Janitor in East Palo Alto, California at Peninsula Family Service

About Us Peninsula Family Service (PFS) is a nonprofit organization that provides children, families, and older adults with the support and tools they need to realize their full potential. As one of the largest providers of infant, toddler, and preschool programs in the region, PFS also delivers services in financial empowerment, employment, and older adult support — ensuring that people at every stage of life have access to opportunities to thrive. Established in 1950, PFS has been a trusted community partner for over 75 years, dedicated to fostering stability, resilience, and well-being for the individuals and families it serves. At PFS, our values guide how we serve our community and work together as a team. We expect every team member to demonstrate Ownership, Proactive Engagement, and a commitment to Continuous Learning and Adaptability. These values are grounded in a shared dedication to community, service, and collaborative teamwork.

Job Summary

The Janitor is responsible for maintaining a clean, safe, healthy, and welcoming environment in all program facilities, including classrooms, bathrooms, offices, kitchen, and playgrounds for our children, staff, and visitors. This position ensures that the physical setting supports a high-quality early childhood service and meets all federal, state, and local health, safety and licensing standards.

REPORT TO: Site Manager

JOB CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

•Daily Cleaning & Sanitation: Thoroughly clean and disinfect classrooms, restrooms, diaper-changing stations, and common areas (including dusting of furniture and fixtures) using center-approved, child-safe cleaning products.

•Floor Care: Sweep, vacuum, and mop all floors daily. Immediately clean up spills and address high-traffic areas to prevent slips and falls.

•Waste Management: Empty all trash and recycling bins, sanitize the receptacles, and dispose of waste properly.

•Supply Management: Monitor inventory and restock supplies in restrooms and kitchens (e.g., paper towels, soap, toilet paper).

•Deep Cleaning: Perform scheduled deep cleaning tasks during center closures (e.g., sanitizing toys, washing windows, shampooing rugs)

•Security & Safety: Ensure all exterior doors, gates, and storage closets are locked. Report any maintenance hazards or necessary repairs to center management immediately.

•Perform other duties as assigned by manager or supervisory staff.

Qualifications

Experience

•Previous commercial cleaning or janitorial experience, preferably in a childcare setting, daycare, or school.

•Safety Knowledge: Strong understanding of OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards, bloodborne pathogens, and early learning sanitation guidelines (e.g., adhering to California Department of Social Services or local licensing regulations).

Special Requirements

Physical Demands & Work Environment

•Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

•Ability to bend, stoop, reach, stretch, and lift/carry up to 50 pounds regularly.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

•Before the first day of employment, candidates must obtain and maintain all required background clearances, including California Department of Justice (DOJ) fingerprint clearance, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) fingerprint clearance, and a Child Abuse Central Index check, as required by state childcare licensing. Candidates must also complete required health screening, including a tuberculosis test, for childcare workers.

•Verification to legally work in the United States and updated as required.