We appreciate your interest in employment with Kalama School District. All applications are considered and reviewed. The most qualified and competitive applicant(s) that possess directly related experience and expertise, training, and education may be invited to participate in the interview/selection process. As part of the selection process, the District conducts confidential reference checks to include former and present employers and also requires a criminal background investigation. Unfortunately, due to the number of applications received, not all applicants will receive an interview.

All district employees are encouraged to review their personnel file periodically to ensure that their file includes current and relevant documentation that supports their education, experience, training, etc., as it relates to qualifications described on job postings.

Kalama School District

Substitute Custodian (Classified)

Location: Kalama School District, Kalama, Washington

Start Date: On Call - As Needed

Schedule: Day shift - 8:00am - 5:30pm; Evening Shift 3:30pm - 12:00am (hours may vary to fit schedules)

Salary: Per 2025�2026 Classified Salary Schedule

Benefits: Not eligible for benefits

Retirement: Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) eligible

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Overview

Kalama School District is accepting applications for a Custodian Substitute. Under the general supervision of the Director of Operations and/or Building Principal, this position is responsible for performing routine and specialized cleaning and maintenance to ensure a sanitary, safe, and orderly environment for students, staff, and the community.

The successful candidate will maintain interior and exterior facilities, operate industrial custodial equipment, ensure building security, and support district operations through room setups and minor repairs.

Essential Functions

• Facility Maintenance: Perform routine cleaning of classrooms, offices, restrooms, hallways, cafeterias, and gymnasiums; maintain building entrances and grounds, including litter removal and seasonal upkeep.
• Equipment Operation: Safely operate and maintain custodial equipment such as floor scrubbers, carpet extractors, buffers, and vacuums in accordance with district safety guidelines.
• Chemical Safety: Ensure proper use, labeling, and storage of cleaning chemicals in compliance with District protocols, OSHA, and WISHA regulations.
• Security & Safety: Secure buildings and grounds by locking doors, setting alarms, and monitoring for unauthorized access; follow bloodborne pathogen protocols and PPE requirements.
• Operational Support: Arrange and reset furniture for meetings and special events; assist maintenance staff with seasonal tasks like snow removal and de-icing.
• Reporting & Documentation: Monitor building conditions daily; report maintenance needs, safety hazards, and supply shortages to the Director of Operations.
• Minor Repairs: Perform basic repairs such as tightening hardware, adjusting furniture, and clearing minor drain blockages.
• Inventory Management: Assist in tracking custodial supplies and equipment to ensure adequate stock levels are maintained.
• Collaboration: Meet with building leadership to provide updates on custodial priorities; work effectively with service companies and contractors.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of standard cleaning techniques, materials, and specialized power equipment.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions and process paperwork accurately.
• Strong organizational and time management skills to handle shifting priorities.
• Ability to establish cooperative working relationships with a diverse group of students and staff.
• Basic mathematical skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division).
• Ability to read and interpret labels, MSDS/SDS sheets, and safety manuals.

Professional Responsibilities

• Serve as a positive representative of the district to students and the community.
• Follow all District policies, including Policy 5161: Civility in the Workplace.
• Maintain required training (e.g., Hazardous Materials, Bloodborne Pathogens).
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance.

Required Qualifications

• 18 years of age
• High School Diploma, Vocational School Diploma, or equivalent education.
• Valid Motor Vehicle Operator's License.
• Demonstrated ability to perform the physical requirements of the position.
• Working knowledge of custodial practices
• Ability to work around children and present a positive role model
• Ability to effectively communicate with students, staff and visitors to the district
• Previous experience in building and cleaning maintenance preferred
• Previous experience with brooms, mops, floor cleaning and waxing machines, vacuum cleaners, and hand tools preferred
• Prompt and regular attendance

Preferred Qualifications

• One year of job related experience working with students in an educational setting preferred
• Previous successful experience in building management or a custodial capacity.
• Knowledge of school district safety procedures and chemical hygiene programs.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Physical Effort: Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, climbing, bending and pulling; ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Environment: Works in standard school environments and outdoors in inclement weather conditions.
• Hazards: Potential exposure to cleaning chemicals, solvents, contaminated trash, and infectious diseases.
• Travel: Frequent travel between school sites or the Central Office may be required.

Additional Information

This description is illustrative and not intended to be all-inclusive. Duties and responsibilities may be assigned or modified by administration as needed.

If you are hired for this position, you will be required to complete a background check, unless you have completed the background check in the past two years, and it is on file with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).