What are the responsibilities and job description for the Church Sexton position at St. John's Episcopal Church, Cold Spring Harbor?
Job Title: Sexton
Location: Cold Spring Harbor, NYReports To: Rector and Parish AdministratorStatus: Hourly
Position Summary
The Sexton is responsible for the care, maintenance, and security of church buildings, parish facilities, and surrounding grounds. This role ensures that all spaces are clean, safe, functional, and prepared for worship services, meetings, programs, and special events. The Sexton works independently with minimal supervision and supports the mission and daily operations of the parish.
Key Responsibilities
Facilities & Cleaning
- Maintain cleanliness and upkeep of all church and parish buildings, including sanctuary, nave, narthex, sacristy, parish offices, halls, classrooms, foyers, and restrooms
- Vacuum, wax floors, clean hard surfaces, wash windows, clean and polish woodwork and cabinets on established schedules
- Empty wastebaskets and manage routine cleaning tasks throughout the facility
Set-Up & Support
- Set up and break down tables, chairs, and equipment for worship services, meetings, and parish events
- Assist with seasonal church décor and liturgical set-ups (e.g., Christmas, Holy Week, Easter)
- Post banners, flyers, and signage as needed
Maintenance & Grounds
- Perform routine building maintenance and minor repairs (painting, furniture repair, basic plumbing and electrical work)
- Maintain lawns, shrubbery, fences, playground areas, walkways, gates, and perimeter of the property
- Remove leaves in fall and snow/ice from walkways in winter to ensure safety
Systems & Safety
- Monitor and maintain heating, electrical, plumbing, and alarm systems
- Secure facilities nightly by locking doors and windows, shutting off lights, etc.
Coordination & Communication
- Report maintenance issues, emergencies, or unusual conditions promptly to parish leadership
- Coordinate with Parish Administrator regarding cleaning and kitchen supply needs
- Supervise additional custodial staff when authorized
- Coordinate work with outside contractors, including service contracts
Qualifications
- Working knowledge of building maintenance, cleaning procedures, and equipment
- Ability to perform minor plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and masonry repairs
- Familiarity with gas or oil-fired boilers preferred
- Maintains records for all preventative maintenance
- Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and follow written and verbal instructions
- Strong reliability, attention to detail, and ability to work well with clergy, staff, and parishioners
Physical Requirements
- Medium physical demand: ability to lift and carry 20–50 pounds
- Regular standing, walking, bending, and use of cleaning equipment
Schedule & Compensation
- Hours: 40 hours per week
- Typical schedule: Sunday–Thursday, 7:00 am – 3:30 pm with two paid 15 minute breaks; and 30 minute unpaid lunch, flexibility required for special events and seasons
- Full health benefits
- Pay: $ 27.00 per hour
Pay: $22.66 - $27.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Work Location: In person
Salary : $23 - $27