Lead Custodian

Founded in 1898, Waynflete is an independent, coeducational day school situated in the historic West End of Portland, Maine. We serve approximately 550–600 students ranging from Early Childhood (starting at age 3) through Grade 12. Known for our commitment to progressive education and a low student-to-teacher ratio, we offer a rigorous yet supportive academic environment. Every employee is expected to embrace the values in our Statement of Mission, Beliefs, and Goals, demonstrating kindness, courtesy, and respect for all community members. We are seeking a Lead Custodian for a hands-on leadership role that is essential to the daily operations and cleanliness of our campus. In this role, you will oversee a team of approximately 6 custodial staff members while actively working alongside them to complete daily maintenance and cleaning tasks.

Key Responsibilities

Actively participate in all daily hands-on cleaning duties alongside the team to maintain high facility standards. Ensure the school facilities are maintained in a manner that guarantees cleanliness and safety for all community members. Supervise, support, and schedule a custodial team of 6 employees. Reference, update, and ensure compliance with daily custodial assignments outlined in the school's custodial task list.

Audit completed work daily and guide the team using provided standards and checklists. Manage cleaning supplies, oversee inventory, and report campus maintenance issues to appropriate departments. Support the process of readying the campus after winter storms, including shoveling snow and spreading ice melt. Support housekeeping preparations, setup, takedown, and cleanup of school events throughout the year.

Qualifications

& Skills To perform this job successfully, candidates must meet the following requirements: Education: High School Diploma or equivalent training is required. Further certifications in facility management or safety protocols are preferred. Experience: 3–5 years of experience in custodial or facilities work is required.

At least 1–2 years in a supervisory or team-lead capacity is required. Safety Knowledge: Must possess knowledge of the safe use of cleaning supplies and associated equipment within a school setting. Technology Skills: Proficiency in Google Suite Software (Gmail, Google Docs, Spreadsheets, Drive, Calendar) and Microsoft Office Software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is required.

The candidate must also be able to navigate school security systems (alarming buildings, locking doors) and manage files for task tracking. Desired Attributes Exceptional Communication: Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate empathetically and effectively with coworkers, students, parents, and campus guests.

Proactive Self-Starter: Shows high initiative and self-motivation, capable of working independently while remaining committed to team goals. Relational Approach: Displays a patient, approachable, and empathetic demeanor, prioritizing supportive professional relationships. Problem-Solving Skills: Possesses strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to resolve facility issues and handle unexpected operational challenges effectively.

Adaptability & Flexibility: Demonstrates the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, remaining flexible and responsive to changing events, school schedules, and unpredictable weather conditions. Physical Demands The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. The role frequently requires standing, walking, sitting, using hands to handle or feel, reaching with hands and arms, climbing or balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.

The employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee must be able to work in various environmental conditions, including temperature/humidity variations, ground cover/flooring variations, and cleaning-related odors. The ability to operate various motorized floor machines and robotic floor cleaners is required.

Schedule & Compensation Classification: This is a 12-month, Level I position classified as Non-exempt under FLSA guidelines. This role is not eligible for remote work.

Compensation

$26-29/hour, depending on experience Schedule: Standard work hours are typically 3:00pm–11:30pm during the school year, and 10:00am–6:30pm during non-school days such as vacations and summer. Hours may fluctuate, and overtime is likely during school events and winter snow removal.

Benefits

Waynflete offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits. Level I employees are typically eligible for ICHRA health insurance, dental insurance, life and disability insurance, and participation in the school’s retirement plan. This level may also be eligible for tuition assistance and tuition benefits for children enrolled at Waynflete.

Generous PTO including 3 weeks vacation, up to 12 sick days, 2 personal days, and 14 paid holidays. Employment Type: All employees are hired on an at-will basis. Waynflete School is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. To apply, please click below and upload a resume, cover letter, and three references. Applications will be reviewed immediately and the position will remain open until filled. No phone calls, please.