Janitorial Lead

CW Resources, Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Insurance - Medical & Dental

Vision - Voluntary Benefit

Telemedicine

Retirement Plan & Match Options

Short Term Disability

Life Insurance

Paid Holidays & Vacation

Sick Time

Job summary

CW Resources, a CW Group nonprofit, seeks a Lead Custodian who will actively lead a custodial team and perform hands-on cleaning to maintain a safe, welcoming facility while coaching adults with disabilities. You will teach proper cleaning techniques, monitor performance, ensure safety, and coordinate end-of-shift tasks.

CW offers a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities to grow. This role emphasizes inclusion under the AbilityOne program and base access requirements, and supports

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of hands-on janitorial experience in commercial, industrial, educational, or government facilities.
• Experience operating commercial cleaning equipment (floor scrubbers, buffers, carpet extractors, power washers).
• Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain government base access.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a custodial team, teaching cleaning techniques and safety procedures.
• Observe work, provide feedback, and adjust coaching to improve performance.
• Maintain hygiene by cleaning restrooms, floors, windows, and common areas.
• Identify maintenance needs and ensure safe, compliant building operations.
• Coordinate end-of-shift tasks and support team members in rounding out duties.

Skills

Team leadership

Cleaning best practices

Safety procedures

Communication

Coaching

Tools

Floor scrubbers

Buffers

Carpet extractors

Power washers

Job description

We invite applicants eligible for the AbilityOne Program to Apply. The AbilityOne Program is a federal initiative that offers employment opportunities and services to adults who have disabilities.

We're seeking a Lead Custodian who will actively contribute to the daily upkeep, cleanliness, and safety of our facility while also serving as a working lead for the custodial team. In this role, you'll not only perform custodial duties yourself but also guide, mentor, and support a team primarily made up of adults with disabilities — helping them build skills, stay motivated, and succeed in their work.

• Teach custodial staff proper cleaning techniques, safety procedures, and use of equipment.
• Provide encouragement, build confidence, and help team members develop workplace skills.
• Explain tasks, timelines, and performance standards in a way that’s easy to understand.
• Observe team members’ work, give constructive feedback, and adjust coaching as needed.
• Help custodial staff overcome challenges, whether related to tasks, communication, or workplace adjustments.
• Encourage team members to take ownership of their responsibilities while offering support when needed.
• Track performance, progress, and any accommodations required to ensure success.

Custodian Duties:

• Clean and disinfect restrooms including sinks, toilets, mirrors, and floors to maintain hygiene standards.
• Sweep, mop, vacuum, and maintain floors in offices, halls, classrooms, and shared spaces.
• Empty trash and recycling bins and transport waste to designated disposal areas.
• Wipe down windows, doors, walls, and glass surfaces to keep the facility looking fresh and welcoming.
• Restock restroom and breakroom supplies such as soap, toilet paper, and paper towels.
• Dust desks, shelves, and other surfaces to ensure a tidy environment.
• Maintain entrance areas, stairs, and elevators to keep them clean, safe, and accessible.
• Identify and report maintenance issues such as broken lights, leaks, or other hazards.
• Secure the building by locking and unlocking doors at the beginning and end of shifts.
• Operate cleaning equipment safely including vacuums, floor machines, and cleaning carts.
• Handle cleaning products responsibly and follow all safety procedures.

Day in the Life of a Lead Custodian:

• Greet the team and explain the day’s tasks in clear, simple steps.
• Hand out tools and equipment and make sure everyone knows what to do.
• Show how to do any new tasks and remind the team about safety.
• Work alongside the team during the shift and help with cleaning tasks.
• Teach team members new skills and help them work more independently.
• Check on progress, give quick tips, and fix problems as they come up.
• Keep an eye on busy areas to make sure they stay clean throughout the day.
• Make sure everyone is using equipment safely and following safety rules.
• Help the team finish end-of-day tasks like trash removal and final cleaning.
• Put away supplies and clean shared tools and equipment.
• Talk with the team about what went well and what they can practice next time.

