Custodian , Steward Observatory

Custodian I, Steward Observatory

Posting Number: req
26798

Department:
Steward Observatory

Department Website Link: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

Location:

Tucson Campus

Address:
Tucson, AZ USA

The University of Arizona's Steward Observatory invites you to apply to the role of Custodian I. The primary purpose of this position is to maintain and clean university buildings at three remote sites used for research, education, and public outreach. These observatory sites are located on Kitt Peak, Mt. Bigelow, and Mt. Lemmon, Arizona. All of the sites include telescope domes, dormitories, and several support buildings.

This position is based in Tucson, AZ. The Custodian I will start and end each workday at Steward Observatory on the University of Arizona campus in Tucson and will drive a university vehicle between Steward Observatory and the Kitt Peak, Mt. Bigelow and/or Mt. Lemmon sites.

Due to the remote nature of these sites (approximately 1.5 hours drive time from the main UA campus), the Custodian I is typically scheduled to work four 10-hour days per week.

Steward Observatory is both a century-old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University's oldest research units. Founded in 1918, the Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world-class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground- and space-based astronomy.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

• Cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting work and living areas at remote sites.
• This includes operating cleaning equipment, using chemicals and other cleaning products safely, and laundry (primarily bed linens and towels).
• Assists with pest control at the telescope sites including setting and emptying mouse traps and cleaning/treating areas where pests have been problematic.
• Preparing for and cleaning up after large special events including camps, public programs, and visiting school groups.
• Removing trash from the sites.
• Meeting staff at designated locations and driving a UA vehicle to and from the various sites.
• Occasionally picking up and delivering supplies to and from said locations.
• Assisting in general facilities maintenance that does not require specialized training.
• Occasionally maintaining outside walkways, steps and roof tops, shoveling snow, and trimming/pruning vegetation as needed around observatory grounds.
• Replenishing and organizing cleaning supplies and equipment; maintaining inventory levels; maintaining custodial equipment; notifying appropriate staff when supplies and equipment need to be ordered, repaired or replaced.

• Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally.
• Ability to use a computer to send/respond to email (Microsoft Outlook), complete timesheets (Microsoft Excel & Beebole), fill out forms, use teleconferencing software (Zoom) and participate in electronic training courses.
• Ability to drive under varying weather conditions.
• Ability to work independently with little supervision.
• Ability to work within a team.

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to routinely climb stairs and ladders at altitude (and carry items up and down them).
• Ability to work for extended periods of time at remote sites at elevations up to 10,000 feet and in extreme mountain weather conditions including high winds, snow and thunderstorms.
• Ability to install snow chains and drive a 4x4 vehicle on mountain roads.
• Ability to work long, irregular shifts which may occasionally include weekends and holidays and to…