the mom dropped it on me that the position was for 7 days a week. Is this absurd or am I blowing it out of proportion? I have never talked to anyone hiring a nanny that expects them to work 7 (LONG 8am-bedtime) days. Also, I did the math- ends up being an 84 hour workweek and the pay doesn't even meet minimum wage/overtime requirements. How do I put it nicely that I would like the job but they need to hire a weekend nanny? They got away with paying their last nanny (she was foreign) for 400/week. I feel like they are looking for a slave, not a household employee. Advice? Help! I need to email her ASAP about my decision! (I also thought about just sending a link to the labor laws website...inappropriate?)
That doesn't sound too promising, and it sounds more like you would be a substitute parent than a nanny. I have worked as a nanny before, and you do need some breaks, or it is too tiring!!
I would suggest maybe thinking about what you really want, and imagining yourself in this situation. You don't want to take on more than you can handle and then end up with more problems because of it.
See if you can talk some sense into the family, and if they are open to changing some things, then see if you can negotiate (maybe even every other weekend off, vacation time, other incentives). Personally, I don't think you should ever take a nanny job without a "trial run", or at least an in-person interview to see both how the children respond to you, and how you fit into the family. I know I couldn't hire someone to babysit my son without meeting that person first.
It might be nice to live in NYC, but if you never get to experience the city, then what's the point? Do what's best for you, and don't be afraid to ask for what you need. If they can't provide that, then look elsewhere.
I would be weary of a family that intends to spend ZERO time with their kids. My best friend in high school nannied for a NYC family - busy doctors, I think - and the kids were screwed up by the absence of their parents. I think she discovered the parents were using recreational drugs, etc. too. Are you prepared to be the primary caregiver and devote years to this family, even if they manage to make the price right?
I would decline, and specify why. If the hours and the pay are unacceptable and inappropriate they should know. I think you can find a better opportunity.