Facilities

Custodial Supervisor job description

Hire a Custodial Supervisor to manage facility maintenance, sanitation standards, and building operations. Improve workplace hygiene and infrastructure today.

Published October 15, 2025Updated May 16, 20266519 likes

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Job brief

We are seeking a diligent Custodial Supervisor to lead our janitorial operations and maintain the highest standards of cleanliness across our campus. In this role, you will manage a dedicated team, oversee supply procurement, and implement modern sanitation procedures that optimize facility performance and employee well-being. If you are an experienced leader who values operational efficiency, attention to detail, and creating a top-tier workplace environment, we invite you to join our facilities management department. You will play a vital role in protecting our physical assets and ensuring a safe, welcoming space for all our staff and visitors.

Key highlights

Direct and supervise the daily activities of custodial staff to ensure high-quality janitorial services across all facility zones.
Implement standardized cleaning protocols and green-cleaning initiatives to comply with OSHA safety regulations and environmental health standards.
Manage the procurement and inventory levels of cleaning supplies, chemicals, and janitorial equipment to optimize operational expenses.
Conduct recurring performance audits and facility walkthroughs to ensure adherence to sanitation metrics and building maintenance standards.

What is a Custodial Supervisor?

A Custodial Supervisor is a specialized facilities management professional who oversees cleaning operations, sanitation protocols, and the maintenance of building aesthetics. By directing custodial staff and managing complex janitorial workflows, a Custodial Supervisor ensures that professional environments remain safe, hygienic, and compliant with health codes. Their expertise in facility management methodologies, such as OSHA safety standards and green cleaning practices, is critical to maintaining high-functioning, healthy workplace infrastructure.

What does a Custodial Supervisor do?

A Custodial Supervisor manages daily building operations, including the scheduling of deep-cleaning projects, inventory tracking of cleaning supplies, and equipment maintenance for floor scrubbers and pressure washers. They provide hands-on leadership to cleaning crews, ensuring consistent quality control through regular site inspections and performance audits. Furthermore, the Custodial Supervisor serves as a bridge between facilities management and building occupants, quickly addressing maintenance requests and ensuring that all environmental services meet rigorous organizational health and safety benchmarks.

Key responsibilities

Direct and supervise the daily activities of custodial staff to ensure high-quality janitorial services across all facility zones.
Implement standardized cleaning protocols and green-cleaning initiatives to comply with OSHA safety regulations and environmental health standards.
Manage the procurement and inventory levels of cleaning supplies, chemicals, and janitorial equipment to optimize operational expenses.
Conduct recurring performance audits and facility walkthroughs to ensure adherence to sanitation metrics and building maintenance standards.
Coordinate deep-cleaning schedules for carpet extraction, floor stripping, waxing, and window treatments using industrial-grade machinery.
Maintain comprehensive logs for equipment maintenance, hazardous chemical usage (SDS compliance), and daily staff work orders.
Collaborate with facilities maintenance teams to report infrastructure repairs, such as plumbing leaks, lighting outages, or HVAC ventilation issues.
Facilitate ongoing training sessions for custodial personnel regarding proper chemical handling, equipment operation, and workplace safety procedures.

Requirements and skills

3+ years of experience in custodial management, janitorial supervision, or facilities maintenance operations.
Proficiency in managing cleaning workflows and industrial equipment, including floor buffers, auto-scrubbers, and pressure washers.
Deep understanding of OSHA standards, bloodborne pathogen protocols, and proper handling of Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
Strong ability to manage multi-shift schedules, staff assignments, and labor allocation for large-scale facility operations.
Certification in ISSA Cleaning Management Institute (CMI) or equivalent custodial management professional credentials preferred.
Experience using facilities management software or digital work-order systems to track maintenance requests and inventory status.
Demonstrated capability to lead, motivate, and mentor a diverse team of custodial staff to achieve operational objectives.
High school diploma or GED required; Associate degree in Facilities Management or a related field is a strong advantage.

FAQs

What does a Custodial Supervisor do on a daily basis?

A Custodial Supervisor manages the day-to-day cleaning operations, which includes assigning tasks to custodial staff, inspecting areas for cleanliness, and ensuring that all janitorial equipment is functioning correctly. They are responsible for monitoring inventory levels of cleaning chemicals and supplies, as well as handling any immediate facility maintenance issues that arise. Throughout the day, they balance administrative duties—such as logging work orders and reviewing safety compliance—with active floor supervision to ensure quality control.

What are the essential skills for a Custodial Supervisor?

The most important skills for a Custodial Supervisor include deep knowledge of cleaning chemicals and sanitation equipment, a strong understanding of OSHA safety protocols, and the ability to effectively lead a team. Proficiency in managing inventory and budgets is vital for cost-efficient facility management. Additionally, they must possess excellent troubleshooting skills to identify facility defects and strong organizational skills to coordinate complex maintenance schedules.

How does a Custodial Supervisor contribute to facilities management?

A Custodial Supervisor is essential to facilities management because they preserve the longevity of physical building assets through consistent care and sanitation. By preventing the accumulation of dirt, grime, and environmental hazards, they reduce the need for costly deep repairs and replacements. They also ensure that the facility remains compliant with local health codes, which directly impacts the safety and productivity of everyone within the building.

Do I need specific certifications to become a Custodial Supervisor?

While not always mandatory, certifications such as the ISSA Cleaning Management Institute (CMI) certification significantly boost a candidate’s profile for a Custodial Supervisor role. Having a strong working knowledge of OSHA regulations and specialized training in hazardous materials or infection control is highly valued by employers. A degree or certificate in Facilities Management can also provide the administrative foundation needed to manage large-scale building operations effectively.