Custodian, SPHH

Position Description:

The Custodian plays an essential role in the daily, orderly operation of WPA's Manhattan-based family shelter. This position is responsible for routine cleaning, basic maintenance, and ensuring that all spaces are safe, sanitary, and welcoming for staff and residents. The schedule for this position includes four (4) weekdays and one (1) weekend day per week.

The Custodian will work closely with Social Services and Security staff, as well as the facility's Maintenance Mechanic, to support smooth shelter operations. The ideal candidate is organized, dependable, adaptable, and team-oriented, with a commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for families residing in temporary shelter.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform daily cleaning and sanitation of dormitories, restrooms, offices, hallways, common areas, and building entrances to ensure a safe, orderly, and welcoming environment.
• Collect, remove, and properly dispose of garbage; sort and discard recyclables in accordance with building policies and NYC Department of Sanitation regulations.
• Complete routine maintenance tasks including painting, patching, simple carpentry, and adjusting basic fixtures in coordination with the Facilities Maintenance Mechanic.
• Regularly monitor the facility to identify, report, and help address needed or anticipated repairs.
• Complete preventive maintenance checklists and scheduled tasks as directed by supervisor.
• Assist in preparing the facility for inspections by DHS, OTDA, FDNY, DOHMH, DOB, and other regulatory agencies.
• Maintain inventory of cleaning products and paper goods; request replenishments to ensure supplies remain stocked.
• Load, unload, and distribute equipment and supplies throughout the facility.
• Accept and verify deliveries of equipment and supplies, ensuring accurate documentation and providing receipts to supervisor.
• Arrange furniture, equipment, and program space as needed for resident and staff use.
• Escort outside contractors, inspectors, and visitors throughout the building as directed by supervisor.
• Collaborate closely with Program and Security staff to address maintenance needs and ensure smooth daily operations.
• Participate in required training sessions and ongoing professional development.
• Perform other duties or special projects as assigned by supervisor or leadership.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Trade school or formal training in building maintenance and repairs preferred.
• Valid driver's license and excellent driving record preferred.

Experience Required

• Experience in facility cleaning, general maintenance, and repairs.
• Basic skills in plumbing, electrical, carpentry, drywall, painting, and other related trades a plus.
• Prior experience working with diverse populations, including individuals impacted by substance abuse, incarceration, HIV/AIDS, mental health, and domestic violence, preferred.
• Bilingual English/Spanish strongly preferred but not required.

Competencies

• Experience in facility cleaning, general maintenance, and repairs.
• Ability to handle physical tasks such as lifting, carrying, and moving heavy items, as well as prolonged standing, stair climbing, and ladder use.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills when engaging with staff and residents.
• Demonstrated empathy and compassion for the client population served by WPA.
• Reliable, adaptable, and attentive to detail in completing maintenance and custodial tasks.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, particularly in high-pressure or crisis situations.
• Strong commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, with a passion for social justice.
• Commitment to confidentiality, cultural humility, and professional integrity.
• Alignment with WPA's vision to make incarceration obsolete by supporting women in their communities.

Compensation, Perks & Benefits*:

Salary range is $20/hour commensurate with certifications, education and experience. WPA offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being, growth, and success of our staff. Our benefits reflect our commitment to creating a workplace where people feel valued and supported.

Health & Wellness

• Health & Vision insurance
• Employer-paid dental coverage
• 100% premium paid Short- and Long-Term Disability
• Paid family and medical leave
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Companywide Wellness Challenges

Time Off & Flexibility

• 12 paid holidays, including a paid holiday week between Christmas and New Year's
• Floating holidays and Personal days
• Hybrid work options for various roles

Financial Benefits

• 403(b) retirement plan
• Credit union membership options
• Direct deposit and Brinks MoneyCard option
• Tax-deferred commuting benefits via ThrivePass
• 529 college savings plan
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• "Aspiring Professionals" Scholarship Program

Growth & Development

• WPA University ~ Learning Management System (LMS) for on-demand learning
• Internal & External training opportunities
• CUNY sponsored scholarship to HSCAS for employee education

Extra Perks

• Access to the "Alcott HR Marketplace" employee discount program

• Milestone Celebrations & Awards

• Benefits eligibility may vary based on the number of hours worked

WPA strongly values diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. We're proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All hires to our team are based on qualifications, merit, and organizational needs. We recruit, employ, train, and promote regardless of systems involvement and race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, genetic characteristic, or any other protected status. Faithful to our mission, all of our employees share in these commitments as a guide to engage one another with dignity and respect. Individuals with criminal justice involvement are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please email your resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to You must include "Custodian, SPHH (Full-time)" in the subject line of your email.