Drop-In Winter Relief Cleaner in Toronto, Ontario at Christie Ossington Neighborhood Centre

Job Description – Hostel Cleaner

Position Overview:

The Cleaner plays a key role in ensuring the cleanliness, safety, and upkeep of Christie Ossington Neighbourhood Centre’s (CONC) hostel and drop-in locations. In this role, you will be responsible for daily and scheduled cleaning, maintenance monitoring, supply tracking, and compliance with all relevant health and safety standards. You will work collaboratively with the shelter team, contractors, and supervisors to support a safe and welcoming environment for residents and staff.

This is a unionized position reporting to the Manager of Shelter Operations or the Drop-In Supervisor, depending on assignment.

Key Responsibilities:

- Perform thorough daily cleaning of hostel premises

- Complete weekly, monthly, and ad hoc cleaning tasks as scheduled

- Monitor property for maintenance issues and report problems promptly to the Manager

- Order, receive, and track supplies in line with agency guidelines

- Ensure proper disposal and separation of garbage, recycling, and compost

- Maintain compliance with safety and health regulations, including Fire Safety, Public Health, Hostel Standards, Ontario Building Code, W.H.M.I.S., and municipal by-laws

- Collaborate with shelter staff and supervisors to ensure program protocols are supported

- Work cooperatively with contractors, suppliers, and team members to maintain facility standards

- Orient new staff or volunteers on proper storage and use of cleaning supplies and hygiene items

- Report any interactions or concerns related to shelter residents via communication logs or staff updates

- Store supplies safely and monitor inventory to avoid shortages

- Monitor for pest or rodent activity and report findings as needed

- Support community initiatives such as the Christie-Ossington Annual Street Festival when required

- Other duties as assigned by the Manager of Shelter Operations or Director of Hostels & Housing

Qualifications and Experience:

- Sensitivity and respect for individuals experiencing homelessness or marginalization

- Strong teamwork and communication skills, with a focus on safety and cooperation

- Experience in cleaning and maintenance, ideally in a shelter or commercial environment

- Familiarity with W.H.M.I.S. and standard health/safety precautions

- Strong attention to detail and time management

- Ability to safely receive, store, and track maintenance supplies

- Capable of lifting and working in outdoor or variable conditions

- Flexible and willing to take initiative or learn new practices

- Experience maintaining a commercial or institutional facility is an asset

- Presentation of a current criminal record check