Job Description
Custodian I performs routine custodial duties to maintain
safe, sanitary, and well-maintained facilities across assigned
campus areas. Responsibilities include cleaning tasks such as
dusting, sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, restroom sanitation, trash
removal, window and surface cleaning, and basic furniture
care.
This role may assist with minor floor care tasks such as buffing
and basic carpet maintenance, operate standard custodial equipment,
and respond to routine cleaning requests. The Custodian I documents
daily services, completes cleaning checklists, and supports the
Custodian II or supervisory staff as needed.
The ideal candidate for Custodian I is a reliable custodial
professional with experience in daily cleaning practices. They are
safety-conscious, adaptable, and attentive to detail. This
individual works well independently and as part of a team, follows
established procedures, and supports the department’s commitment to
maintaining clean and welcoming campus facilities. They demonstrate
a willingness to learn, follow APPA and OSHA standards, and provide
responsive customer service.
Special Instructions to Applicants: Applicants should
attach a resume and cover letter in PDF format to the Supporting
Documents section of the application.
Workplace Requirements
This is an on-campus, on-site position requiring all duties to be
performed in person. Classified as essential, the Custodian I may
be called to duty during inclement weather, campus closures, or
other emergencies. Night and weekend work may be required. Per
Rice policy 440 , work
arrangements may be subject to change.
Work Schedule
- Standard shifts (day/evening) with occasional weekend or event
support
- Rotating assignments across classrooms, offices, lounges,
restrooms, and public spaces
Hiring Range
This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position, and the starting
rate is $18.00 an hour. Non-Exempt (hourly) positions under
FLSA
are eligible for overtime.
Minimum Requirements
- No formal education required
- Zero to one year of custodial experience
Skills:
- Ability to operate standard custodial equipment (e.g., vacuums,
floor buffers, carpet extractors under supervision)
- Must be able to speak, read, and write basic English
- Good interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a
team
- Must be able to record work hours in the Rice IO system and
work task system as needed
Preferences
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Familiarity with OSHA custodial safety practices
- Knowledge of basic APPA custodial standards
Essential Functions
- Perform routine cleaning tasks, including dusting, sweeping,
mopping, vacuuming, restroom sanitation, trash removal, and window
and surface cleaning
- Assist with minor floor care and carpet maintenance under
supervision
- Operate standard custodial equipment safely and
effectively
- Support Custodian II or supervisor with special projects or
emergency cleaning tasks
- Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and Rice University
safety standards
- Assist with inventory management and supply replenishment as
directed
- Support university operations during events or periods of high
demand
- Manage building access
- Perform other duties as assigned
Additional Duties
- On-site support for campus emergencies as needed
- When short-staffed, may be required to clean multiple buildings
as part of daily assignments
- Identifies building repairs and reports them following
university protocol
Working Conditions
Physical Demands: This is a physically active role
requiring the ability to exert up to 50 lbs of force occasionally,
up to 30 lbs frequently, and up to 20 lbs constantly. Duties
involve walking or standing for long periods, bending, crouching,
kneeling, lifting, reaching, and performing tasks requiring good
vision and coordination.
Work Environment and Hazards: Work is primarily
indoors across offices, classrooms, laboratories, athletic
facilities, and covered walkways. Exposure to temperature extremes
may occur in non–climate-controlled areas. Tasks may involve wet
surfaces and possible exposure to cleaning chemicals.
Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits
Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice
University
Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment
Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our
candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment
without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual
orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic
information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also
provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with
disabilities. If an applicant requires a reasonable accommodation
for any part of the application or hiring process, please contact
Rice University’s Human Resources Office via email at facstaffada@rice.edu for support.
If you have any additional questions, please email us at
jobs@rice.edu . Thank you for your interest
in employment with Rice University.