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Princeton University

Custodian

Closes:

Salary: $23 per hour

662

Overview

Facilities, Operations invites you to apply to its Building Services team as a custodian. The custodian spends a significant portion of the workday in Princeton University buildings, interacting with the community while being responsible for all phases of cleaning and maintaining our beautiful campus.

Starting hourly rate: $22.59

More Impact Than You Can Imagine

Facilities supports Princeton's educational mission by stewarding the University’s campus in a sustainable way to create an environment of exceptional quality where learning and research thrive. If you share our values for teamwork, innovation, integrity, inclusiveness, respect, and sustainability, we welcome you to join our team.

Multiple positions available with weekend schedules/shifts.

Responsibilities

As a custodian, you will:

  • Perform routine cleaning duties, such as dusting, mopping, vacuuming, restocking, and refilling in different spaces across campus, including restrooms
  • Perform cleaning functions specific to your assigned facilities, based on seasonal and project requirements
  • Assist with or execute snow removal activities and minor maintenance, such as replacing light bulbs, adjusting furniture, or other similar activities
  • Empty waste receptacles and transport contents to designated disposal containers
  • Ensure necessary doors are locked after cleaning restricted areas
  • Maintain equipment and supplies by completing routine upkeep
  • Promote continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices
  • Fulfill miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent work experience
  • Demonstration of good interpersonal and communication skills in reading, writing, and receiving oral instructions in English
  • Demonstration of customer service with emphasis on positive attitude
  • Capable of learning how to operate equipment and practicing current cleaning methods
  • Ability to work flexible hours, such as overtime, to meet the needs of University operations
  • Moderate physical fitness — as a custodian, you must possess the following:
    • physical agility, full range of motion, and ability to maintain balance
    • the ability to stand or walk 2–4 hours at one time for a total of 6–8 hours per day
    • the ability to lift or carry up to 10 pounds frequently (33–66% of the workday)
    • the ability to lift or carry up to 30 pounds in a range of motion from floor to overhead occasionally (up to 33% of the workday)
    • the ability to lift or carry up to 50 pounds occasionally (up to 33% of the workday)
    • the ability to push or pull using force up to 10 pounds constantly (over 66% of the workday)
    • the ability to push or pull using force up to 60 pounds occasionally (up to 33% of the workday)
    • the ability to use arms and hands for simple grasping, pushing, or pulling frequently (33–66% of the workday)
    • the ability to bend, squat, kneel, climb, and reach or lift overhead occasionally (up to 33% of the work day)
    • the ability to climb stairs or ladders, shovel snow, work at heights, and work outdoors in a variety of environmental conditions

Work Schedule

A standard shift is Monday–Friday, however, weekend shifts are also available with different days off during the week. Please indicate in the application process your preferred shift and we will do our best to accommodate your preference.

Open positions may include one of the following: 4:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m., 5:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m., 6:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m., 7:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m., 10:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m.–10:30 p.m., 4:00 p.m.–midnight, 11:00 p.m.–7:00 a.m. (The 11:00 p.m.–7:00 a.m. shift begins Sunday evening and ends Friday morning.)

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Job Details

  • Standard Weekly Hours: 40.00
  • Eligible for Overtime: Yes
  • Benefits Eligible: Yes
  • Probationary Period: Per union contract
  • Essential Services Personnel: Yes
  • Physical Capacity Exam Required: Yes
  • Valid Driver's License Required: No
  • Union Code: SEU-Service Employees Inter Union
  • Salary Range: $22.59 Minimum Hourly Rate

Job details

Title
Custodian
Employer
Princeton University
Location
Princeton, New Jersey, United States
Published
Sep 15, 2026
Closes:
Nov 14, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Facilities Management
Salary

Salary: $23 per hour

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What are the minimum qualifications for the Princeton University custodian job?

You need a high school diploma or equivalent work experience, strong English communication skills in reading, writing, and oral instructions, and a customer service mindset with a positive attitude. You must also be able to learn cleaning equipment and methods and work flexible hours including weekends and overtime. Explore more staff and administration jobs in higher education or Ivy League schools to understand campus expectations.

💪What physical requirements must a custodian meet at Princeton University?

The position requires moderate physical fitness, including standing or walking 6–8 hours per day, lifting or carrying up to 50 pounds occasionally, and pushing/pulling up to 60 pounds occasionally. You must have physical agility, full range of motion, balance, and the ability to bend, squat, kneel, climb stairs/ladders, shovel snow, and work outdoors in varied conditions. A Physical Capacity Exam is required. See similar university jobs for more role expectations.

