Custodian I

Rice University•Houston, TX

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Custodian I performs routine custodial duties to maintain safe, sanitary, and well-maintained facilities across assigned campus areas. Responsibilities include cleaning tasks such as dusting, sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, restroom sanitation, trash removal, window and surface cleaning, and basic furniture care. This role may assist with minor floor care tasks such as buffing and basic carpet maintenance, operate standard custodial equipment, and respond to routine cleaning requests. The Custodian I documents daily services, completes cleaning checklists, and supports the Custodian II or supervisory staff as needed. The ideal candidate for Custodian I is a reliable custodial professional with experience in daily cleaning practices. They are safety-conscious, adaptable, and attentive to detail. This individual works well independently and as part of a team, follows established procedures, and supports the department’s commitment to maintaining clean and welcoming campus facilities. They demonstrate a willingness to learn, follow APPA and OSHA standards, and provide responsive customer service. This is an on-campus, on-site position requiring all duties to be performed in person. Classified as essential, the Custodian I may be called to duty during inclement weather, campus closures, or other emergencies. Night and weekend work may be required. Work arrangements are subject to change per Rice policy 440 . Standard shifts (day/evening) with occasional weekend or event support. Rotating assignments across classrooms, offices, lounges, restrooms, and public spaces. This is a full-time position with benefits. Non-Exempt (hourly) positions under FLSA are eligible for overtime. In addition to joining a meaningful and mission-driven team, employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including PTO, health insurance, tuition discounts, and access to campus facilities.

Requirements

No formal education required
Zero to one year of custodial experience
Ability to operate standard custodial equipment (e.g., vacuums, floor buffers, carpet extractors under supervision)
Must be able to speak, read, and write basic English
Good interpersonal skills and ability to work as a team with others
Must be able to record work hours in Rice iO system and work task system, as needed

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent
Familiarity with OSHA custodial safety practices
Knowledge of basic APPA custodial standards

Responsibilities

Perform routine cleaning tasks, including dusting, sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, restroom sanitation, trash removal, and window and surface cleaning
Assist with minor floor care and carpet maintenance under supervision
Operate standard custodial equipment safely and effectively
Support Custodian II or supervisor with special projects or emergency cleaning tasks
Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and Rice University safety standards
Assist with inventory management and supply replenishment as directed
Support university operations during events or periods of high demand
Manage building access
Perform other duties as assigned
On-site support for campus emergencies, as needed
When short of staff, may be required to clean multiple buildings as part of daily assignments
Identifies building repairs and reports them following university protocol