What are the responsibilities and job description for the Custodian (8 hour/day) position at Austin Tracy Elementary?
Job Title
Custodian (Full-Time)
Reports To
Head Custodian/Principal
School Information
- School Size: 350 students, 50 staff members
- Facility: Elementary school (Pre-K through 6th Grade)
Job Summary
The Custodian is responsible for maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming school facility to support optimal learning and development for elementary-aged students. This position ensures all classrooms, common areas, grounds, and equipment are kept in excellent condition while maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and sanitization appropriate for young children. The Custodian works independently and collaboratively to provide a healthy, well-maintained environment for students, staff, and visitors.
Key Responsibilities
Cleaning and Sanitization
- Perform daily cleaning of all 20 classrooms, hallways, offices, and common areas
- Deep clean and sanitize all student restrooms multiple times daily, paying special attention to high-touch surfaces and age-appropriate fixtures
- Clean and disinfect the cafeteria, including tables, chairs, and serving areas after each meal period
- Sanitize frequently touched surfaces (doorknobs, light switches, handrails) throughout the building daily
- Empty and sanitize trash receptacles and recycle bins
- Maintain cleanliness of drinking fountains and water bottle filling stations
- Clean gymnasium, multipurpose room, and activity areas used by multiple grade levels
- Perform periodic deep cleaning of carpeted and hard-surface areas
- Clean and disinfect playground equipment and outdoor play areas
- Maintain storage areas, supply closets, and the custodial workroom
Grounds and Outdoor Maintenance
- Maintain playground safety by removing debris, checking for hazards, and reporting damaged equipment
- Perform seasonal grounds maintenance (leaf removal, snow/ice removal, landscaping)
- Keep exterior areas clean and welcoming for students and families
- Monitor and maintain outdoor trash receptacles
- Ensure parking lots and walkways are safe and clear
Child Safety and Health Standards
- Follow all health and safety protocols established by the district and health departments
- Maintain knowledge of and adherence to bloodborne pathogens standards and universal precautions
- Use child-safe cleaning products and store all chemicals securely away from student access
- Report any safety hazards, spills, or maintenance concerns immediately
- Respond appropriately to bodily fluid spills following district protocols
- Maintain a secure building by monitoring entrances and exits
- Follow emergency procedures and participate in evacuation drills
Equipment and Supplies Management
- Operate floor cleaning equipment (buffers, floor strippers, vacuum cleaners) safely and effectively
- Maintain and troubleshoot custodial equipment
- Maintain inventory of cleaning supplies and equipment
- Order supplies as needed and stay within budget guidelines
- Perform routine maintenance on equipment and report malfunctions
Event Support and Flexibility
- Set up and break down areas for school assemblies, performances, and special events
- Prepare gymnasium and multipurpose spaces for activities and events
- Accommodate flexible scheduling to support school activities and programs
- Respond promptly to requests from teachers and administrators
- Assist with field day setup, holiday events, and parent activities
Communication and Professionalism
- Maintain effective communication with the Facilities Manager, administrative staff, and teachers
- Report maintenance needs, safety concerns, and equipment issues promptly
- Respond professionally to requests from staff and families
- Maintain accurate records of work completed and supplies used
- Participate in staff meetings and professional development as required
- Model professionalism and positive interactions with students and families
Required Qualifications
Education
- High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate
Experience
- Minimum two (2) years of custodial or building maintenance experience preferred
- Experience in a school or institutional setting preferred
- Experience working in elementary school environments a plus
Certifications & Training
- Valid driver's license (may be required)
- Bloodborne Pathogens certification or willingness to obtain within 90 days of hire
- Background check clearance and fingerprinting as required by state law
Knowledge and Skills
- Working knowledge of cleaning techniques, products, and equipment
- Ability to read and follow written and verbal instructions
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Attention to detail and commitment to quality work
- Problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot equipment
- Understanding of child safety and age-appropriate practices
- Basic mathematical skills for calculating chemical dilution ratios
- Ability to communicate professionally with diverse populations
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly
- Ability to push, pull, and maneuver heavy equipment and furniture
- Ability to stand, walk, and bend for extended periods throughout the day
- Ability to climb ladders and work at heights
- Ability to reach, grasp, and manipulate objects with hands and fingers
- Adequate vision and hearing to perform job duties safely
- Ability to work in various weather conditions
- Ability to perform repetitive motions without injury
- Ability to work in environments with chemical odors and cleaning agents
Working Conditions
- Schedule: Full-time position, typically 40 hours per week
- Hours: When school is in session 9 AM-5:30PM or similar schedule to ensure facility is ready before students arrive and cleaned after dismissal. Summer Hours 8 AM-4:30PM.
- Location: Indoor and outdoor school facility
- Exposure: Dust, chemicals, cleaning agents, noise from equipment, and various weather conditions
- Flexibility: May be required to work before/after regular hours or during school breaks for special events
- Availability: May be subject to on-call availability for emergency situations
- Potential Exposures: Bloodborne pathogens, infectious materials, and hazardous materials
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation and benefits are commensurate with experience and district policies, typically including:
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement benefits
- Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, personal days)
- Professional development opportunities
- Holiday pay
Equal Opportunity Statement
This school district is an equal opportunity employer. The district does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or any other protected characteristic in its employment practices.
If you have additional questions, please reach out to Lee Johnson (Principal) at 270-646-2236 or lee.johnson@barren.kyschools.us.