Porter/ Groundskeeper

About Meritus Property Group

Meritus is comprised of a committed team of commercial and multi-family management professionals that take great pride in being stewards of the built environment, operating assets efficiently, and providing an outstanding tenant experience.

Part of the Ethos family of companies, Meritus currently operates retail, commercial, industrial, and multifamily properties in the Portland, Oregon metro area, including the Willamette Valley and Vancouver, Washington, through the Seattle, Washington metro area.

Multi-Site Floating Porter / Groundskeeper

Position Summary

The Multi-Site Floating Porter / Groundskeeper is responsible for maintaining the overall cleanliness, curb appeal, and rent-ready presentation of multiple assigned apartment communities. This role supports property operations by ensuring common areas, grounds, amenities, vacant units, and exterior spaces are clean, orderly, and well-presented at all times.

This position requires a dependable, detail-oriented, and self-motivated individual who can work independently across multiple properties, manage priorities efficiently, meet deadlines, and communicate property concerns promptly to management.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Property Grounds and Common Area Maintenance

• Maintain the cleanliness and appearance of all assigned property grounds.
• Pick up trash, debris, cigarette butts, pet waste, and other litter throughout the property.
• Clean and maintain common areas including leasing offices, clubhouses, laundry rooms, hallways, stairwells, elevators, trash areas, mailrooms, amenities, and exterior walkways.
• Sweep, mop, vacuum, wipe down surfaces, clean windows, and perform other routine cleaning duties as needed.
• Ensure trash enclosures, dumpsters, and surrounding areas remain clean and free of overflow or debris.
• Monitor curb appeal and assist with keeping entrances, signage areas, parking lots, sidewalks, breezeways, and landscaping areas neat and presentable.

Vacant Unit "Spiffing" and Rent-Ready Support

• Prepare vacant units for leasing tours by completing light "spiffing" and presentation tasks.
• Ensure vacant units are fresh, clean, odor-free, and visually rent-ready prior to prospect or applicant tours.
• Wipe down surfaces, sweep or vacuum floors, remove dust, check for trash or leftover items, and ensure the unit presents well.
• Report any maintenance, cleanliness, odor, pest, damage, or presentation issues immediately to the appropriate manager.
• Partner with leasing and maintenance teams to help ensure vacant homes meet company presentation standards.

Property Inspections and Reporting

• Walk assigned properties regularly to identify cleanliness, safety, maintenance, or curb appeal concerns.
• Report any observed issues to upper management in a timely and professional manner.
• Identify and communicate concerns such as vandalism, lighting outages, leaks, trip hazards, unauthorized dumping, pest activity, damaged property, overflowing trash, or resident-related concerns.
• Document work performed and property observations as required.

Software and Administrative Responsibilities

• Use company property management software to document tasks, updates, work orders, inspections, or property-related notes as assigned.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with supervisors, property teams, vendors, and residents when needed.
• Follow assigned schedules, routes, checklists, and timelines.
• Maintain accurate communication regarding completed work, pending issues, and supply needs.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in cleaning, portering, groundskeeping, janitorial work, or related property maintenance support.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Reliable vehicle required.
• Valid automobile insurance required.
• Ability to travel between multiple assigned properties during the workday.
• Ability to use property management software, mobile apps, email, and basic technology.
• Strong attention to detail and pride in presentation.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.
• Reliable, punctual, diligent, and efficient work style.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to identify property issues and escalate concerns appropriately.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, push, pull, and lift throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds as needed.
• Ability to walk large apartment communities, stairs, hallways, parking lots, and exterior grounds.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to safely use basic cleaning supplies, tools, carts, and equipment.

Key Competencies

• Dependability and punctuality
• Strong work ethic
• Detail orientation
• Independent follow-through
• Time management
• Clear communication
• Curb appeal awareness
• Professionalism
• Problem identification and reporting
• Ability to support multiple properties efficiently

Work Environment

This is a floating, multi-site position supporting multiple apartment communities. The employee will regularly travel between assigned properties and perform work both indoors and outdoors. The role requires flexibility, accountability, and the ability to maintain consistent standards across multiple locations.

Compensation and Schedule

Compensation and schedule will be based on experience, portfolio needs, and assigned property locations. Weekend or occasional after-hours support may be required based on business needs.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.