Head Custodian

REPORTS TO: Building Principal and Director of Facilities

SALARY RANGE & CATEGORY: Starting at $17.29/hour, depending on experience, on the Classified Hourly Salary Schedule

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

WORK CALENDAR: 260 Days

FTE: 1.0

Full-time with benefits; 5-day work week Monday-Friday

POSITION SUMMARY

The Head Custodian provides leadership and hands-on support for the daily custodial operations of Sterling Middle School. This individual is responsible for maintaining a high standard of cleanliness, sanitation, safety, and overall building appearance while helping coordinate the work of custodial personnel. The successful candidate will demonstrate initiative, sound judgment, strong organizational skills, and the ability to identify and address facility needs proactively. Working closely with the Building Principal, district facilities personnel, and other school staff, the Head Custodian helps ensure the building is properly maintained, custodial resources are used effectively, and daily operations run smoothly. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who sees what needs to be done, takes appropriate action, and leads others through a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and commitment to excellence.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Custodial Operations & Building Care

• Oversee and actively participate in the daily cleaning, sanitation, and upkeep of the school building.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness in classrooms, offices, hallways, restrooms, locker rooms, cafeterias, gymnasiums, and other instructional and common areas.
• Establish and follow daily, weekly, monthly, and seasonal cleaning routines to ensure consistent building care.
• Perform custodial tasks including sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, disinfecting, floor care, restroom sanitation, and waste removal.
• Monitor the overall condition and appearance of the facility, identifying areas requiring additional attention.
• Ensure classrooms and common areas are clean, orderly, and prepared for student and staff use.
• Coordinate deep cleaning, floor refinishing, carpet cleaning, and other major custodial projects during school breaks and summer months.
• Promote pride in the appearance and condition of Sterling Middle School.

2. Leadership, Teamwork & Staff Coordination

• Serve as the lead custodial employee within the building and model professionalism, accountability, and a strong work ethic.
• Assist with coordinating daily custodial assignments, work schedules, and building coverage as directed by administration.
• Provide direction, guidance, and hands-on support to custodial staff to ensure work is completed efficiently and to established standards.
• Assist with training custodial personnel in proper cleaning techniques, equipment operation, chemical handling, and workplace safety.
• Monitor completion and quality of assigned custodial duties and communicate concerns to the Building Principal.
• Foster a positive, respectful, and team-oriented work environment.
• Assist with identifying staffing needs, workload priorities, and opportunities to improve custodial operations.
• Communicate effectively with administration and district facilities personnel regarding building needs, custodial concerns, and operational priorities.
• Demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to assist wherever needed.

3. Facility Maintenance & Preventative Care

• Conduct routine inspections of the building to identify maintenance concerns, safety hazards, and areas requiring repair.
• Perform minor building repairs and basic preventative maintenance within the scope of training and assigned responsibilities.
• Monitor the condition of doors, locks, plumbing fixtures, lighting, flooring, furniture, and other building components.
• Identify and promptly report concerns involving heating, ventilation, air conditioning, electrical, plumbing, or other major building systems.
• Submit maintenance requests and coordinate with district facilities personnel to support timely completion of repairs.
• Assist with routine inspections and upkeep of custodial equipment, tools, and building systems.
• Take a proactive approach to protecting district property and extending the useful life of school facilities.
• Support summer maintenance, facility improvement projects, and preparations for the upcoming school year.

4. Building Safety, Security & Emergency Response

• Help maintain a safe and secure environment for students, staff, and visitors.
• Open, close, and secure school facilities according to assigned schedules and district procedures.
• Monitor doors, windows, and designated access points to help maintain building security.
• Identify and promptly address or report potential hazards, spills, unsafe conditions, and maintenance concerns.
• Follow district procedures for the safe storage, labeling, handling, and disposal of cleaning chemicals and materials.
• Ensure proper use of personal protective equipment and compliance with applicable safety requirements.
• Assist with emergency response procedures, including situations involving water leaks, weather events, building damage, or other urgent facility needs.
• Participate in required safety training, emergency preparedness activities, and district procedures.
• Maintain awareness of student and staff safety when performing custodial or maintenance activities.

5. Equipment, Supplies & Inventory Management

• Maintain an organized inventory of cleaning products, custodial supplies, tools, and equipment.
• Monitor supply usage and communicate purchasing and replenishment needs in a timely manner.
• Promote responsible and cost-effective use of district supplies and resources.
• Ensure cleaning equipment is operated safely, properly maintained, and stored securely.
• Maintain orderly custodial closets, storage areas, and workspaces.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and maintain effective custodial practices.

6. Grounds, Weather Response & Seasonal Operations

• Assist with maintaining clean, safe, and attractive building entrances, sidewalks, and surrounding school grounds.
• Support snow removal, ice mitigation, and other weather-related safety needs.
• Maintain entryways and high-traffic areas to reduce hazards and preserve building cleanliness.
• Assist with seasonal facility preparations, including summer cleaning, winter weather readiness, and school-year transitions.
• Coordinate with district maintenance and grounds personnel as needed.

7. School Activities, Events & Community Use

• Prepare school facilities for assemblies, athletic events, concerts, meetings, parent activities, and other school-sponsored functions.
• Coordinate custodial needs for building events, including room setup, equipment placement, cleanup, and facility readiness.
• Assist with moving and arranging tables, chairs, furniture, and equipment.
• Ensure facilities are appropriately cleaned and secured following school activities and community use.
• Communicate with school administration regarding event schedules and custodial coverage needs.
• Demonstrate flexibility in supporting occasional activities outside the regular school day when required.

