Junior Library Custodian - East Manhattan Network

The New York Public Library; New York (NY); On-site; USD 40,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

The New York Public Library is seeking a Junior Library Custodian to maintain clean, safe, and comfortable environments across multiple branches. You will perform building care, floor finishing, carpet cleaning, light bulb replacement, and basic maintenance while coordinating with the Cleaning Operations Coordinator.

The role requires a High School diploma or GED, a valid driver's license, and reliable physical stamina for lifting and climbing.

Qualifications

• Familiarity with material safety data sheets (MSDS) and safety protocols.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills for library operations.
• Ability to handle physical tasks and follow safety guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Cleans and maintains the Library building and grounds.
• Buffs, strips and waxes floors; shampoos carpets.
• Replaces light bulbs and handles snow removal.
• Prepares maintenance reports and inventories cleaning supplies.
• Travels between branches within assigned network.

Skills

MSDS familiarity

Safety procedures

Interpersonal skills

Manual labor

Reliability

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Description

Department: Facilities

Location: Various Locations

Compensation: $44,904 / year

Overview

The New York Public Library (NYPL) has been an essential provider of free books, information, ideas, and education for all New Yorkers for more than 100 years. NYPL’s neighborhood libraries in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island—many of which date to Andrew Carnegie’s visionary philanthropy at the turn of the 20th century—are being transformed into true centers of educational innovation and service, and vital community hubs that provide far more than just free books and materials. NYPL is seeking a Junior Library Custodian to maintain an environment that is clean, safe and comfortable for our Library users and employees.

Responsibilities

Under the general supervision of the Cleaning Operations Coordinator, the Junior Library Custodian:

• Cleans and maintains the Library building and grounds
• Buffs, strips and waxes floors
• Shampoos carpets
• Replaces light bulbs
• Handles snow removal
• Prepares maintenance reports and maintains inventory of bathroom and cleaning supplies
• Takes necessary action to safeguard the building during an emergency and escalates issues to appropriate personnel
• Communicates with Library Manager on a regular basis to determine branch needs
• Travels between branches within assigned network
• Will be assigned to two sites and may be assigned to work at other locations as needed

Required Education, Experience & Skills

Required Education & Certifications

• High School Diploma or GED and prior basic custodial/building superintendent work
• Valid driver’s license and clear driving record

Required Experience

• Prior basic custodial/building superintendent work
• Successfully demonstrated experience and knowledge of the standard practices, materials and equipment to be used in commercial building cleaning work.

Required Skills

• Knowledge of material safety data sheets, safety practices and procedures
• Good interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrated flexibility and reliability
• Ability to perform manual work consisting of cleaning, heavy lifting, snow removal and working from high ladders, scaffolds and electrical lifts
• Heavy lifting may be required
• Performs related duties as required
• Must pass physical exam

Managerial/Supervisory Responsibilities

• N/A

Core Values

All team members are expected and encouraged to embody the NYPL Core Values:

• Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues
• Be Resourceful in solving problems
• Be Curious in all aspects of your work
• Be Welcoming and Inclusive

Work Environment

• Public service library

Physical Duties

• Requires bending, stooping, reaching, pushing, pulling and lifting/moving 50 pounds and up
• May require travel to library buildings throughout NYC

Pre-Placement Physical Required?

• Yes

Union/Non-Union

• Union - Local 374

FLSA Status

• Non-Exempt

Schedule

• 40 hours per week

Salary Statement

At the Library, we believe that pay transparency and pay equity are important to ensuring we source the best candidates and keep the best employees. When making a determination as to the appropriate salary for a candidate, we consider a variety of factors such, including, but not limited to, the position requirements, the skills, prior experience, and educational background required or preferred for the job, the scope and impact of the role within the organization, internal peer equity, and the candidate's specific training, experience, education level, and skills. No single factor is conclusive; the Library reserves the right to consider any and all relevant factors and make a decision consistent with its policies.
Union Salaries are determined by collective bargaining agreement(s).