Custodian I, Steward Observatory

This position is based in Tucson, AZ. The Custodian I will start and end each workday at Steward Observatory on the University of Arizona campus in Tucson and will drive a university vehicle between Steward Observatory and the Kitt Peak, Mt. Bigelow and/or Mt. Lemmon sites.

Due to the remote nature of these sites (approximately 1.5 hours drive time from the main UA campus), the Custodian I is typically scheduled to work four 10-hour days per week.

Steward Observatory is both a century-old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University's oldest research units. Founded in 1918, the Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world-class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground- and space-based astronomy.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

• Cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting work and living areas at remote sites.
• This includes operating cleaning equipment, using chemicals and other cleaning products safely, and laundry (primarily bed linens and towels).
• Assists with pest control at the telescope sites including setting and emptying mouse traps and cleaning/treating areas where pests have been problematic.
• Preparing for and cleaning up after large special events including camps, public programs, and visiting school groups.
• Removing trash from the sites.
• Meeting staff at designated locations and driving a UA vehicle to and from the various sites.
• Occasionally picking up and delivering supplies to and from said locations.
• Assisting in general facilities maintenance that does not require specialized training.
• Occasionally maintaining outside walkways, steps and roof tops, shoveling snow, and trimming/pruning vegetation as needed around observatory grounds.
• Replenishing and organizing cleaning supplies and equipment; maintaining inventory levels; maintaining custodial equipment; notifying appropriate staff when supplies and equipment need to be ordered, repaired or replaced.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to
  communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally.
• Ability to use a
  computer to send/respond to email (Microsoft Outlook), complete timesheets
  (Microsoft Excel & Beebole), fill out forms, use teleconferencing software
  (Zoom) and participate in electronic training courses.
• Ability to drive
  under varying weather conditions.
• Ability to work
  independently with little supervision.
• Ability to work
  within a team.

Physical
Requirements

• Ability to lift up
  to 50 lbs.
• Ability to
  routinely climb stairs and ladders at altitude (and carry items up and down
  them).
• Ability to work
  for extended periods of time at remote sites at elevations up to 10,000 feet
  and in extreme mountain weather conditions including high winds, snow and
  thunderstorms.
• Ability to install
  snow chains and drive a 4x4 vehicle on mountain roads.
• Ability to work
  long, irregular shifts which may occasionally include weekends and holidays and
  to take occasional after-hours calls.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
• Ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.

• 2 years custodial experience with knowledge of using and maintaining cleaning equipment (floor buffer, vacuums, carpet shampooer).
• Experience in maintenance/mechanical skills (e.g., experience with basic hand tools; screwdriver, hammer, etc).
• Experience installing snow chains, driving a 4x4 vehicle on mountain roads, and/or driving under adverse conditions (snow, ice, wind, thunderstorms).
• Experience using handheld and vehicle two-way radios.