Senior Supervisor, Housekeeping

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.

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.

• 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.

This job description intends to provide a representative outline of the type of responsibilities that will be required of positions given this title and shall not be construed as all-encompassing or as a declaration of all specific duties and responsibilities of this position. Employees may be directed to perform job‑related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $20.60 to USD $32.96. Duke University considers factors such as (but not limited to)…