Job Description

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.

Special Instructions to Applicants: Applicants should attach a resume and cover letter in PDF format to the Supporting Documents section of the application.

Workplace Requirements

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. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

Work Schedule

• Standard shifts (day/evening) with occasional weekend or event support
• Rotating assignments across classrooms, offices, lounges, restrooms, and public spaces

Hiring Range

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position, and the starting rate is $18.00 an hour. Non-Exempt (hourly) positions under FLSA are eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements

• No formal education required
• Zero to one year of custodial experience

Skills:

• 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 part of a team
• Must be able to record work hours in the Rice IO system and work task system as needed

Preferences

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

Essential Functions

• 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

Additional Duties

• On-site support for campus emergencies as needed
• When short-staffed, may be required to clean multiple buildings as part of daily assignments
• Identifies building repairs and reports them following university protocol

Working Conditions

Physical Demands: This is a physically active role requiring the ability to exert up to 50 lbs of force occasionally, up to 30 lbs frequently, and up to 20 lbs constantly. Duties involve walking or standing for long periods, bending, crouching, kneeling, lifting, reaching, and performing tasks requiring good vision and coordination.

Work Environment and Hazards: Work is primarily indoors across offices, classrooms, laboratories, athletic facilities, and covered walkways. Exposure to temperature extremes may occur in non–climate-controlled areas. Tasks may involve wet surfaces and possible exposure to cleaning chemicals.

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits

Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. If an applicant requires a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please contact Rice University’s Human Resources Office via email at facstaffada@rice.edu for support.

If you have any additional questions, please email us at jobs@rice.edu. Thank you for your interest in employment with Rice University.