Custodian - Des Moines Prep

Custodian | Des Moines Prep  

About Cedar Rapids Prep
Des Moines Prep (www.desmoinesprep.org)  is a new public charter high school opening in August 2025 to serve 150 ninth-grade students in its inaugural class. The school will add an additional grade level each year, building out a full comprehensive high school that offers academic excellence, a wide array of extracurriculars, and hyper-focused college and career preparation. As one of the flagship schools for Opportunity Education (www.opportunityeducation.org), Des Moines Prep aims to set a model for schools nationwide.

About the Role: School Custodian

Under the direct supervision of the school Principal, the Custodian is responsible for maintaining a clean, safe, and orderly environment for students, staff, and visitors. This role plays a critical part in ensuring that all areas of the school—including classrooms, hallways, restrooms, offices, and common spaces—are regularly cleaned and maintained to support a healthy and welcoming campus. The Custodian will perform routine cleaning tasks, minor maintenance, and assist with event setup or special projects as needed. The ideal candidate is dependable, detail-oriented, and takes pride in contributing to the overall learning environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Collaborate with fellow staff to foster a welcoming and well-maintained school environment.
• Build positive relationships with students and contribute to a supportive school community.
• Prioritize preventative maintenance and consistently follow safety protocols to ensure a secure campus.
• Monitor the condition of school facilities and promptly report or address any safety hazards or maintenance concerns.
• Encourage student responsibility by modeling and supporting stewardship of shared spaces.
• Conduct regular campus walkthroughs to maintain cleanliness and remove litter/debris.
• Manage and dispose of trash properly, including transferring waste to designated dumpsters and maintaining cleanliness around waste areas.
• Track custodial supply inventory and promptly communicate supply needs to supervisors.
• Complete tasks as outlined by school leadership, which may include:
• Cleaning windows, handrails, and surfaces
• Sweeping, mopping, and dusting floors
• Midday bathroom cleaning and trash removal
• Maintaining clean and safe workspaces
• Performing minor repairs and paint touch-ups
• Shoveling snow and applying salt as needed
• Provide cafeteria support during meal service or as directed by school leaders.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support school operations and student well-being.

Educational Requirements

• High School Diploma or Equivalent Preferred

Ideal Candidate Skills and Experiences

• A minimum of one year of custodial experience
• Meet all physical demands of the position
• Able to take direction
• Work quickly and efficiently
• Experience working with middle school youth or in a school setting strongly preferred
• Ability to think outside the box and do whatever it takes to get the job done
• Willingness to accept, implement, and grow from constructive feedback
• A strong commitment and high expectations for cleanliness and organization

Physical Requirements

• Ability to use full range of motion to perform routine cleaning (bend, scoop, squat, kneel)  
• Ability to climbing stairs or ladders  access to all levels
• Ability to move equipment, appliances, open and close doors, etc.
• Ability to reach above shoulders to stock and remove equipment, place trash in dumpsters, etc. 
• Ability to safely and successfully handle tools with cleaning 
• Ability to lift and carry (supplies, trash receptacles, ladders, etc.) of varying weights

Application Process

Please apply online here. 

Compensation

Salary is currently budgeted in a range competitive with local district expectations. This role is eligible for IPERS (Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System) and a full suite of medical, dental, vision, and other benefits.

Statement of Non-Discrimination

Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.