Housekeeper - Residential Life

Washington University in St. Louis is a distinguished private research university renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and innovative research. The university spans multiple campuses and facilities, creating a dynamic work environment that supports diverse roles contributing to the institution's smooth operation and exceptional community experience. The Facilities Management team at Washington University plays a critical role in maintaining the university's physical environment, ensuring all buildings and residential spaces remain clean, safe, and welcoming for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. This team is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of cleanliness and upkeep, essential for supporting the university's mission and fostering an optimal learning and working environment.

The Custodial Specialist position is a frontline contributor within the Facilities Management department, focusing on the cleanliness and maintenance of assigned buildings, offices, residential units, and other university spaces. This full-time, hourly role requires dedication to daily cleaning tasks that span a variety of campus locations, including entryways, dining areas, stairwells, restrooms, hallways, and laundry rooms. The Custodial Specialist ensures these areas meet the university's cleanliness standards through regular dusting, sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, surface wiping, glass cleaning, trash removal, and restocking supplies. This position demands a physically active individual, capable of lifting up to 50 pounds, frequently bending, kneeling, and standing for extended periods, which reflects the dynamic and hands-on nature of the role.

In addition to maintaining cleanliness, the Custodial Specialist is responsible for communicating daily with supervisors to report any issues related to building maintenance, occupant concerns, or supply needs, ensuring that problems are addressed promptly and efficiently. This role also involves adherence to Washington University’s safety and regulatory policies, including reporting suspicious activities to campus security. The position occasionally requires working in off-campus locations and may include weekend shifts during peak times such as the academic year transitions.

Washing University values initiative and independence in its staff; therefore, the ideal candidate for the Custodial Specialist role is self-motivated, able to take direction while efficiently working independently to meet both personal and departmental goals. The role does not require formal education, professional licenses, or prior experience, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants. The compensation range for this position is competitive within the local job market, offering between $15.25 and $20.77 per hour, commensurate with qualifications and performance.

Washington University supports employee well-being through comprehensive benefits including up to 22 days of vacation, recognized holidays, and sick leave, as well as competitive healthcare options with low copayments. Employees have access to the university’s retirement savings plan with significant university contributions, wellness programs, mental health resources, and family support benefits such as caregiver leave and tuition assistance for employees and their dependents. These benefits underscore the university’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace environment.

In summary, the Custodial Specialist role at Washington University in St. Louis is ideal for individuals seeking a meaningful position that contributes directly to the maintenance and enhancement of a premier educational institution’s facilities. It offers a structured yet varied work environment where safety, quality, and communication are prioritized. The university promotes equal employment opportunity and invites qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds to join the Facilities Management team, contributing to a vibrant campus ecosystem and community excellence.