Job Overview
Employment Type
Hourly
Compensation
Hourly
Exact $20.65
Work Schedule
Flexible
Day Shifts
Weekend Shifts
Benefits
Medical insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Wellness Program
401(k) retirement plan
Paid Time Off
Paid holidays
Job Description
The National Geographic Society is a renowned nonprofit organization dedicated to exploration, education, and conservation. Operating from its historic headquarters in Washington, D.C., the Society has been a global leader in advancing knowledge about the natural world and human cultures for over a century. The headquarters is currently undergoing a transformative renovation project known as Base Camp, set to be completed in 2026. This major project will culminate in the opening of the National Geographic Museum of Exploration, a cutting-edge facility that will include a pavilion entrance, auditorium, exhibition spaces, immersive attractions, retail and food services, and educational centers. The museum aims to serve as a vibrant hub for visitors and members to engage with National Geographic's mission through dynamic experiences and storytelling.
The Campus and Experiences team at National Geographic plays a critical role in bringing the brand to life by creating exceptional live experiences, managing operations at the headquarters, and supporting the renovation project. They oversee construction, content development, revenue planning, schedule management, and the programming of unique events and traveling exhibitions that generate significant visitor engagement and income.
Within this exciting environment, the Society is seeking a dedicated Custodian to join the Campus & Experiences Division. This role is essential to maintaining the cleanliness, safety, and operational functionality of the Society's facilities. The Custodian position supports the Custodial Manager and Supervisor by performing a broad range of janitorial and operational duties across National Geographic's headquarters and associated tenant spaces. The role requires flexibility, proactive problem-solving, and a collaborative attitude as custodians support multiple projects, events, and routine maintenance tasks.
The Custodian's responsibilities include everyday cleaning and sanitizing tasks such as floor care, dusting, restroom maintenance, window cleaning, and trash management. Additionally, they perform seasonal maintenance such as snow and ice removal and support event logistics by preparing and breaking down furniture and equipment. This position is vital in ensuring a positive environment for visitors and staff, helping provide a polished and welcoming atmosphere at all times.
The role is classified as essential, requiring incumbents to be present during emergencies and to work flexible shifts, including weekends, holidays, and varied hours to accommodate event schedules and operational demands. The Society values teamwork and encourages custodian staff to assist across departments, embodying a culture of partnership and shared success.
National Geographic offers a competitive compensation package including an hourly wage of $20.65, shift differential pay, and a comprehensive benefits package with medical, dental, vision coverage, wellness programs, retirement plans, paid time off, and more. This creates a supportive workplace that values employee wellbeing and professional growth. The position is on-site at the Base Camp campus, contributing directly to one of the most exciting cultural projects in Washington, D.C.
This Custodian role is ideal for individuals passionate about facility maintenance who thrive in dynamic, mission-driven environments. It provides opportunities to engage with a legacy institution and contribute to an innovative new museum experience that will inspire countless visitors. Those who enjoy varied job duties and working collaboratively with diverse teams will find this position fulfilling and impactful. National Geographic encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply and hopes to foster growth both for its employees and the organization as a whole.
The Campus and Experiences team at National Geographic plays a critical role in bringing the brand to life by creating exceptional live experiences, managing operations at the headquarters, and supporting the renovation project. They oversee construction, content development, revenue planning, schedule management, and the programming of unique events and traveling exhibitions that generate significant visitor engagement and income.
Within this exciting environment, the Society is seeking a dedicated Custodian to join the Campus & Experiences Division. This role is essential to maintaining the cleanliness, safety, and operational functionality of the Society's facilities. The Custodian position supports the Custodial Manager and Supervisor by performing a broad range of janitorial and operational duties across National Geographic's headquarters and associated tenant spaces. The role requires flexibility, proactive problem-solving, and a collaborative attitude as custodians support multiple projects, events, and routine maintenance tasks.
