Custodian

Custodian Position

Accepts and implements the YWCA mission to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

The Custodian is responsible for maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming environment across YWCA Delaware facilities, including emergency shelter, transitional housing, offices, and community spaces. This role supports the health, safety, and dignity of residents, staff, and visitors by ensuring all areas are sanitary, well-maintained, and comfortable. The Custodian plays an important role in supporting a trauma-informed environment for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, and sexual assault.

This position reports to the Facilities Director.

Primary Accountabilities (may include, but not limited to):

Cleaning & Sanitation

• Clean and sanitize bathrooms, kitchens, common areas, hallways, and offices.
• Sweep, mop, vacuum, and maintain floors and carpets.
• Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces such as door handles, railings, and shared equipment.
• Empty trash and recycling containers and dispose of waste properly.
• Maintain laundry areas and ensure cleanliness of shared facilities.

Shelter Environment Support

• Help maintain clean and welcoming residential spaces for shelter residents.
• Prepare rooms for new residents by cleaning and resetting spaces.
• Assist with room turnover and cleaning after residents transition out.
• Maintain cleanliness of play areas, meeting rooms, and community spaces.

Facility Maintenance Support

• Report maintenance issues such as leaks, broken fixtures, or safety hazards to the Facilities Director.
• Perform minor maintenance tasks such as changing light bulbs, replacing supplies, and basic repairs when appropriate.
• Assist with seasonal maintenance tasks including snow removal preparation or light outdoor cleaning.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow established safety procedures when using cleaning chemicals and equipment.
• Ensure cleaning supplies are properly stored and secured.
• Maintain compliance with health and sanitation standards.
• Support emergency cleaning needs when necessary.

Inventory & Supplies

• Monitor cleaning supplies and notify supervisor when restocking is needed.
• Maintain organization of custodial closets and equipment.
• Ensure proper use and care of cleaning tools and equipment.

Other Duties: As assigned.

Requirements

Education:

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous custodial, janitorial, or facilities cleaning experience preferred.
• Experience working in residential facilities, shelters, schools, healthcare, or nonprofits is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of basic cleaning practices and sanitation standards.
• Ability to safely use cleaning chemicals and equipment.
• Attention to detail and ability to maintain high cleanliness standards.
• Ability to work independently and follow cleaning schedules.
• Respect for confidentiality and sensitivity when working in shelter environments.
• Ability to interact respectfully with residents, staff, and visitors.

Essential Job Functions:

Working Environment:

• Regular on-site presence.
• May require occasional evening or weekend response to facility emergencies.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 30–40 pounds.
• Ability to operate basic custodial equipment such as vacuums, mops, and floor cleaners.
• Work occurs in residential shelter, office, and program facilities.
• May involve exposure to cleaning chemicals.

Other:

Valid, insurable driver's license. Criminal background may be required. Flexibility to work evenings and weekends.

Benefits: We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, plus others
• 17 PTO days (with carryover when approved)
• 10 sick days (with carryover when approved)
• Wellness Paid Day Off
• 35-hour work week