Custodian Lead; On-site

Overview

Custodian Lead (On-site) at University of California, Merced

Posting is open until filled. Initial applicant review will begin on or around September 18, 2025. This is a full-time, on-site union position represented by AFSCME:
Service - SX.

Salary range: $21.91/hr - $27.21/hr realized minimum pay for this position starts at $25/hr; steps below $25/hr include an additional amount elevating to $25/hr.

The University of California, Merced is the newest campus in the UC system and is designated as an R1 research university. It serves about 9,100 students and emphasizes cutting-edge research and education in the San Joaquin Valley.

Location:

UC Merced campus. This position is fully on-site and may require working weekdays, night shifts, graveyard shifts, weekends, and holidays.

• Performs custodial duties in assigned areas, including floor care projects, window cleaning, and emergency response cleaning; cleans restrooms, offices, classrooms, and teaching spaces as scheduled.
• Cleans assigned areas in campus buildings, maintains restrooms, vacuums, and supports custodial coverage during absences.
• Maintains cleaning equipment, ensures it is in working order, and stores it securely.
• Ensures security of assigned areas and keys; checks windows and doors and keeps access cards on person while working.
• Directs or provides backup custodial services as needed; assists in training new employees and conducts inspections.

• Provides direction to assigned Senior Custodians in the absence of the area supervisor to ensure daily duties are completed satisfactorily.
• Inspects custodial work to meet standards and safety requirements; conducts on-the-job training for new employees.
• Manages daily distribution and collection of custodial keys to senior staff; supports customer service by maintaining a clean, safe, and comfortable work environment.
• Coordinates with campus departments (Police, Grounds, Maintenance) on safety, repairs, and access issues; escalates concerns to supervisor as needed.

• Writes or submits maintenance work orders and follows up on completion; conducts monthly supply inventory and reports results to supervisor.
• Attends staff meetings and training; communicates custodial duties and facilities information to stakeholders.
• Reports health or safety concerns to the Environmental Health and Safety Office; supports policy and procedure improvements to increase efficiency.
• Meets with campus customers to assess satisfaction and address issues; processes work orders for problems identified during inventory checks.

Education and Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent certification/experience.
• Two years of custodial experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Critical Knowledge and Skills

• Ability to read, write, perform basic arithmetic, and communicate effectively with the public, students, and staff.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions; prioritize workload and adapt to changing priorities.
• Knowledge of general and specialized custodial duties; operate custodial equipment (vacuums, floor scrubbers, buffers, carpet steam extractors).
• Ability to safeguard access cards and keys; conduct periodic training in custodial procedures and equipment safety.
• Knowledge of campus driving rules; observe general safe working practices.

Background check required. EEO policy applies. UC Merced is an equal opportunity employer and supports a smoke- and tobacco-free workplace. E-Verify may be used for specific positions as required by federal contracts.