A preschool public school custodian is responsible for maintaining a safe, sanitary, and healthy environment for young children, staff, and visitors. Unlike standard commercial cleaning, this role often emphasizes rigorous sanitization to reduce the spread of infections common in early childhood settings.
Core Responsibilities
- Daily disinfection of classroom surfaces, toys, and restrooms using germicidal solutions
- Sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming all floors, including play areas
- Shampooing carpets and rugs where children frequently play
- Washing windows, walls, and mirrors to maintain a bright and clear environment
Waste Management:
- Collecting and disposing of trash and recycling daily, ensuring waste is bagged and taken to dumpsters
- Promptly cleaning up spills from food or beverages
Maintenance & Security:
- Performing minor repairs such as replacing light bulbs or fixing furniture
- Conducting routine inspections and reporting major maintenance needs or safety hazards to supervisors
- Securing the building by locking doors and setting alarm systems after shifts
Logistics & Events:
- Setting up and breaking down furniture (tables, chairs) for school events or meetings
- Assisting with groundskeeping, including trash removal from playgrounds, mowing, and snow removal from walkways
Qualifications & Requirements
- Education: Requires a high school diploma or GED equivalent
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
- Heavy lifting often required, ranging from 20 to 75 pounds depending on the specific district's needs
- Stamina for pushing, pulling, and frequent bending or kneeling
Background Checks: Must pass FBI and state fingerprint/background checks, as the role involves working in close proximity to children
Skills: Proficiency with cleaning chemicals (following SDS protocols), operating floor buffers or commercial vacuums, and effective communication with school staff
Working Conditions
- Environment: Exposure to cleaning chemicals, loud noises (from machinery), and potential exposure to bodily fluids, requiring strict adherence to OSHA safety regulations
A Daily Work Plan will be provided by the principal upon hire that includes additional responsibilities to those listed here.