Lead Worker - Custodian

CW Resources; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical & Dental Insurance

Vision (Voluntary Benefit)

Retirement Plan & Match Options

Paid Holidays & Vacation

Job summary

CW Resources is seeking a Lead Custodian in Alexandria, VA, to oversee custodial duties while leading a team primarily made up of individuals with disabilities. The role involves teaching and guiding staff, ensuring facility cleanliness, and maintaining safety standards. Candidates should have at least 2 years of janitorial experience and a valid driver's license. The position offers a collaborative work environment with employer-paid insurance and other benefits.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of hands-on janitorial experience in relevant facilities.
• Experience operating industrial cleaning equipment.
• Comfortable giving instructions and demonstrating tasks.
• Valid driver's license and Real ID required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the cleanliness of the facility and guide the custodial team.
• Teach proper cleaning techniques to custodial staff.
• Provide constructive feedback on team members' performance.
• Secure the building by managing access at shift changes.

Skills

Janitorial experience

Cleaning practices knowledge

Team leadership

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Commercial cleaning equipment

Job description

Overview

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.

Take a glimpse into why CW might be the right place for you: https://tinyurl.com/9yc7h8um

Location: Mark Center Alexandria, VA

Shift: Sunday 9:30 am through 6:00 pm and M-Th 11:00 am through 7:30 pm

Responsibilities

• Lead Custodian who actively contributes to the daily upkeep, cleanliness, and safety of our facility while serving as a working lead for the custodial team. This role includes performing custodial duties and guiding, mentoring, and supporting a team primarily made up of adults with disabilities.

• Job Coach & Duties:
  • 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 an accessible way.
  • Observe team members' work, give constructive feedback, and adjust coaching as needed.
  • Help custodial staff overcome challenges related to tasks, communication, or workplace adjustments.
  • Encourage team members to take ownership of their responsibilities while offering support.
  • 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.

Benefits

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

Equal Opportunity & Company Info

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 with over 60 years of service. We are committed to fostering a supportive and respectful workplace and offer services ranging from vocational rehabilitation programs to Meals on Wheels.

Pay Transparency Disclaimer: 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. Applicants may request additional compensation information as permitted by law.

Notices & Resources

Copy and paste the following posters into your web browser to view the posters pertaining to:

• Notification of Employee Rights Under Federal Labor Laws posters: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/olms/poster/labor-rights-federal-contractors
• CW's Self-Disclosure Form: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=zZj4MtUu00iOjM5NS60vhGhCUZaiq9RLhDLFapc8phdUQzRDRTlPUDNINzI3QTNUNEJONlZDSTZSMC4u&route=shorturl
• Please email: [e-mail] to submit a request for accommodation with the application process.