"Lead Custodian"

Job Details

Job Summary

Under the general supervision of the Custodial Crew Manager, the Lead Custodian performs a full range of custodial duties to maintain the cleanliness, safety, and operational readiness of university facilities. The incumbent works independently or as part of a team to clean and maintain buildings, classrooms, restrooms, offices, and public areas across campus facilities.

In addition to performing custodial duties, the Lead Custodian provides leadership, training, and support to custodial staff, assists in assigning and inspecting work, and ensures adherence to established cleaning standards, safety procedures, and schedules. The incumbent coordinates custodial support for campus events, identifies and reports maintenance and repair needs, and maintains records related to timekeeping, supplies, and work orders.

This position is responsible for monitoring custodial equipment and materials, ensuring safe and efficient use, and supporting sustainability practices across operations. The Lead Custodian also assists in maintaining adequate inventory, ordering necessary supplies, and providing feedback for employee performance evaluations.

The Lead Custodian plays a critical role in ensuring a clean, healthy, and welcoming environment for the university community through effective leadership, teamwork, and adherence to Facilities Development and Operations (FD&O) standards and campus service commitments.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform the full range of custodial work as needed and assist custodial staff in their duties, providing support during absences
• Train and instruct staff in proper custodial practices, safety procedures, and equipment use
• Assign, review, and inspect custodial work; complete inspection forms and provide feedback
• Assist in maintaining employee time records and reporting absences; provide input on employee evaluations
• Coordinate custodial support for campus events and activities
• Identify and report equipment malfunctions, repair needs, and supply requirements
• Order and maintain inventory of custodial supplies and materials
• Operate custodial equipment and vehicles such as utility carts and forklifts
• Use computerized systems to document work orders, time logs, and inventory records
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, including lockout/tagout procedures and PPE use
• Maintain clean work areas, tools, and equipment, and ensure all custodial operations follow health and sanitation standards
• Participate in training, department meetings, and performance improvement initiatives
• Respond promptly to emergency custodial and maintenance situations to prevent injury or property damage

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Working knowledge of custodial methods, materials, chemicals, and equipment, as well as sanitation and safety practices
• Ability to provide lead work direction, train and evaluate staff, and ensure adherence to safe work practices
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with a diverse campus community
• Ability to use computers for tracking work orders, ordering materials, and maintaining records
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple priorities, changing deadlines, and emergency situations
• Ability to prepare reports and maintain accurate records
• Ability to foster cooperative, productive working relationships and promote a team-oriented environment
• Ability to take initiative, analyze situations, and recommend appropriate actions
• Commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency in custodial practices
• Must be able to operate motor vehicles, scissor lifts, and forklifts

Required Qualifications

• Equivalent to one to two years of related custodial experience and providing on-the-job training and leadership to others
• Requires the possession of a valid California Driver's License for the operation of any vehicle or equipment required for position and in any emergency situation
• Must participate in all OSHA required physicals and examinations

License

A valid driver's license is required for this position. Out of state candidates selected for the position must obtain a State of California driver's license within 10 days of hire in accordance with the California Department of Motor Vehicles regulations.

Once hired the employee must successfully complete the Defensive Driver Training Program provided by the State of California for California State University campuses.

Preferred Qualifications

• Two years of experience as a lead
• On the job training experience
• Experience working in a residential, corporate or university environment
• Three years experience operating custodial cleaning equipment
• Basic computer skills and knowledge

Compensation

Classification: Lead Custodian
Anticipated Hiring Range: $4,298/month - $4,840/month (Step 10 – Step 16) CSU Salary Range: $3,596/month - $5,035/month (Step 1 – Step 18)

San José State University offers employees a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30-35% of your base salary. For more information on programs available, please see the Employee Benefits Summary.

Application Procedure

Click Apply Now to complete the SJSU Online Employment Application and attach the following documents:

• Resume
• Letter of Interest

All applicants must apply within the specified application period: October 30, 2025, through November 13, 2025. This position is open until filled; however, applications received after screening has begun will be considered at the discretion of the university.

Work Schedule

Selected candidates will be placed in one of the following shifts based on operational needs.

Sunday - Thursday, 10:30 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.

Contact Information

University Personnel
jobs@sjsu.edu
408-924-2252