Janitorial Lead

RW Solutions Inc•Chicago, IL

About The Position

CW Resources is seeking a working Lead Custodian to contribute to the daily upkeep, cleanliness, and safety of a facility while guiding, mentoring, and supporting a custodial team primarily made up of adults with disabilities. The role combines hands-on custodial work with job coaching, helping team members build workplace skills, stay motivated, and succeed. The lead explains tasks and standards clearly, demonstrates safe practices, observes work, provides constructive feedback, addresses challenges and accommodations, and tracks team progress. The position includes cleaning and disinfecting restrooms; maintaining floors, offices, halls, classrooms, shared spaces, entrances, stairs, and elevators; emptying waste and recycling; cleaning surfaces; restocking supplies; and reporting maintenance issues or hazards. The lead also secures the building at the beginning and end of shifts, operates cleaning equipment safely, handles cleaning products responsibly, and works alongside the team through daily tasks and end-of-day cleanup. CW Resources is a national nonprofit organization and part of CW Group. It describes its workplace as supportive and respectful and its work as mission-driven, with a focus on valuing employees, empowering individuals, and strengthening communities. Applicants eligible for the AbilityOne Program are invited to apply. Reasonable accommodations can be provided.

Requirements

At least 2 years of hands-on janitorial experience in commercial, industrial, educational, or government facilities.
Strong knowledge of cleaning practices and safety procedures.
Experience operating commercial cleaning equipment, such as floor scrubbers, buffers, carpet extractors, and power washers.
Comfort giving instructions and demonstrating cleaning tasks.
Ability to stay organized, follow daily routines, and track supplies or maintenance needs.
Valid driver’s license.
Valid Real ID.
Must be able to obtain and maintain government base access.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of OSHA safety standards, chemical handling, and proper personal protective equipment use.
Problem-solving skills, including identifying supply shortages or equipment failures and escalating them appropriately.
Attention to detail and ability to meet cleaning quality standards.
Time management and task-prioritization skills, particularly when coordinating multiple assignments.
Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks without constant supervision.
Good communication skills and a helpful, team-oriented attitude.

Responsibilities

Teach custodial staff proper cleaning techniques, safety procedures, and equipment use.
Encourage team members, build confidence, and help them develop workplace skills and independence.
Explain tasks, timelines, and performance standards clearly; demonstrate new tasks as needed.
Observe work, monitor progress, provide constructive feedback, and adapt coaching as needed.
Help team members overcome task, communication, or workplace-adjustment challenges; track progress and accommodations required.
Coordinate daily assignments, distribute tools and equipment, and work alongside the team on cleaning tasks.
Clean and disinfect restrooms, including sinks, toilets, mirrors, and floors.
Sweep, mop, vacuum, and maintain floors in offices, halls, classrooms, and shared spaces.
Empty trash and recycling bins and transport waste to designated disposal areas.
Wipe windows, doors, walls, and glass surfaces; dust desks, shelves, and other surfaces.
Restock restroom and breakroom supplies, including soap, toilet paper, and paper towels.
Maintain entrances, stairs, and elevators so they remain clean, safe, and accessible.
Identify and report maintenance issues and hazards, such as broken lights or leaks.
Lock and unlock doors at the beginning and end of shifts to secure the building.
Operate vacuums, floor machines, cleaning carts, and other equipment safely; handle cleaning products responsibly and follow safety procedures.
Monitor busy areas and ensure equipment is used safely and cleaning standards are met.
Complete end-of-day tasks, put away supplies, clean shared tools and equipment, and discuss team progress and areas to practice.