Custodian

Adirondack Watershed Institute; Paul Smiths (NY); On-site; USD 21,878 - 31,159; Full time

Job summary

The Adirondack Watershed Institute in Paul Smiths, New York is seeking a dedicated Custodian to maintain a clean and welcoming campus environment. This full-time role involves routine custodial duties across various campus facilities, ensuring adherence to cleanliness standards.

The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma or GED, be able to follow instructions, and have a strong commitment to customer service. Join us in supporting our mission while being part of a collaborative team.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Previous custodial or housekeeping experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Clean and sanitize classrooms, offices, and public areas.
• Assist with floor care projects including stripping and waxing.
• Report maintenance concerns and safety hazards.

Skills

Ability to follow verbal and written instructions

Strong customer service orientation

Basic knowledge of cleaning methods

Ability to work independently and in a team

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Cleaning tools

Job description

Schedule

Days: 8‑hour shifts between 5:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Evenings: 3 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.

Position

Custodian

Status

Regular, Full‑time, Non‑Exempt

Department

Campus Operations

Reports To

Custodial Team Coordinator

Salary

Days – $19.25/hour. Evenings – $19.25/hour. Evening differential – $1.00/hour.

Description

The Custodian is responsible for maintaining a clean, safe, sanitary, and welcoming campus environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. This position performs routine custodial duties in academic buildings, residence halls, administrative offices, athletic facilities, dining areas, and common spaces. The role supports the college’s mission by maintaining campus infrastructure and appearance in accordance with Paul Smith’s College operational and customer service standards.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Clean and sanitize classrooms, offices, residence halls, restrooms, hallways, stairwells, lounges, and public areas.
• Sweep, mop, vacuum, dust, and polish floors and surfaces.
• Empty trash and recycling receptacles and transport waste to designated collection points.
• Clean windows, doors, walls, partitions, and furniture.
• Restock restroom and custodial supplies.
• Operate custodial equipment such as vacuums, auto scrubbers, buffers, carpet extractors, and floor machines.
• Assist with floor care projects including stripping, waxing, buffing, and carpet cleaning.
• Set up and break down tables, chairs, and equipment for campus events and meetings.
• Report maintenance concerns, safety hazards, and repair needs to supervisors.
• Follow all safety procedures regarding OSHA standards.
• Support emergency response activities including snow events, spills, or campus emergencies as assigned.
• Maintain positive customer service interactions with students, faculty, staff, and guests.
• Work collaboratively with team members to complete projects and goals.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Custodial Evening Lead or Custodial Team Coordinator or designee in their absence.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous custodial or housekeeping experience preferred but not required.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Basic knowledge of cleaning methods, chemicals, and equipment preferred.
• Strong customer service orientation.
• Ability to work with a broad range of diverse individuals and groups to form a safe and inclusive campus community.

Physical Requirements

Environmental Conditions

• Work is consistently performed in indoor academic and residential spaces with normal temperature ranges for the season.
• Fast‑paced environment during academic year and campus events.
• Traditional noise of a busy workspace setting can be expected.
• Working spaces may be crowded based on traffic and space configuration.
• Routine exposure to cleaning chemicals to perform duties.

Lifting and Carrying

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Routine lifting between 10‑25 lbs.
• Frequent lifting and carrying light to moderate weight products or tools (cleaning tools, cleaning products, garbage, furniture items, etc.).
• Utilize assistive devices and equipment as necessary.

Mobility

• Perform physically active work including bending, walking, climbing stairs, and standing for extended periods.
• Infrequent needs to reach overhead to perform work duties.
• Climbing various staircases across the campus to engage in meetings and/or presentations.
• Utilize mobility assistive devices and equipment as necessary.

Dexterity and Hand‑Eye Coordination

• Manual dexterity for handling cleaning tools.

Sensory Requirements

• Good vision is required, with corrective lenses as necessary.
• Good hearing is required with assistive devices as necessary.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Paul Smith’s College is an equal opportunity employer. Position descriptions are created that focus on essential functions, using inclusive language, and avoid unnecessary or discriminatory requirements.