What are the responsibilities and job description for the HCRO Custodian position at SETI Institute?
SETI INSTITUTE
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Position Title: Hat Creek Radio Observatory / Custodian
Status: Part-Time, non-exempt
Reports To: Director of Operations, HCRO
Location: Hat Creek, California
Hours: Up to 19 hours a week
Position Summary
The SETI Institute is seeking a reliable and highly organized Custodian to provide day-to-day office cleaning, sanitation, and upkeep of the Hat Creek Radio Observatory. This role is responsible for maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming environment across observatory facilities, including offices, residential buildings, common areas, restrooms, light-duty grounds support, and staff/visitor areas. The ideal candidate possesses strong self-motivation, excellent multitasking skills, a solid work ethic, high attention to detail, and a commitment to safety procedures.
Salary range: $18–$23/hour.
Apply here:
Responsibilities:
- Perform daily and periodic cleaning of site facilities, including offices, restrooms, kitchens/break areas, hallways, meeting rooms, entryways, and shared workspaces.
- Sweep, mop, vacuum, dust, sanitize, and disinfect interior surfaces in accordance with site health and safety standards.
- Clean and maintain restrooms, refill dispensers and restock soap, paper products, and other hygiene supplies.
- Collect, sort, and dispose of trash and recyclables in designated areas and according to site procedures.
- Inspect buildings and common areas regularly to identify cleanliness, safety, or minor maintenance issues and report findings to site management.
- Assist with light facility upkeep tasks such as changing light bulbs, replacing air filters, and minor non-technical repairs as assigned.
- Maintain custodial closets, cleaning equipment, and inventory of janitorial supplies. Submit requests for replenishment as needed.
- Help prepare conference rooms and common areas for meetings, site visits, and staff/guest events.
- Follow all safety procedures, including PPE use, chemical handling protocols, and hazard communication requirements.
Qualifications:
- A High school diploma (or equivalent), and 1 -3 years of previous custodial, housekeeping experience, are highly preferred.
- Working knowledge of cleaning methods, sanitation standards, and proper use of custodial equipment and supplies.
- Ability to safely use basic tools and custodial equipment (e.g., vacuums, floor care equipment, hand tools).
- Must be proactive, reliable, and perform tasks with minimum supervision.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize, work independently, and manage maintenance tasks effectively and efficiently are required.
- Knowledge of workplace safety standards and willingness to follow all site safety and compliance are required. .
Physical Demands and Working Conditions:
- Ability to lift/move custodial materials and equipment and perform physical tasks associated with routine cleaning (standing, bending, reaching, climbing stairs, etc.).
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Work is performed indoors and outdoors, involving exposure to cleaning agents and occasionally, hazardous materials.
EEO/Veteran
Salary : $18 - $23