The Custodian's responsibilities include everyday cleaning and sanitizing tasks such as floor care, dusting, restroom maintenance, window cleaning, and trash management. Additionally, they perform seasonal maintenance such as snow and ice removal and support event logistics by preparing and breaking down furniture and equipment. This position is vital in ensuring a positive environment for visitors and staff, helping provide a polished and welcoming atmosphere at all times.
The role is classified as essential, requiring incumbents to be present during emergencies and to work flexible shifts, including weekends, holidays, and varied hours to accommodate event schedules and operational demands. The Society values teamwork and encourages custodian staff to assist across departments, embodying a culture of partnership and shared success.
National Geographic offers a competitive compensation package including an hourly wage of $20.65, shift differential pay, and a comprehensive benefits package with medical, dental, vision coverage, wellness programs, retirement plans, paid time off, and more. This creates a supportive workplace that values employee wellbeing and professional growth. The position is on-site at the Base Camp campus, contributing directly to one of the most exciting cultural projects in Washington, D.C.
This Custodian role is ideal for individuals passionate about facility maintenance who thrive in dynamic, mission-driven environments. It provides opportunities to engage with a legacy institution and contribute to an innovative new museum experience that will inspire countless visitors. Those who enjoy varied job duties and working collaboratively with diverse teams will find this position fulfilling and impactful. National Geographic encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply and hopes to foster growth both for its employees and the organization as a whole.
Job Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred
- Minimum 3 years of professional experience in custodial, janitorial, or commercial cleaning services
- Proven experience in museum or cultural institution custodial work preferred
- Knowledge of cleaning methods, chemicals, and janitorial equipment
- Ability to operate commercial cleaning equipment safely
- Physical ability to lift, bend, stand for extended periods
- Ability to work flexible schedules including weekends, holidays, early mornings, and late evenings
- Able to work independently and as part of a team
- Reliable and detail-oriented
- Legally authorized to work in the United States
- Not eligible for visa sponsorship
Job Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred
- Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in custodial, janitorial, or commercial cleaning services is highly desirable
- Proven working experience in a museum, cultural institution, or other high-traffic public-facing organization is highly desirable
- Knowledge of standard cleaning methods, chemicals, materials, and janitorial equipment
- Ability to safely and effectively operate commercial cleaning equipment including vacuums, floor buffers, and carpet shampooers
- Ability to perform physical tasks including lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods in various weather conditions
- Able to take direction, work with minimal supervision, and function cooperatively as part of a team
- Strong attention to detail with a pride in delivering excellent service
- Must be reliable, thorough, observant, organized, flexible, and courteous
- Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays, early mornings, and late evenings
Job Duties
- Performs a wide range of cleaning tasks including sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, and washing floors and other surfaces inside buildings
- Operates light and heavy commercial-type floor care equipment such as buffers and shampoo machines
- Vacuums and spot cleans carpets and rugs in offices, exhibits, and public areas
- Cleans and dusts furniture, exhibit cases, pictures, chairs, door trim, light fixtures, and all other horizontal surfaces
- Washes windowsills and interior glass in doors and partitions to maintain a pristine appearance
- Thoroughly cleans and sanitizes all restrooms including tile walls, shelves, and stall partitions
- Restocks all restroom supplies daily including soap, paper towels, and toilet paper ensuring dispensers are full and functional
- Monitors restrooms and public spaces for maintenance issues such as clogged drains or burned-out lights and promptly reports them to the supervisor
- Maintains cleanliness of immediate exterior areas including entrances and walkways by sweeping debris and removing trash from exterior receptacles
- Performs seasonal duties such as snow and ice removal from sidewalks, steps, and entrances using hand tools and chemical de-icing agents to ensure safe passage
- Collects and removes building trash, recycling, and compost daily placing materials in designated containers for removal in accordance with sustainability protocols
- Replaces liners in all waste baskets and trash containers
- Provides logistical support for special events including setup and breakdown of furniture and equipment
- Maintains a professional and helpful presence in public-facing areas proactively assisting visitors who may need guidance or assistance
- Works collaboratively with colleagues across departments to ensure seamless operations and a positive visitor experience
Job Criteria
Experience
Mid Level (3-7 years)
Job Location
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