Team Lead (63381)

TEC Services; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

TEC Services in Buffalo, NY is seeking a Working Team Lead to oversee janitorial operations across multiple locations. The role requires strong leadership skills and the ability to maintain high sanitation standards while training and guiding team members during night shifts.

Ideal candidates will possess a high school diploma, 1-2 years of lead experience in custodial services, and strong communication abilities. Bilingual skills in English and Spanish are a plus. Join us in providing exceptional cleaning services.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 1-2 years of previous lead experience in janitorial or custodial services.
• Ability to lead by example and work alongside team members.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead nightly sanitation crews and serve as on-site liaison.
• Train and coach team members on cleaning techniques.
• Conduct high-quality cleaning in compliance with standards.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organization

Detail-oriented

Problem-Solving

Education

High School degree or equivalent

Tools

Forklifts

Pallet jacks

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Working Team Lead is responsible for overseeing janitorial teams across various locations. This hands-on role ensures sanitation standards are met, safety protocols are followed, and team performance aligns with client expectations. The Working Lead also acts as the on-site contact when the Quality Manager or Site Operations Manager is not available.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

While the following list encompasses the primary duties and responsibilities of the role, the incumbent is also expected to perform other duties as assigned.

Team Leadership & Supervision

• Lead nightly sanitation crews.
• Serve as the on-site liaison between janitorial staff and next level managers.
• Communicate daily with supervisor at the end of shift and provide full operational update.
• Monitor team attendance and timekeeping; flag and elevate concerns to HR and immediate supervisor.
• Identify and elevate operational or client concerns to the assigned Site Operation Manager or Quality Manager.

Training & Employee Development

• Train and coach team members on proper cleaning techniques and equipment use.
• Reinforce compliance with company standards, procedures, and safety expectations.
• Support team performance through guidance, accountability, and daily direction.

Cleaning Operations & Quality Assurance

• Conduct and ensure high-quality cleaning in compliance with safety and sanitation standards.
• Walk through with the store manager each morning.
• Checkout with the Night Manager and complete all checklists – add photo of checklist completed with the store manager.
• Submit detailed daily reports on team performance, incidents, and site conditions.

Safety & Compliance

• Maintain a safe, organized work environment and enforce safety procedures.
• Ensure emergency exit doors and eyewash stations remain clear and accessible.
• Verify proper handling, storage, and securing of equipment and propane tanks.
• Ensure cleaning equipment is drained, cleaned, and charged as necessary.

Equipment & Facility Management

• Ensure all tools and equipment (i.e., brooms, mop buckets, wet floor signs, etc.) are removed from the floor and returned to proper storage areas.
• Ensure propane tanks are returned to the cage and secured.
• Maintain janitorial closets in a clean and organized condition.
• Confirm all operational equipment is properly maintained and ready for the next shift.

Reporting & Communication

• Submit detailed daily operational and incident reports.
• Provide end-of-shift updates to supervisors and management.
• Document completed checklists and operational walkthroughs with store leadership.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPI’S)

• Tools and equipment stored properly
• Equipment drained, cleaned, and ready for next shift
• Propane tank returned to the cage and locked-up
• Walkthrough with Night Manager
• Complete all checklists

QUALIFICATIONS

• HS degree or equivalent required.
• A minimum of 1–2 years of previous lead experience in janitorial or custodial services.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to lead by example and work alongside team members.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction.
• Must be able to work night shifts and travel to assigned store locations.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish a plus.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Continually required to stand, walk, bend, stoop and kneel.
• Frequently required to bend, stoop, and kneel.
• Must be able to lift and/or move 50+ pounds.
• Ability to effectively communicate orally with customers, vendors, management, and other co-workers is crucial.
• Regular use of the mobile smart phone and e-mail for communication is essential.
• Hearing and vision within normal ranges is essential for normal conversations, to receive ordinary information, and to prepare or inspect documents.
• Must be able to operate forklifts/pallet jacks as needed.
• The job may be performed in a warehouse environment or retail/grocery environment.
• Must be willing to work different shifts when the business need arises.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Detail-Oriented: Ability to notice and address inconsistencies or areas needing improvement in cleaning standards.
• Strong Communication Skills: Capable of effectively interacting with clients, staff, and subcontractors, ensuring clear instructions and feedback.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead and motivate cleaning teams to maintain high standards.
• Problem-Solving: Quick and effective in addressing issues that arise in the field and resolving them efficiently.
• Adaptability: Flexible changing schedules, demands, and the needs of clients or team members.
• Time Management: Skilled at prioritizing tasks, managing multiple locations, and meeting deadlines.
• Customer-Focused: Committed to ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction and addressing concerns proactively.
• Self-Motivated: Works independently, taking initiative without constant supervision.
• Dependable: Consistently reliable, with a strong sense of responsibility in overseeing operations and ensuring quality.