What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cleaner position at Sankofa Video, Books, and Cafe?
About Sankofa
Sankofa Café is part of a family-run cultural institution on Georgia Avenue that also includes a bookstore and community programming rooted in Black history and storytelling. We are looking for a dependable Cleaner to help us keep our café and shared spaces welcoming, sanitary, and well maintained for staff, guests, and the community we serve.
Responsibilities
- Clean and sanitize all café and common areas daily, including dining areas, counters, prep surfaces, transit areas, and restrooms
- Sweep, mop, and vacuum floors; spot clean walls, windows, and doors as needed
- Empty and dispose of trash and recycling, and reline bins throughout the space
- Restock restroom and cleaning supplies, and flag low inventory to management
- Clean and sanitize kitchen equipment, dishware, and surfaces in coordination with café staff
- Follow DC Health and food safety guidelines for cleaning products, chemical storage, and sanitation logs
- Report maintenance issues, safety hazards, or equipment damage to management promptly
- Perform deep cleaning tasks on a rotating schedule (e.g., floors, refrigeration units, vents)
- Assist with opening cleaning routines ahead of daily service
- Wipe down outdoor tables and seating areas, and inspect outdoor spaces for trip and slip hazards (debris, spills, ice, uneven surfaces), clearing them or placing warning signage where they cannot be immediately resolved
Qualifications
- Prior cleaning, custodial, or janitorial experience preferred, ideally in a food service or hospitality setting
- Working knowledge of proper cleaning chemicals, equipment, and safe handling practices
- Able to follow written and verbal cleaning checklists and health code standards
- Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently with minimal supervision
- Able to stand, bend, and lift supplies (up to 30 lbs) for the duration of a shift
- DC resident preferred, especially Ward 1
Schedule
Part-time, 6:00 AM to 7:30 AM, seven days a week, ahead of daily café opening. Additional hours may be scheduled around high-volume events.
Compensation
$18.40–$20.00 per hour, commensurate with experience.
Pay: $18.40 - $20.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
Salary : $18 - $20