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Custodian II

  • 514301
  • New York, United States
  • Staff
  • Opening on: Jul 16 2026
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707 UNION

Job Summary/Basic Function:

The ideal candidate for the Custodian II position should have a thorough understanding of all custodial project work. They must be capable of working independently and possess strong problem-solving skills. The incumbent is expected to maintain high cleaning standards in both residential and academic buildings, performing various tasks to uphold cleanliness and safety. Responsibilities include working in both indoor and outdoor environments while engaging courteously with students, staff, and faculty to foster positive customer service relationships.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Collect and dispose of garbage and recycling according to the Sanitation Department schedule, ensuring proper bag replacement and compactor maintenance.
  • Sweep, vacuum, mop, strip, wax, and buff floors in assigned areas. Spot clean and shampoo carpets as needed.
  • Clean and disinfect restrooms and kitchen areas, replenishing supplies and addressing minor plumbing needs.
  • Clean and prepare guest, student, and transient rooms for move-in/move-out, including linen washing and folding.
  • Wash and polish mirrors, glass, brass, walls, and doors. Dust and wipe down surfaces such as window sills, moldings, fixtures, handrails, and furniture.
  • Sweep, hose, and clean sidewalks, courtyards, basements, and alleyways. Perform snow removal as needed.
  • Track inventory levels and report needs to the supervisor. Replace light bulbs or escalate maintenance requests when necessary.
  • Respond to maintenance requests, report safety or security concerns, and coordinate with supervisors on necessary repairs.
  • Move heavy furniture, supplies, and miscellaneous equipment as directed.
  • Maintain radio or beeper communication, follow department protocols, and complete work orders as required.
  • Perform additional tasks as assigned to support the overall upkeep and cleanliness of facilities.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school education or GED
  • Excellent communication skills; ability to work cooperatively and effectively with supervisors, staff and students, and faculty, as well as independently
  • Ability to perform effective cleaning techniques and operate cleaning equipment including scrubbing and waxing
  • Ability to lift and move heavy objects (minimum of 50 pounds) on a regular basis with efficiency
  • Physical mobility (stooping, bending, kneeling, lifting, standing, walking, climbing, twisting, stretching, reaching), and vision and hearing acuity appropriate to the efficient and effective cleaning workstation tasks and reception of oral and written instructions and communication
  • Ability and willingness to update knowledge of cleaning products, materials, and cleaning machines; current health and safety practices and standards
  • Compactor experience
  • Work effectively under time pressure
  • Ability and fitness to do the job, including the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and climb ladders up to 25 feet.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Advanced knowledge of project cleaning equipment.
  • 5 years work with hazardous chemicals.
  • 7 years experience in stripping and wax floor, extracting carpets and cutting hard floor surfaces.

Salary Range:

$26.36/hr

Work Modality:

Onsite

Competitive Compensation and Benefits 

The salary for this position is determined by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). New hires start at 75% of the full rate, increasing to 100% after 24 months. Employees receive subsequent annual increases based on the terms outlined in the contract. Overtime, comp time, and banked vacation time eligible. 

Our benefits contribute significantly to the total compensation package and are subject to the terms of the CBA. These benefits include medical, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance plans; life insurance; short and long-term disability insurance;  eligibility for pension plan, an exceptional employer retirement matching program; Health Savings Accounts (HSA), and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), tuition remission for employee & dependents, a shoe allowance, Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility, and a robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Equal Employment Opportunity

Teachers College is committed to fostering an inclusive academic community and to providing equal opportunity in employment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of race, color, sex, religion, creed, national origin, age, citizenship, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other category protected by applicable law.

If you would like to discuss any disability-related accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, or a similar law, related to applying for employment at Teachers College, Columbia University, please email the Office of Access and Services for Individuals with Disabilities: oasid@tc.columbia.edu

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