Lead Custodian Job at The California State University in San Jose

Overview

Join to apply for the Lead Custodian role at The California State University.

The position will have one of two different work schedules: Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:30pm or Thursday-Monday 8:00am-4:30pm. Under the direct supervision of the Director for Facilities Operations, the Lead Custodian works independently to mentor, provide guidance, train and instruct a group of custodians in proper use of equipment, supply materials, chemicals, and accepted custodial techniques. The incumbent performs all duties in specifically assigned work area and is responsible for performing duties in other work areas as needed. Work areas are located within residential facilities and/or administrative offices and include the Classics residence halls, the Campus Village residential facilities and/or the trash/recycling rooms, Spartan Village on the Paseo and the International House. Incumbent is responsible for maintaining the appearance and cleanliness of the work areas assigned and assisting Custodians in the performance of their duties. The Lead Custodian is required to use safe, approved methods and frequencies approved by University Housing Services.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate Residential Facilities Trash and Recycling Needs
• Provide daily custodial service during summer season to ensure quick turnaround of facilities as needed
• Maintain appearance and cleanliness of residential facilities
• Operate motorized cleaning equipment
• Perform housekeeping duties
• Clean common area bathrooms
• Provide training in use of equipment, supplies and accepted custodial practices and techniques, and the safe use of equipment and materials
• Coordinate major aspects of the University Housing recycling/trash program
• Assign, review and inspect the work of assigned staff, including completing inspections forms
• Assist in maintaining employee time records and reporting absences and providing input to employee evaluations
• Plan, schedule and coordinate personnel and work assignments
• Use computer for communications, research of tools and supplies, documentation of job-specific details and creation of reports
• Mentor custodians for proper coordination of responsibilities and completion of work
• Serve on-call emergencies when needed

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to lead the work of others including on-the-job training and feedback on performance
• Knowledge of methods, materials, chemicals, and equipment used in custodial work
• Custodial safety and sanitation knowledge
• Ability to measure methods appropriate to custodial operations
• Ability to use various custodial equipment (vacuum, floor buffers, carpet extractor, upholstery cleaner, etc.)
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work in diverse building types with or without elevators
• Ability to lift and carry heavy equipment and supplies up to 45 pounds for extended periods; ability to work inside and outside
• Ability to work at a computer terminal and understand/apply policies and regulations
• Willingness to work alternative schedules including weekends and some holidays
• Professional and respectful communication with constituents

Required Qualifications

• Equivalent to one to two years of related custodial experience and leadership on-the-job
• Valid California Driver's License for operation of vehicle/equipment and in emergencies
• Must participate in all OSHA required physicals and examinations

License

A valid driver's license is required. Out-of-state candidates must obtain a California license within 10 days of hire. After hire, employee must complete Defensive Driver Training as required by CSU.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3 years of experience as a custodian or lead custodian
• Training experience
• Experience in a residential or university environment
• Experience with custodial cleaning equipment
• Basic computer skills

Compensation

Classification: Lead Custodian

Anticipated Hiring Range: $3,690/month - $4,276/month
Salary Range: $3,690/month - $6,062/month

San José State University offers a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30-35% of base salary. For more information, see the Employee Benefits Summary.

Application Procedure

Click Apply Now to complete the SJSU Online Employment Application and attach the following documents:

• Resume
• Letter of Interest

All applicants must apply within the specified application period: September 12, 2025 through September 28, 2025. This position is open until filled; applications received after screening has begun may be considered at the university’s discretion.

Contact Information

University Personnel
jobs@sjsu.edu
408-924-2252

CSU Vaccination Policy

The CSU requires vaccination against COVID-19 or an exemption to be eligible for employment. See policy for details. Questions: jobs@sjsu.edu.

Equal Employment Statement

San José State University is an equal opportunity employer committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, creed, disability, ethnicity, gender, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, race, religion or lack thereof, sex, sexual orientation, transgender, or protected veteran status, consistent with applicable laws. Title IX and related laws prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs and activities operated by the university.