Substitute, Custodian

Polkschoolsfl; Lake Wales (FL); Hybrid; USD 17,000 - 19,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full benefits package

Professional growth and development

Flexible work options for some roles

Mentoring and support networks

Job summary

Polk County Schools in Lake Wales, FL is seeking a Substitute Custodian to support school cleanliness and operations. This role performs heavy cleaning tasks and maintains safe, sanitary facilities for students and staff.

You will use cleaning equipment, follow chemical safety guidelines, and assist with events. The position offers entry-level pay aligned with state and federal minimums and requires a readiness to work flexible hours.

Qualifications

• Completion of eighth grade or equivalent.
• Knowledge of custodial methods and equipment.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks.
• Ability to stand for long periods and move objects.
• Bilingual ability is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Empties trash containers and cleans receptacles.
• Cleans chalkboards, dusts surfaces and maintains floors.
• Replaces light bulbs and refills restroom dispensers.
• Maintains dining rooms and assists with event setups.
• Performs general upkeep of school facilities indoors and outdoors.

Skills

Custodial tasks

Follow instructions

Physical strength

Standing for long hours

Bilingual preferred

Education

Completion of eighth grade

Job description

Job Location (Short): Lake Wales, FL, USA, 33853

Status: Open

Posting End Date: 10/2/26

Salary Grade: Miscellaneous

Position Title

Substitute, Custodian

Custom Job Purpose

This position exists to perform heavy manual work in cleaning tasks in and around schools, buildings and grounds. Substitute positions pay minimum wages as set by the U.S. Department of Labor, and the State of Florida, whichever is higher.

Essential Functions of this Job

Empties trash containers, pencil sharpeners and other receptacles. Cleans chalk trays and chalkboards. Dusts ledges, furniture, lights, etc. Replaces spent light bulbs. Refills restroom dispensers. Strips, cleans, burnishes, and applies finish to hard surface floors. Vacuums and shampoos carpets. Cleans and disinfects drinking fountains. Assists in the maintenance of clean, safe and sanitary toilet, shower and dining room facilities. Washes walls, windows, and glass surfaces. Uses tools, equipment and materials such as mops, power floor scrubber and buffer, vacuums, mop bucket and wringer, push and corn broom, floor and window squeegee, dust cloths, dustpans, finishes, toilet bowl mops and brushes, ladders, dollies, insecticides, germicides, bowl acid, cleaning agents, seals, lawn care tools, such as lawnmowers and two-cycle equipment, and maintenance hand tools. Follows instructions for proper use and mixture of chemicals and supplies. Assists lunchroom and warehouse personnel in stacking of heavy crates, boxes, etc. Maintains cleanliness of dining rooms as assigned. Assists with the setups of facilities for meetings, classrooms, and events, etc. Performs maintenance work at school plant by using lawnmower, power edger, hand lawn and garden tools and other tools related to lawn and shrub maintenance.

Essential Functions of this Job (cont.)

Non-Essential Functions of this Job

Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Completion of eighth grade, providing proof, if attainable, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Some knowledge of the methods and equipment used in custodial tasks. Ability to understand and follow instructions. Ability to perform work requiring strength. Ability to work continuous hours while standing. Ability to learn routine custodial and janitorial duties. Bilingual/biliterate preferred.

Work Context

Requires standing, walking and moving about to coordinate work. Requires face-to-face discussions and contact with individuals and/or teams. Requires coordination of work tasks to establish priorities, set goals and meet deadlines.

Physical Environment

Requires standing for the majority of the day, and the ability to frequently lift, carry, move and/or position objects weighing between 20 and 50 pounds. Requires working both indoors and outdoors. Requires exposure to outdoor elements, including weather changes, foliage, insects. Requires the handling and use of cleaning solvents and solutions. Requires the proper use of personal protective devices and equipment as assigned.

Collective Bargaining Agreement

No matter your role, you’ll be part of a supportive team dedicated to student success and employee well-being.

Looking for perks? We've got you covered.

• Full benefits package: medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• No-cost employee health clinics
• Paid holidays and leave time
• Flexible work options for some roles
• Professional growth and development
• Access to mentoring and support networks

Why work with Polk County Schools?

From IT to operations, everyone plays a role in student success.

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