Housekeeper; Buildings & Grounds

Housekeeper

The Housekeeper is responsible for cleaning and maintaining common areas within buildings and dormitories, including restrooms, to ensure a safe, sanitary, and welcoming environment for all guests, residents, and staff. This role supports the Buildings & Grounds Department's mission of providing a premier experience for patrons through consistent, high-quality facility care. This is an entry-level position; no prior work experience is required.

The Housekeeper works under the direction of the Housekeeping Supervisor and as part of a collaborative facilities team.

About the Work

• Clean and maintain common areas, hallways, dormitories, and restrooms to established cleanliness and safety standards.
• Pick up trash and debris, vacuum, empty wastebaskets, and transport waste to designated disposal areas.
• Scrub, sanitize, and disinfect restrooms using approved chemical products, including fixtures, floors, mirrors, doors, sinks, and toilets.
• Replenish restroom and cleaning supplies, including soap, paper towels, toilet paper, urinal cakes, and batteries for automatic dispensers.
• Perform deep-cleaning tasks during seasonal building openings and closures, which may include cleaning carpets, ceilings, drapes, upholstered furniture, walls, and windows.
• Complete cleaning tasks efficiently and effectively, prioritizing work based on direction from the Housekeeping Supervisor without compromising quality.
• Stock, label, and properly store cleaning supplies; ensure supplies are secured in locked storage areas.
• Report supply needs, damages, maintenance concerns, pest activity, or safety hazards to a supervisor promptly.
• Follow established procedures for logging and reporting lost guest items.
• Adhere to all safety guidelines and internal procedures related to the use of chemical cleaners to prevent injury or damage.
• Interact courteously and professionally with guests, residents, and staff.
• Maintain appearance standards, including wearing the approved uniform while on duty.
• Establish and maintain cooperative and productive working relationships with team members.

About You

Education

• High school diploma or GED required.

Experience

• No prior housekeeping or custodial experience is required; training is provided.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic understanding of cleaning practices and workplace safety principles (training provided).
• Awareness of the importance of cleanliness, sanitation, and guest service in shared spaces.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to use cleaning tools and equipment safely and effectively.
• Time-management skills to complete assigned tasks within required time frames.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality and consistency.
• Ability to perform physical tasks such as standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying cleaning supplies.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Ability to work indoors for extended periods and tolerate exposure to cleaning chemicals with proper safety measures.

About Chautauqua Institution

Chautauqua Institution is a not-for-profit global convener of dialogue on the most significant issues of the day through engagement across four pillars of the arts, education, religion, and recreation. The Chautauqua community is located on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York State and comes alive each summer with a unique mix of visual and performing arts, lectures, interfaith worship/programs, and recreational activities.

Chautauqua Institution owns and operates Chautauqua Hotel Company, a comprehensive hotel, food & beverage, conference, and events organization.

About Your Department

The Maintenance & Facilities Department is responsible for the care, maintenance, and overall stewardship of Chautauqua Institution's facilities, venues, dormitories, and campus grounds. From buildings and infrastructure to gardens, landscaping, and housekeeping, the department plays a critical role in preserving the safety, functionality, and distinctive beauty of the Institution. Team members work collaboratively across trades and disciplines to support daily operations, seasonal programming, and special events, helping to create a welcoming and well-maintained environment for residents, staff, and visitors.

About Your Work Schedule & Location

This position is at Chautauqua Institution's main campus in Southwestern New York (Chautauqua County). The schedule is full time and may include daytime and evening hours, weekdays, and weekends, especially in the busy summer operating…