Custodian

The South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) owns and operates the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF). The Custodian is responsible for performing a variety of custodial and light maintenance duties to ensure a clean, orderly, and safe environment. This role involves cleaning buildings, removing debris, and maintaining the overall condition of assigned areas.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

The following reflects SDSTA’s definition of essential functions for this position and does not restrict other tasks that may be assigned. SDSTA retains the right to re-evaluate the duties of the position when considering a reasonable accommodation or at other appropriate times. The essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following:

Custodial & Maintenance

• Perform heavy cleaning tasks such as sweeping, vacuuming, buffing floors, shampooing rugs, washing windows, walls, and glass, and emptying trash receptacles.
• Remove trash following established procedures.
• Clean and disinfect restrooms, locker rooms, and other surfaces touched frequently.
• Restock supplies as necessary.
• Clean spills and other hazards with appropriate materials and/or equipment
• Conduct light maintenance in and around the facility.
• Respond to and report emergency custodial situations.

Other Essential Functions

• Maintain inventory and submit supply requests; test and evaluate new supplies and equipment.
• Operate power equipment such as forklifts, carpet extractors, pressure washers, hand tools, and facility vehicles.
• Perform minor groundskeeping duties, including clearing snow and debris from sidewalks.
• Monitor building security and safety by locking doors after hours and ensuring proper appliance use.
• Maintains consistent and reliable attendance.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.

Certifications and Licenses

• N/A.

Experience

• One year of custodial experience preferred.

Competencies, Knowledge and Skills

• Knowledge of proper cleaning methods and maintenance techniques.
• Familiarity with chemical safety regulations and handling hazardous materials.
• Ability to interact courteously with a diverse population.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to complete tasks accurately and efficiently.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Adaptability to changing priorities and work conditions.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Decision-making skills for assessing situations and choosing appropriate actions.
• Understanding and compliance with SURF's safety programs.

Working Conditions

The working conditions described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. When applicable and appropriate, consideration will be given to reasonable accommodations.

• Work may be performed in both surface and underground environments.
• Work is usually performed indoors, but may include limited outdoors tasks.
• Exposure to dirty or unpleasant conditions, cleaning chemicals, heights, confined spaces, dust, and varying temperatures.
• Noise levels vary from quiet (administrative spaces) to moderate/loud (operational areas), requiring hearing protection.
• Compliance with SDSTA’s safety regulations and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory.
• Expected to uphold SDSTA’s core values: Safety Focused, Care for Others, Professionalism, and Teamwork

Mental and Physical Demands

• Perform work under general supervision.
• Handle moderately complex issues and problem-solving.
• Ability to understand and follow directions.
• Exhibit physical stamina to perform duties, including:
• Lifting/moving objects up to 50 lbs. unassisted.
• Walking long distances, standing for extended periods, and frequent bending.
• Working from ladders, scaffolding, and confined spaces.
• Operating heavy equipment, hand tools, and power tools.
• Working shifts, weekends, holidays, and callouts as scheduled.

Job Information

Supervisory Duties: No

Direct Reports: N/A.

Work Arrangements: On-Site

Hours: Shift Work

Travel Required: 0%

Mission/Vision/Core Values

Mission: We advance world-class science and inspire learning across generations.

Vision: The world’s preferred location for underground science and education.

Core Values:

• Safety Focused: We do not compromise safety or endanger the environment.
• Care for Others: We embrace and honor the fundamental value and dignity of all individuals. We listen knowing everyone has something to offer and to learn.
• Professional: What we do is important to our community and the world. We sweat the details to achieve big things. Our behavior and ethics exemplify our best.
• Team Players: We provide unmatched service. We are respectful and deliver for our customers and partners. We build trust not barriers.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

The South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) is an equal opportunity employer committed to the development of a diverse workforce. We foster a work community where every individual feels welcomed, valued, respected and heard and discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or political affiliation is prohibited.