8. Professionalism, Communication & School Support

• Establish positive working relationships with students, staff, administrators, parents, and community members.
• Communicate building concerns, safety issues, and operational needs promptly and professionally.
• Respond to custodial requests with a service-oriented attitude and appropriate sense of urgency.
• Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, initiative, and attention to detail.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student, employee, and district information.
• Follow district policies, procedures, and professional expectations.
• Participate in required training and professional development.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• Valid driver's license.
• Knowledge of or ability to learn commercial cleaning procedures, custodial equipment, and appropriate chemical use.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work and operate custodial tools and equipment safely.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and take initiative.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work cooperatively with school administrators, custodial personnel, maintenance staff, and other district employees.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule when necessary to support school operations and emergency needs.
• Ability to successfully complete required employment screenings.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in commercial custodial services, school facilities, building maintenance, or related work.
• Experience serving in a lead worker, supervisory, or team coordination role.
• Familiarity with preventative maintenance and basic building repair.
• Knowledge of commercial floor care equipment, cleaning products, and sanitation practices.
• Experience with inventory management, work orders, and custodial scheduling.
• General knowledge of plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and other building systems.
• Experience working in a school, public facility, or other high-traffic environment.

Candidates with relevant experience in facilities management, maintenance, custodial services, or team leadership are encouraged to apply. Previous school district experience is not required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Leadership: Ability to lead by example, support coworkers, and promote accountability and teamwork.
• Initiative: Willingness to recognize needs and take appropriate action without constant direction.
• Attention to Detail: Commitment to maintaining a clean, organized, and well-cared-for facility.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to assess situations, prioritize concerns, and identify practical solutions.
• Dependability: Consistent attendance, punctuality, and follow-through on assigned responsibilities.
• Communication: Ability to provide clear direction, share concerns, and maintain positive working relationships.
• Adaptability: Willingness to adjust priorities to meet the changing needs of a busy school environment.
• Safety Awareness: Commitment to protecting students, staff, coworkers, and district property.
• Professional Pride: A genuine sense of ownership and responsibility for the appearance and operation of the school.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS

This position requires the ability to perform custodial and general maintenance work in an active school environment.

Essential physical demands and working conditions may include:

• Prolonged standing and walking throughout the workday.
• Frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, pushing, pulling, and climbing.
• Regular lifting and carrying of custodial supplies, equipment, furniture, and materials.
• Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds independently and assist with heavier items using appropriate equipment or team-lifting procedures.
• Operation of commercial cleaning equipment and custodial tools.
• Working around cleaning chemicals, dust, noise, and other conditions associated with building maintenance.
• Occasional work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including snow, ice, heat, and cold.
• Use of ladders and step stools in accordance with safety procedures.
• Visual and auditory abilities necessary to recognize hazards, operate equipment, and communicate effectively.
• Occasional schedule adjustments or additional hours to address facility emergencies, school events, or seasonal cleaning needs.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

WHY JOIN RE-1 VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT? At RE-1 Valley School District, we recognize that a successful school depends on the dedication of every employee. As Head Custodian at Sterling Middle School, you will have the opportunity to:

• Make a meaningful impact: Help create a safe, healthy, and welcoming environment for students and staff.
• Take pride in your building: Play an important role in the daily appearance, upkeep, and operation of Sterling Middle School.
• Lead and support others: Help guide custodial operations and contribute to a strong, dependable team.
• Put your skills to work: Utilize your experience in custodial services, maintenance, organization, and problem-solving.
• Enjoy stable employment: Work in a full-time, year-round position with benefits.
• Be part of something bigger: Join a school district committed to preparing students for success.

BENEFITS & ELIGIBILITY

RE-1 Valley School District is proud to offer eligible employees a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:

• Employer-paid health insurance.
• Optional dental and vision insurance.
• Supplemental life insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Retirement benefits through Colorado PERA.
• Paid leave and other benefits in accordance with district policies and employee eligibility.

For additional benefits information, visit:

RE-1 Valley School District Insurance Information

APPLICATION & SELECTION PROCEDURE

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online at:

APPLY HERE – RE-1 Valley School District Employment Opportunities

Applicants should submit:

• A completed online application.
• A current cover letter or letter of interest describing their qualifications and interest in the position.
• A current professional resume.
• Three current professional letters of reference.

Applicants without internet access may use a computer available through the Human Resources Department at the Hagen Education Center, 301 Hagen Street, Sterling, Colorado. Applications will be reviewed based on qualifications and relevant experience. Selected candidates may be invited to participate in interviews. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of required post-offer screening procedures, including a background check and any applicable job-related screening.

ABOUT RE-1 VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT

RE-1 Valley School District serves students and families in Sterling and the surrounding northeastern Colorado communities. Our district is committed to "Preparing Each Student Today for Tomorrow" through meaningful educational experiences, high expectations, and a dedicated team of professionals. Sterling, Colorado, offers the benefits of a welcoming rural community with access to shopping, recreation, medical services, parks, and outdoor activities. Located in Logan County along Interstate 76, Sterling provides a strong sense of community and a great place to live and work. Learn more about our district at www.re1valleyschools.org. Equal Employment Opportunity RE-1 Valley School District is an equal opportunity employer. The District is committed to maintaining a workplace free from unlawful discrimination and harassment and makes employment decisions in accordance with applicable federal and state laws. Other Duties & Responsibilities This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Duties and responsibilities may be modified based on district needs. All employees are expected to comply with district policies, professional standards, safety procedures, and confidentiality requirements.