Custodian, Leahy Shelter & Resource Center

About Upper Valley Haven

Since 1980, Upper Valley Haven has provided temporary shelter, food, education, problem-solving support, and related services to people experiencing poverty, housing instability, and food insecurity. Grounded in respect, kindness, dignity, accountability, hospitality, and community participation, the Haven serves as a vital community resource for individuals and families across the Upper Valley.

Position Summary

The Leahy Shelter and Resource Center Custodian is primarily responsible for maintaining the cleanliness, sanitation, safety, and orderliness of the Leahy Shelter and Resource Center. The Custodian has primary accountability for cleanliness, with limited support from Shelter and Resource Center Associates, and may also perform custodial duties at the Haven’s main campus.

This is a public-facing role with regular interaction with shelter guests and resource center clients. The Custodian helps create a welcoming environment that reflects the Haven’s mission and supports the safety and well-being of everyone who uses its buildings and grounds.

Compensation

Hourly rate: $22.00 per hour. Benefits include employer-funded health, vision, and dental insurance; disability and life insurance; and 403(b) retirement matching.

At the Haven, we invest in our team by providing outstanding benefits, cultivating a culture focused on well-being and personal and professional growth, and offering opportunities to be involved in shaping the organization.

Key Responsibilities

Perform routine custodial and basic maintenance activities throughout the facility.

Complete heavy cleaning duties, including sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, vacuuming, and shampooing or steam-cleaning carpets and rugs as needed.

Collect and dispose of trash from indoor and outdoor areas, including the smoking area and dog park.

Clean, sanitize, and restock restrooms and other shared facilities.

Dust, clean, and sanitize furniture, walls, equipment, vinyl mattresses, and pillows in sleeping areas.

Clean windows, mirrors, partitions, and other glass surfaces using appropriate cleaning products and methods.

Perform year-round outdoor work as needed, including snow removal and grounds cleanup.

Monitor and manage the inventory of cleaning supplies and communicate replenishment needs.

Use personal protective equipment, cleaning equipment, and chemicals in accordance with safety requirements and proper disposal procedures.

Identify and report needed repairs or additions to building operating systems to appropriate managers.

Provide support to the Maintenance Coordinator as needed and perform other relevant duties as assigned.

Core Competencies

Reliability, punctuality, and consistent follow-through.

Ability to build rapport with diverse individuals while maintaining strong professional boundaries.

Understanding of the effects of being unsheltered, instability, mental health conditions, and substance misuse.

Flexibility, adaptability, and commitment to teamwork.

Ability to remain calm and work effectively in stressful or crisis situations.

Commitment to maintaining spaces that support dignity, safety, hospitality, and well-being.

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift up to 40 pounds

Able to walk, stand, and bend for extended periods

Able to perform repetitive motions for long periods

Able to safely operate cleaning equipment

Able to work outdoors throughout the year

Education & Experience

High school diploma or equivalent.

Minimum of two years of experience in janitorial or professional housecleaning work.

Knowledge of standard cleaning methods and procedures.

Experience using cleaning equipment, including vacuum cleaners, floor buffers, and cleaning solutions.

Knowledge of occupational hazards, safety rules, proper use of personal protective equipment, and proper disposal of chemicals.

Work Environment/Schedule

The regular schedule is 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The anticipated workflow begins in the Resource Center from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., shifts to the Shelter at 8:00 a.m., and then focuses on the facility as a whole, once the Shelter is prepared for the evening. The person in this position must be able to work non-traditional hours, including holidays, as required.

The Leahy Shelter and Resource Center is a two-story building at 608 North Main Street in White River Junction. It includes community, kitchen, conference, office, laundry, bathroom, and sleeping areas, along with a parking lot, smoking area, and dog park. Additional custodial work may be assigned at the Haven’s main campus, approximately one mile away.

Our Commitment to Employees

Upper Valley Haven (UVH) is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse workplace environment that is welcoming and safe for all. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

We are committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status. UVH follows all EEOC guidance and federal and state laws regarding background screening.