Custodial Director - Higher Education

The Custodial Director is responsible for providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and client relationship management for custodial services across a higher education campus. This role oversees all aspects of cleaning operations, sanitation programs, staffing, budget management, regulatory compliance, sustainability initiatives, and customer satisfaction. The Custodial Director ensures that academic buildings, residence halls, student centers, athletic facilities, administrative offices, and other campus locations are maintained to the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and appearance.

The ideal candidate is a proven leader with experience managing large-scale custodial operations, developing high-performing teams, and building strong partnerships with university stakeholders.

Operational Leadership

• Direct and manage all custodial operations across the university campus.
• Develop and implement cleaning standards, operational procedures, and quality assurance programs.
• Ensure consistent service delivery across academic, administrative, residential, athletic, and special-use facilities.
• Establish performance metrics and continuously improve operational efficiency and service outcomes.
• Lead planning and execution of deep cleaning projects, campus events, move-in/move-out periods, and emergency response activities.

Team Management

• Recruit, hire, train, coach, and develop custodial management and frontline staff.
• Foster a culture of safety, accountability, engagement, and customer service.
• Manage scheduling, labor allocation, productivity standards, and workforce planning.
• Conduct performance evaluations and develop succession plans for key roles.
• Support employee retention and recognition initiatives.

Client & Campus Relations

• Serve as the primary custodial services liaison for university leadership, facilities management, housing, athletics, and other campus departments.
• Conduct regular client meetings to review service levels, address concerns, and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Respond promptly and professionally to escalated service requests and operational issues.
• Build strong relationships that support campus-wide goals and initiatives.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage annual operating budgets.
• Monitor labor, supplies, equipment, and operational expenses.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining service quality.
• Ensure accurate reporting, forecasting, and financial accountability.

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, environmental standards, university policies, and company procedures.
• Lead safety training programs and enforce safe work practices.
• Oversee infection prevention protocols, chemical handling procedures, and custodial equipment safety.
• Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions as necessary.

Sustainability & Innovation

• Promote sustainable cleaning practices and environmentally responsible solutions.
• Support campus sustainability objectives through green cleaning programs and waste reduction initiatives.
• Evaluate emerging technologies, equipment, and processes to improve efficiency and service delivery.

Quality Assurance

• Conduct routine inspections and audits of custodial services.
• Monitor key performance indicators and develop corrective action plans when needed.
• Ensure facilities consistently meet cleanliness, appearance, and sanitation standards.

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Facilities Management, Hospitality Management, Operations Management, or related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• 5+ years of progressive custodial, environmental services, facilities, or housekeeping management experience.
• 3+ years of leadership experience managing multiple supervisors and large employee populations.
• Experience managing budgets, labor planning, and operational performance metrics.
• Strong customer service and client relationship management skills.
• Working knowledge of cleaning methods, equipment, chemicals, and sanitation standards.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and workforce management systems.