Caretaker - Buildings/Grounds

South St. Paul; South Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in public housing is seeking a Caretaker for Building and Grounds to ensure cleanliness and maintenance of two high-rise buildings serving low-to-moderate income individuals. This role involves routine janitorial tasks, grounds maintenance, and tenant interaction to foster a safe and pleasant living environment.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or older with a valid driver’s license.
• Minimum of one year janitorial or custodial experience required.
• Ability to lift up to 100 lbs and work in all weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine janitorial and grounds maintenance tasks.
• Maintain cleanliness and safety of the buildings and grounds.
• Inspect property conditions and communicate effectively with tenants.

Skills

Janitorial procedures

Groundskeeping procedures

Communication skills

Customer relations

Safety practices

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Position Summary:
Under the direction of the Property Manager, the Caretaker – Building/Grounds position supports the maintenance of two public housing high-rise buildings designated for low-to-moderate income individuals aged 50 and older. Together, the buildings house 298 one-bedroom units. The primary purpose of the position is to perform routine janitorial and grounds maintenance duties in and around the buildings to ensure cleanliness, safety, and compliance with health and housing standards. This includes cleaning common areas, deep cleaning vacated units, and maintaining outdoor grounds. Each caretaker will be primarily responsible for one building but must assist at the other building when needed or requested by Management.Job Duties or Essential Functions:
The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to:
Janitorial and Common Area Maintenance

• Trash and debris removal
• Vacuuming, carpet shampooing, sweeping, mopping, stripping, waxing, and buffing floors
• Painting common areas and replacing lighting fixture bulbs
• Washing windows, walls, doors, and elevator interiors
• Cleaning trash chutes, trash rooms, and laundry areas

Grounds Maintenance

• Lawn mowing, trimming, and plant care
• Leaf raking, snow shoveling/removal, and salting walkways
• General outdoor maintenance to ensure safety and appearance

Unit Turnover and Deep Cleaning

• Remove debris, sweep/mop floors, vacuum/shampoo carpets
• Clean kitchens, bathrooms, windows, blinds, and all fixtures
• Patch and paint walls/ceilings as needed

Other Duties

• Perform regular safety and cleanliness inspections
• Assist management with property condition evaluations and annual inspections
• Coordinate and communicate with fellow staff and tenants in a professional manner
• Respond to after-hours calls when applicable
• Deliver tenant notices and respond to resident inquiries/concerns respectfully
• Work collaboratively and maintain positive tenant and staff relationships
• Complete other duties as assigned

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of routine janitorial and groundskeeping procedures
• Familiarity with tools, cleaning equipment, and related safety practices
• Ability to read and follow product labels and safety data sheets
• Competency using computers and related software systems
• Physical ability to lift/move up to 100 lbs (occasionally), and 25–50 lbs (frequently)
• Ability to climb, bend, crawl, kneel, stand, and work in all weather conditions
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Dependable attendance and willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings/weekends
• Commitment to professionalism and ongoing development of knowledge and skills

• Establishingand maintaining effective working relationships with co-workers and residents.
• Applying general human relation and customer relation skills.

Following data privacy and confidentiality policies and procedures of the City and HRA.

Physical Demands / Work Environment:
This role requires frequent physical activity and work in both indoor and outdoor environments. The position involves:

• Standing, walking, bending, climbing, lifting, and repetitive motions
• Exposure to varying weather conditions and environmental elements (e.g., dust, fumes, chemicals)
• Use of personal protective equipment when required
• Work around moving mechanical equipment and tools
• Attendance at occasional evening or weekend meetings as required

Minimum Qualifications:
HS Diploma or equivalent; 18 years of age or older; Minimum of one (1) of janitorial or custodial experience, or training that demonstrates relevant knowledge and skills for the position; Valid driver’s license; Must pass a background check and verification of employment eligibility in accordance with Minnesota Public Housing Authority requirements.