Custodian

Uncommon Schools; New Jersey; On-site; USD 22,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Health insurance

Dental and vision plans

Retirement plan

Job summary

Uncommon Schools in New Jersey is seeking a dedicated custodial staff member to maintain clean classrooms, hallways, and facilities. You will perform cleaning tasks, assist with event setup, and report safety hazards to supervisors.

The role requires physical stamina, ability to pass background checks, and good communication. Starting pay reflects experience and position within a supportive school environment.

Qualifications

• Must have basic cleaning knowledge and safety practices.
• Able to lift and perform physical tasks as required.
• Good communication and ability to work in a team.

Responsibilities

• Clean classrooms, hallways, restrooms, and common areas.
• Sweep, mop, vacuum, dust and sanitize surfaces.
• Empty trash and recycle; set up furniture for events.
• Perform minor maintenance like changing bulbs or ceiling tiles.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Independence

Follow instructions

Background checks

Education

High school diploma/GED

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Clean classrooms, hallways, offices, restrooms, cafeterias, and common areas.
• Sweep, mop, vacuum, dust, and sanitize surfaces.
• Empty trash and recycling containers.
• Set up and arrange furniture for school events and activities.
• Perform minor maintenance and repairs (e.g., changing light bulbs, replacing ceiling tiles).
• Monitor building security by locking and unlocking doors as required.
• Maintain cleaning equipment and supplies.
• Report safety hazards, maintenance issues, or vandalism to supervisors.
• Assist with snow removal, grounds maintenance, or seasonal tasks when needed.
• Follow health, safety, and sanitation procedures.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED (often preferred, though not always required).
• Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting, bending, climbing, and standing for extended periods.
• Knowledge of cleaning methods, equipment, and safety practices.
• Ability to work independently and follow instructions.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to pass required background checks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous custodial, janitorial, or maintenance experience.
• Experience working in a school or educational setting.
• Basic knowledge of building maintenance, plumbing, electrical, or HVAC systems.
• Familiarity with OSHA safety standards and proper handling of cleaning chemicals.

Typical Physical Requirements

• Lift up to 50 pounds.
• Push and pull cleaning equipment and carts.
• Frequent walking, bending, stooping, and climbing.

Our people are what make us Uncommon. We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families. Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent.

Compensation

Compensation for this role is between $15.92 to $16.36. Most candidates who meet job description requirements will receive an offer of $15.92.

Starting pay is determined using various factors including but not limited to relevant professional development, education certifications, and tenure with Uncommon Schools.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off inclusive of sick time, paid holidays, and 10 weeks of paid breaks (Spring, Winter, and Summer).
• Extensive, best-in-class training and development
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans + pre-tax flexible spending (FSA), dependent care (DCFSA), and health saving accounts (HSA)
• Financial Planning

• New Jersey Pension program
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)
• Mental health and counseling support + wellness benefits

• * A detailed list of all benefits is located HERE.

At Uncommon, we believe that a supportive and welcoming environment helps our students, staff, and community thrive. We are dedicated to building a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences, reflective of the communities we serve---with over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color. Our organization values respect and open dialogue on important topics that shape our school culture.

As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email [e-mail].