🕒What shifts and schedules are available for this custodian position?

Princeton University offers multiple shifts including 4:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m., 6:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m., 10:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m.–midnight, and 11:00 p.m.–7:00 a.m. Weekend schedules are also available with different days off during the week. You can indicate your preferred shift in the application. The 11:00 p.m.–7:00 a.m. shift starts Sunday evening and ends Friday morning. Browse administration jobs for similar full-time roles.

💰What is the starting salary and benefits for Princeton University custodians?

The starting hourly rate is $22.59, with overtime eligibility and benefits eligibility for full-time 40-hour employees. This is a union position under SEU-Service Employees Inter Union, with a probationary period per union contract. Princeton University offers a comprehensive benefit program for eligible employees. For compensation context, see university salaries or explore Ivy League salary guides.

📝How do I apply for the custodian job at Princeton University?

Submit your application through the Princeton University job portal and indicate your preferred shift when prompted. The posting is open until November 14, 2026 unless filled. Tailor your documents with the free resume template and free cover letter template. For further help, visit contact us.

About the employer

Princeton University Jobs

Princeton University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Princeton University provides a diverse array of job and work opportunities, supporting its mission in education, research, and campus operations. These opportunities broadly fall into three main categories: academic and faculty positions, administrative and staff roles, and student employment. Princeton University Jobs - https://hub-princeton.icims.com/jobs/search Academic and Faculty Positions These roles focus on teaching, research, and scholarly activities, often requiring advanced degrees and expertise in specific fields. They include: Faculty roles : Tenure-track professors, assistant professors, associate professors, and full professors across departments like physics, computer science, arts, and more. Lecturers and instructors : Part-time or full-time teaching positions in various academic programs. Professional researchers and postdocs : Postdoctoral fellows and research associates involved in lab-based or theoretical research, such as in quantum science or plasma physics. Professional specialists and librarians : Specialists in areas like data analysis or curatorial roles at the Art Museum, and professional librarians managing collections and services. Recruitment for these positions is typically handled by individual academic departments, programs, the Art Museum, or the University Library. Interested candidates can explore opportunities through the Directory of Academic Units for contact information and apply via the AHIRE online system. https://fed.princeton.edu/cas/login Administrative and Staff Positions These non-academic roles support the university’s operations, infrastructure, and services. They are available on the main campus and at facilities like the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. Key subcategories include: Managerial and professional roles : Supervisors, coaches, accountants, financial services specialists, grants managers, and administrative managers. Technology and IT positions : Software developers, IT support staff, and engineers in information technology. Technical and support roles : Laboratory support, research staff, operating engineers, tradespeople (e.g., electricians, plumbers), building services, groundskeepers, and campus security officers. Specialized featured areas : Health and safety officers, engineering positions (e.g., in facilities or research), campus dining staff (e.g., cooks, servers), and staff research support in various labs. These positions often emphasize skills in operations, safety, or specialized fields and may be open to internal candidates as well. To search and apply, use Princeton’s career portals: the main iCIMS site for managerial and office roles, a service-oriented portal for trades and security, and a research-specific portal for lab support. Featured jobs in areas like dining or IT have dedicated search links on the HR site. Student Employment Opportunities Princeton encourages students to work part-time to gain experience, build skills, and earn money, with options available both on and off campus. These roles are designed to be flexible around academic schedules. On-campus jobs : Service-oriented positions in dining halls (e.g., food service), libraries (e.g., shelving books, assisting patrons), or administrative offices. Research and academically oriented roles include lab assistants, research aides in departments like biology or physics, or project-based work in arts centers. These can be short-term (e.g., one semester) or long-term (spanning multiple years), and some may be remote. Off-campus jobs : Facilitated through the university’s Job Location and Development program, these include tutoring local students, childcare, or professionally oriented roles like internships with nearby organizations. They range from short-term gigs to ongoing positions. Benefits include competitive pay, mentorship from faculty or staff, professional development (e.g., resume-building skills), and fostering community connections. All university-affiliated jobs must be registered and applied for through the JobX Employment Portal, while off-campus employers post via registration with the financial aid office. Overall, Princeton emphasizes equal opportunity and inclusivity in hiring, with many roles offering benefits like professional growth and contributions to a vibrant academic community. For the most current listings, visit the university’s HR careers page or specific departmental sites.

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