What You'll Need to be Successful:

• Minimum of 2 years of hands-on janitorial experience in commercial, industrial, educational, or government facilities, with strong knowledge of cleaning practices and safety procedures.
• Experience operating commercial cleaning equipment, such as floor scrubbers, buffers, carpet extractors, and power washers.
• Comfortable giving instructions and demonstrating cleaning tasks when needed.
• Ability to stay organized, follow daily routines, and keep track of supplies or maintenance needs.
• Valid driver’s license
• Valid Real ID
• Must be able to obtain and maintain government base access.

Bonus If You Have These Skills:

• Knowledge of OSHA safety standards, chemical handling, and proper PPE use.
• Good problem‑solving skills,such as identifying supply shortages or equipment failures and escalating appropriately.
• Attention to detail, ensuring cleaning meets quality standards.
• Time management and task prioritization, especially when coordinating multiple cleaning assignments.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks without constant supervision.
• Good communication skills and a helpful, team-oriented attitude.

Why You'll Love This Job:

• Join a team with a purpose—we appreciate your hard work and help you build your future.
• Be part of a team that cares—we notice your hard work and help you grow.
• Stay healthy with help from our Wellness Coordinator and wellness programs.
• Move up—we offer chances to grow and take on new jobs as you gain experience.

Take a glimpse into why CW might be the right place for you: Why CW?

Explore Our Generous Benefits Package

• Employer Paid Benefits Offered:
  • Insurance - Medical & Dental
  • Vision - (Voluntary Benefit)
  • Telemedicine
  • Retirement Plan & Match Options
  • Short Term Disability
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Holidays & Vacation
  • Sick Time

Physical & Environmental Demands:

• Frequent standing, walking, and bending throughout the shift.
• Lifting and carrying objects up to 50 lbs (e.g., trash bags, equipment, supply boxes).
• Pushing and pulling heavy items like carts, vacuums, or floor machines.
• Repeating the same movements—mopping, scrubbing, wiping, etc.
• Climbing ladders or stairs to reach high places or change light bulbs.
• Kneeling or crouching to clean low or hard-to-reach spots.
• Using your hands to handle tools, keys, or small repair tasks.
• Working around cleaning chemicals (with proper safety gear and fresh air).
• Being in hot, cold, or stuffy areas, depending on the part of the building.
• Hearing loud sounds from vacuums or floor machines.
• Watching your step on wet or slippery floors—sturdy shoes are a must.
• Dealing with dust, smells, or biohazards in places like restrooms or medical rooms.
• Outdoor work in all weather conditions (e.g., snow removal, sweeping walkways).
• Working alone or in isolated areas, sometimes during off-hours.
• Reasonable accommodations can be provided.

CW’s Core Values: Mission Driven, Teamwork Makes Ss Stronger, & Everyone Brings Value!

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are made based on individual qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Company Overview: CW Resources, a part of CW Group, is a national non-profit organization that has been delivering mission-driven, high-quality services for more than 60 years. We are committed to fostering a supportive and respectful workplace where every employee is valued for their unique contributions. We're proud to offer a wide range of services, from vocational rehabilitation programs to delivering healthy food options through the Meals on Wheels program. Our dedication to empowering individuals and strengthening communities drives everything we do, and we continue to work toward a brighter, more welcoming future for all.

Pay Transparency Disclaimer: We are committed to pay transparency. Compensation for this role is determined in good faith and based on job‑related factors such as skills, experience, education, and internal equity, in accordance with applicable law. Employees and applicants may request additional compensation information as permitted by law.

Enthusiastic

Shows intense and eager enjoyment and interest

Leader

Inspires teammates to follow them

Team Player

Works well as a member of a group

Motivations

Required

Peer Recognition

Inspired to perform well by the praise of coworkers

Self-Starter

Inspired to perform without outside help

Ability to Make an Impact

Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organization

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.