Custodian (Part-time)

Washington, DC, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Part-time

Hourly

Compensation

Hourly

Exact $20.65

Work Schedule

Flexible

Weekend Shifts

Benefits

Medical insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Wellness Program

401(k) retirement plan

Flexible Paid Time Off

Paid holidays

Job Description

The National Geographic Society, headquartered in Washington, D.C., is a venerable institution known globally for its commitment to exploration, education, and storytelling. With a rich history spanning over a century, the Society has pioneered groundbreaking research and delivered captivating content across multiple platforms, including television, magazines, and digital media. The institution's headquarters is currently undergoing an ambitious renovation project known as Base Camp, set to be completed in 2026. This renovation will transform the campus with the addition of the National Geographic Museum of Exploration, a public-facing venue that features a state-of-the-art pavilion entrance, an auditorium, an iconic photo gallery, exhibition spaces, and immersive walk-through attractions. Other amenities include retail operations, food and beverage offerings, an education center, archives, tours, and dynamic event spaces. A unique highlight of the renovation will be a one-of-a-kind nighttime experience in the courtyard, designed to captivate visitors and enhance their engagement with National Geographic's mission and storytelling.

The Campus and Experiences team is integral to the success of the Base Camp renovation, charged with creating memorable brand experiences for live audiences and ensuring seamless operational service at National Geographic’s headquarters. This team oversees all aspects of the renovation, including construction, content and design, revenue and operations planning, and overall schedule and budget management. They also drive revenue and audience development through National Geographic Live and Traveling Exhibitions programs, making them pivotal in both the operational and experiential facets of the institution.

The Custodian role within the Campus & Experiences Division is a critical support position supporting the Custodial Manager and Supervisor to maintain a clean, safe, and operational facility environment for National Geographic Society and its tenants. This position involves comprehensive janitorial services combined with important facilities operational support, including routine and project-based cleaning, seasonal maintenance, setup and teardown for events, and daily porter services to ensure continuous and efficient facility function. The role demands flexibility, a proactive work ethic, and a collaborative spirit to work closely with colleagues across various departments and projects.

As part of this team, the Custodian is expected to uphold the highest standards of cleanliness and operational readiness. Tasks include sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, carpet cleaning, dusting, window washing, restroom sanitation, replenishment of supplies, monitoring for maintenance issues, exterior upkeep, seasonal work such as snow and ice removal, waste management compliant with sustainability protocols, and supporting event logistics. Given the public-facing nature of the facility, custodians also maintain a professional and helpful presence, ensuring a positive experience for visitors. This role is essential, requiring availability during emergencies, flexible scheduling, and shifts that may include weekends, holidays, early mornings, and late evenings.

This part-time position involves working three ten-hour shifts per week on the second shift (10:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.), with a requirement for weekend availability. Applicants should come prepared to detail exact availability during the screening process. The hourly compensation is $20.65, with a 10% shift differential for hours worked between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., reflecting the importance of this role in supporting around-the-clock operations.

Beyond its operational scope, the National Geographic Society offers a competitive total rewards program, including comprehensive benefits and wellness initiatives, reflecting its commitment to supporting its workforce. The Society fosters a collaborative, inclusive culture where teamwork and flexibility are valued, and the Custodian role is vital in sustaining this dynamic, visitor-focused environment.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred
Minimum of three years professional experience in custodial, janitorial, or commercial cleaning services
Proven experience in museums, cultural institutions, or other high-traffic public-facing organizations preferred
Knowledge of standard cleaning methods, chemicals, materials, and janitorial equipment
Ability to safely operate cleaning equipment including commercial vacuums, floor buffers, and carpet shampooers
Ability to perform physical labor including lifting, bending, and standing for long periods
Ability to take direction, work with minimal supervision, and function cooperatively as part of a team
Strong attention to detail with pride in delivering excellent service
Must be reliable, thorough, observant, organized, flexible, and courteous
Ability to work flexible schedules including weekends, holidays, early mornings, and late evenings
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
Availability to work three ten-hour shifts per week, including weekends and holidays
Willingness to work during emergencies as an essential employee
Preparedness to share exact availability in screening call

Job Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent preferred
Minimum of three years professional experience in custodial, janitorial, or commercial cleaning services highly desirable
Experience working in museums, cultural institutions, or high-traffic public-facing organizations preferred
Knowledge of standard cleaning methods, chemicals, materials, and janitorial equipment
Ability to safely operate commercial cleaning equipment such as vacuums, floor buffers, and shampooers
Ability to perform physical tasks including lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods
Ability to work with minimal supervision and as part of a team
Strong attention to detail and pride in delivering excellent service
Reliability, thoroughness, organizational skills, flexibility, and courteousness
Ability to work flexible schedules including weekends, holidays, early mornings, and late evenings for special events

Job Duties

Perform sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, and washing floors and surfaces inside buildings
Operate light and heavy commercial floor care equipment including buffers and shampoo machines
Vacuum and spot clean carpets and rugs in offices, exhibits, and public areas
Clean and dust furniture, exhibit cases, pictures, chairs, door trim, and light fixtures
Wash windowsills and interior glass in doors and partitions
Thoroughly clean and sanitize all restrooms including tile walls, shelves, and stall partitions
Restock restroom supplies daily including soap, paper towels, and toilet paper
Monitor restrooms and public spaces for maintenance issues and report to supervisor
Maintain cleanliness of exterior areas including entrances and walkways by sweeping debris and removing trash
Perform seasonal duties such as snow and ice removal from sidewalks, steps, and entrances
Collect and remove building trash, recycling, and compost daily according to sustainability protocols
Replace liners in all waste baskets and trash containers
Provide logistical support for special events including setup and breakdown of furniture and equipment
Maintain a professional and helpful presence in public-facing areas, assisting visitors
Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure seamless operations and positive visitor experience