Custodian (Evening)

National Geographic•Washington, DC

1d•$21•Onsite

About The Position

The National Geographic Society headquarters, based in Washington, D.C., is undergoing a significant renovation project on its campus (called Base Camp), which will be completed in 2026. The public-facing portion of this renovation will be the new National Geographic Museum of Exploration. Components of the new museum will include a state-of-the-art pavilion entrance, auditorium, iconic photo gallery, exhibition space, immersive walk-through attraction, retail, food and beverage, education center, archives, tours, and exciting new event space. The capstone of the renovation is a one-of-a-kind nighttime experience in the courtyard. The Campus and Experiences team is responsible for creating amazing brand experiences for live audiences and delivering excellent service and operations at NGS headquarters. The team is currently focused on the Base Camp renovation project, including all construction, content and design, revenue and operations planning, and overall budget and schedule management. They also produce and generate revenue through National Geographic Live and National Geographic’s Traveling Exhibitions programs. The Campus & Experiences Division is seeking a reliable, versatile, and proactive Custodian to provide support to the Custodial Manager and Custodial Supervisor(s) to perform a variety of duties for the National Geographic Society and various tenants. This role will ensure our facility operates smoothly, cleanly, and safely. This role is a critical component of our facilities team, combining expert janitorial services with essential operational support. Key responsibilities include daily and routine or project-based cleaning, seasonal duties, setup and teardown for facility events, assistance with office relocations, and daily porter services to maintain continuous facility function. Flexibility, a can-do attitude, and a proactive approach to facility upkeep are essential. We are seeking a team member who values interoperability and is ready to jump in and support colleagues across different projects when needed. At the Museum of Exploration, we believe that our greatest successes come from shared expertise and a willingness to step outside of a single role. This isn't just a part of the job; it's a core aspect of how we operate and collaborate, reflecting the spirit of partnership that defines National Geographic's culture. This position is considered essential. Essential employees are required to report to and remain at work during emergencies. This role requires flexibility to work various shifts, which may include weekends, holidays, early mornings, or late evenings to support our year-round operations and event schedules.

Requirements

High School diploma or equivalent preferred
A minimum of 3 years of professional experience in custodial, janitorial, or commercial cleaning services is highly desirable.
Knowledge of standard cleaning methods, chemicals, materials, and janitorial equipment.
Ability to safely and effectively operate cleaning equipment, including commercial vacuums (backpack style), floor buffers, and carpet shampooers.
Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods, in various weather conditions.
Able to take direction, work with minimal supervision, and function cooperatively as part of a team.
Strong attention to detail with a pride in delivering excellent service.
Must be reliable, thorough, observant, organized, flexible, and courteous.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including any day of the week, holidays, and early morning or late evening shifts for special events.
Support various teams as needed, providing cross-trained coverage for breaks, absences, or high volume.
Assist with general museum tasks such as maintaining public spaces, providing basic visitor assistance, and helping with event setup/breakdown.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

Proven working experience in a museum, cultural institution, or other high-traffic public-facing organization is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Performs a wide range of cleaning tasks, including sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, and washing floors and other surfaces inside buildings.
Operates light and heavy commercial-type floor care equipment, such as buffers and shampoo machines.
Vacuums and spot cleans carpets and rugs in offices, exhibits, and public areas.
Cleans and dusts furniture, exhibit cases, pictures, chairs, door trim, light fixtures, and all other horizontal surfaces.
Washes windowsills and interior glass in doors and partitions to maintain a pristine appearance.
Thoroughly cleans and sanitizes all restrooms, including tile walls, shelves, and stall partitions.
Restocks all restroom supplies daily, including soap, paper towels, and toilet paper, ensuring dispensers are full and functional.
Monitors restrooms and public spaces for maintenance issues, such as clogged drains or burned-out lights, and promptly reports them to the supervisor.
Maintains cleanliness of immediate exterior areas, including entrances and walkways, by sweeping debris and removing trash from exterior receptacles.
Performs seasonal duties such as snow and ice removal from sidewalks, steps, and entrances using hand tools and chemical de-icing agents to ensure safe passage for staff and visitors.
Collects and removes building trash, recycling, and compost daily, placing materials in designated containers for removal in accordance with NGS sustainability protocols.
Replaces liners in all waste baskets and trash containers.
Provides logistical support for special events as needed, including setup and breakdown of furniture and equipment.
Maintains a professional and helpful presence in public-facing areas, proactively assisting visitors who may need guidance or assistance.
Works collaboratively with colleagues across departments to ensure seamless operations and a positive visitor experience.

Benefits

medical, dental, and vision insurance
engaging and comprehensive wellness program
401(k) retirement savings plan with matching contributions after 6 months of employment
flexible paid time off benefits with up to 22 days of paid annual leave per calendar year (15 days for new hires in their first year, prorated based on the number of pay periods remaining in the year) and 10 days of sick leave
12 paid holidays and a paid winter break between December 25 and 31
paid parental leave, adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility benefits
learning and development opportunities
Lifestyle Spending Account
pet adoption assistance and insurance
pre-tax transportation benefits with a generous employer subsidy
employer-paid life insurance and disability benefit
a variety of National Geographic discounts and perks