Custodian Lead

Description

The South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) owns and operates the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF). The Custodian Lead is responsible for overseeing custodial operations, ensuring a clean, orderly, and safe environment. This role includes first-line supervision of custodial staff, scheduling work assignments, performing custodial duties, and maintaining supply inventory. The Custodian Lead works closely with management to uphold safety standards and operational efficiency.

The South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) owns and operates the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF). The Custodian Lead is responsible for overseeing custodial operations, ensuring a clean, orderly, and safe environment. This role includes first-line supervision of custodial staff, scheduling work assignments, performing custodial duties, and maintaining supply inventory. The Custodian Lead works closely with management to uphold safety standards and operational efficiency.

• First-line supervision and coordination of custodial staff, ensuring completion of assigned tasks.
• Perform and oversee heavy cleaning tasks such as sweeping, vacuuming, buffing floors; shampooing rugs; washing windows, walls and glass; and emptying trash receptacles.
• Ensure restrooms, locker rooms, and other surfaces touched frequently are cleaned and disinfected.
• Monitor and maintain inventory of custodial supplies; submit supply requests as needed.
• Conduct light maintenance in and around the facility.
• Respond to and report emergency custodial situations.

• Train custodial staff on proper cleaning techniques, safety procedures, and use of equipment.
• Operate and ensure proper maintenance of power equipment such as forklifts, carpet extractors, pressure washers, hand tools, and facility vehicles.
• Perform minor groundskeeping duties, including clearing snow and debris from sidewalks.
• Monitor building security and safety by locking doors after hours and ensuring proper appliance use.
• Maintain consistent and reliable attendance.
• Perform other job‑related duties as assigned.

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.

• N/A.

• Minimum of two years of custodial experience.
• Minimum one year in a supervisory/leadership role.

• Strong leadership and team coordination skills.
• Knowledge of proper cleaning methods and maintenance techniques.
• Familiarity with chemical safety regulations and handling hazardous materials.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to complete tasks accurately and efficiently.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Adaptability to changing priorities and work conditions.
• Ability to guide, train and mentor custodial staff.
• Understanding and compliance with SURF’s safety programs.

• Work may be performed in both surface and underground environments.
• Work is usually performed indoors, but may include limited outdoors tasks.
• Exposure to dirty or unpleasant conditions, cleaning chemicals, heights, confined spaces, dust, and varying temperatures.
• Noise levels vary from quiet (administrative spaces) to moderate/loud (operational areas), requiring hearing protection.
• Compliance with SDSTA’s safety regulations and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory.
• Expected to uphold SDSTA’s core values:
  Safety Focused, Care for Others, Professionalism, and Teamwork.
• Some tasks, such as cleaning restrooms and trash areas, are dirty or unpleasant.

Lifting/moving objects up to 50 lbs. unassisted.

Walking long distances, standing for extended periods, and frequent bending.

Working from ladders, scaffolding, and confined spaces.

Operating heavy equipment, hand tools, and power tools.

Supervisory Duties:
Yes

Direct Reports:
Custodian

Work Arrangements:
On-Site

Hours:

Morning/Afternoon Shift Work

Travel Required:

0%

Mission:
We advance world-class science and inspire learning across generations.

Vision:
The world’s preferred location for…