Senior Supervisor, Housekeeping

Duke Careers • Durham, NC

4d • $20 - $32 • Onsite

About The Position

Duke University: Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America’s leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.  Positional Summary
Perform supervisory duties in the care, cleaning, and general housekeeping of several buildings, residence areas, or sections of large buildings of Duke University; hire and train new employees; conduct first step grievance hearings.

Requirements

• Work requires the ability to provide instructions and maintain records generally acquired through a partial high school education.
• Work requires four years of cleaning or related experience to obtain knowledge of the scope of housekeeping unit operations or four years of supervisory experience to become familiar with accepted supervisory and personnel practices and standards.
• OR ANY OTHER EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE.

Nice To Haves

• Proven experience supervising housekeeping staff in a healthcare, educational, or hospitality environment.
• Demonstrated ability to lead diverse teams and foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, and excellence.
• Experience in onboarding, training, and mentoring housekeeping employees to ensure adherence to cleaning standards and safety protocols.
• Familiarity with creating and implementing training programs to improve team performance and address skill gaps.
• Strong ability to lead, supervise, and motivate diverse teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective delegation and ability to manage multiple priorities, ensuring timely and high-quality results.
• Experience in fostering teamwork and maintaining a positive, professional workplace culture.
• In-depth understanding of housekeeping best practices, cleaning techniques, and sanitation standards, particularly in healthcare or academic settings.
• Proven ability to train, mentor, and develop staff to meet organizational standards and improve team performance.
• Skill in identifying staff development needs and implementing practical solutions to address them.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, focusing on attention to detail and efficiency.
• Ability to analyze challenges, troubleshoot issues, and develop practical solutions for operational success.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with staff, leadership, and other departments.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships, resolve conflicts, and ensure high levels of staff engagement and satisfaction.
• Proficiency in maintaining records, managing schedules, and overseeing supply inventory and budgets.
• Knowledge of using facility management software and tools to streamline housekeeping operations.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements, including OSHA standards, infection control protocols, and safety guidelines.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant work environment for all team members.
• Demonstrated dedication to delivering exceptional service and maintaining high cleanliness standards across all facilities.
• Ability to adapt to evolving needs and implement strategies for continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direct supervision to housekeeping staff, ensuring high-quality cleanliness and sanitation standards throughout the facility.
• Establish and maintain housekeeping schedules and assign employees to areas for various housekeeping duties; conduct comprehensive inspections to check the completion of work assignments.
• Ensure that assignments are appropriately staffed and that employees have adequate supplies and equipment for the completion of tasks.
• Conduct regular meetings to communicate goals, expectations, organizational updates and general housekeeping procedures with personnel of the assigned area; recommend and implement procedure changes.
• Perform various personnel functions including, but not limited to, hiring, terminations, promotions, transfers, and vacation schedules; conduct first-step grievance hearings.
• Address performance issues promptly and professionally through coaching, counseling, or corrective actions.
• Monitor and ensure the training of new housekeeping employees on cleaning protocols, safety standards, and proper use of cleaning equipment.
• Identify skill gaps and provide continuous training opportunities to enhance staff performance.
• Monitor and evaluate staff performance, providing constructive feedback and recognition for exceptional work, in line with organizational policies.
• Maintain records and submit reports concerning personnel, equipment, supplies, expenses, and general housekeeping activities.
• Ensure adherence to workplace policies, health regulations, and environmental safety standards.
• Develop and enforce procedures for cleaning and maintaining all areas, including restrooms, dorms, and common areas.
• Work closely with other departments to coordinate cleaning schedules and address specific needs or complaints.
• Foster a positive team environment by promoting open communication and teamwork.
• Take necessary action to correct any mechanical, structural, or electrical condition needing repair or replacement.
• Respond to unexpected situations (e.g., staffing shortages, facility emergencies) by reallocating resources efficiently.
• Implement solutions to improve workflow, enhance efficiency, and maintain quality standards.
• Oversee inventory of cleaning supplies and equipment, ensuring availability and proper usage.
• Recommend procurement of new tools or supplies to meet operational needs.
• Perform related duties as assigned or required to meet departmental, Division, and University goals and objectives as assigned by their Supervisor, Director, or respective designees.

Benefits

• Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members. Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED