Maintenance Worker

Synagogue Custodian / Maintenance Worker

Congregation Shir Shalom

Position Summary

Congregation Shir Shalom is seeking a dependable, responsible, and detail-oriented Custodian/Maintenance Worker to maintain the cleanliness, safety, appearance, and overall operation of the synagogue building and grounds. This position helps ensure that the facility is properly prepared for worship services, religious school, meetings, lifecycle events, and other synagogue programs.

The ideal candidate will take pride in maintaining a welcoming environment and will demonstrate respect for Jewish traditions, religious observances, congregants, staff, and guests.

Primary Responsibilities

• Clean and maintain the sanctuary, social hall, classrooms, offices, kitchen, restrooms, hallways, entrances, and other areas.
• Vacuum, sweep, mop, dust, sanitize surfaces, and empty trash and recycling containers.
• Clean and restock restrooms with soap, paper products, and other supplies.
• Set up and break down tables, chairs, podiums, and other equipment for services, meetings, classes, celebrations, and special events.
• Prepare the building before Shabbat, High Holiday, festival, lifecycle, and other synagogue services.
• Assist with cleanup following services, programs, and events.
• Monitor the building for maintenance concerns, safety hazards, plumbing problems, electrical issues, roof leaks, or needed repairs.
• Perform minor repairs and routine maintenance within the employee’s ability and promptly report larger concerns.
• Replace lightbulbs, change filters, adjust thermostats, and perform other basic building-maintenance tasks.
• Maintain the synagogue’s exterior areas, including entrances, sidewalks, parking areas, and trash-removal locations.
• Assist with snow and ice removal and apply salt to walkways and entrances when necessary.
• Receive deliveries and properly store custodial and maintenance supplies.
• Maintain an inventory of cleaning products, paper goods, and other supplies, and notify the Office Manager when additional materials are needed.
• Secure doors and windows and ensure that lights, appliances, and equipment are turned off when closing the building.
• Follow all security, fire-safety, emergency, and building-access procedures.
• Coordinate with synagogue staff, clergy, vendors, contractors, and event personnel as needed.
• Handle synagogue property, furnishings, prayer books, ritual items, and religious spaces carefully and respectfully.
• Perform other reasonable custodial or maintenance duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Previous custodial, janitorial, building-maintenance, or related experience is preferred.
• Dependable, punctual, trustworthy, and able to work with limited supervision.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Basic knowledge of cleaning products, equipment, and workplace safety practices.
• Ability to recognize and report building, maintenance, and safety concerns.
• Courteous and respectful when interacting with clergy, staff, congregants, children, vendors, and visitors.
• Willingness to learn and respect synagogue customs and religious practices.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise appropriate judgment.
• A valid driver’s license is preferred.

Physical Requirements

The employee must be able to perform the essential duties of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, including:

• Standing and walking for extended periods.
• Bending, reaching, kneeling, climbing stairs, and using a step ladder safely.
• Moving tables, chairs, supplies, and equipment.
• Lifting and carrying up to 40 pounds.
• Using standard cleaning tools and maintenance equipment.
• Working indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Work Schedule

This position requires a flexible schedule based on synagogue needs. Hours may include weekdays, evenings, weekends, Jewish holidays, and special events. Additional hours may be required before and after major services or programs and during inclement weather.

Supervision

The Custodian/Maintenance Worker reports to the Office Manager or another individual designated by the synagogue’s leadership.

Employment Statement

Congregation Shir Shalom is an equal-opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without unlawful discrimination and in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Reasonable accommodations will be considered for qualified individuals with disabilities.