Description

The South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) owns and operates the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF). The Science Custodian performs a wide variety of duties in order to provide a clean, orderly and safe environment. The Science Custodian performs custodial and light maintenance duties in and around laboratory areas at both surface and underground campuses, with an emphasis on the support of underground laboratory environments. The Science Custodian also provides logistics support, assists with inventory supplies and performs related work as required. Working with SDSTA staff and researchers, the Science Custodian meets the custodial needs of the area to help support the experimental science goals and to address housekeeping needs that ensure efficient and safe laboratory operations. In addition to regular duties, the Science Custodian assists with cleanliness elements related to special events such as tours or other public relations events. 

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:

• Performs routine and targeted cleaning throughout laboratory spaces, including interior clean spaces and approach areas. Access to certain areas may involve following special cleanliness protocols.
• Cleans and disinfects change rooms, washrooms (including portable facilities), and performs maintenance on septic systems as directed.
• Performs laundry, including collection, washing, drying, folding, sorting, and organizing.
• Performs general housekeeping, including mopping, power washing, sweeping, dusting and other cleaning as necessary.
• Collects and removes trash in laboratory spaces.
• Helps ensure laboratory cleanliness protocols are being followed.
• Uses appropriate cleaning agents for laboratory surfaces and areas in coordination with SDSTA staff and researchers.
• Orders, stocks and replenishes general laboratory consumables.
• Performs preventative maintenance in and around laboratory facilities.
• Receives and sends general supplies, materials and equipment to and from laboratory facilities.
• Assists with receiving and cleaning experiment materials and equipment at laboratory facilities as appropriate.
• Assists with handling and transportation of materials within laboratory facilities.
• Assists with cleanliness monitoring as instructed and reports on cleanliness activities.
• Documents maintenance activities.

Other Essential Functions

• Maintains consistent and reliable attendance.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Requirements

Education

• High school diploma or GED is preferred.

Certifications and Licenses

• N/A.

Experience

• One year of custodial experience is required.
• Experience interacting with researchers in a laboratory setting is preferred.

Competencies, Knowledge and Skills 

• Adaptability–Ability to effectively adjust to changing priorities and demands.
• Attention to Detail–Ability to pay careful attention to details and complete tasks in an accurate, complete and timely manner.
• Communication–Ability to communicate effectively and clearly with a wide range of audiences in both written and oral form.
• Relationship Building — Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, experiment representatives, and visitors through professional and collaborative interactions.
• Customer Service–Ability to interact courteously and demonstrate sensitivity to and respect for a diverse population.
• Decision Making–Ability to assess situations, evaluate options and choose most appropriate course of action.
• Initiative–Ability to assess situations and conditions and make suggestions for improvements.
• Organization–Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time, keep order and coordinate a variety of activities.
• Safety–Ability to learn, understand, and comply with SDSTA'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.

• This position may require working in both surface and underground environments at depths up to 5000 feet, which may include exposure to extreme conditions, work at height, confined spaces, dust, and varying temperatures.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet in most laboratory spaces, but moderately loud in other areas, and may require hearing protection.
• The company is committed to providing a safe working environment and adheres to all relevant health and safety regulations.
• Employees are expected to comply with SDSTA’s ESH Manual safety program.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety Standards protocols are mandatory.
• Act in accordance with SDSTA’s core values: Safety Focused, Care for Others, Professionalism and Being a Team Player.

Mental and Physical Demands

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions, including detailed safety protocols and procedures.
• High level of alertness to maintain compliance with safety protocols, especially in high-risk environments involving mobile industrial equipment, electricity, chemicals, pressurized systems, gases and cryogens.
• Ability to stand and walk for long periods.
• Capacity to lift and carry items up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to operate forklifts and other warehouse machinery.
• Good hand-eye coordination.
• Ability to hear warning signals, auditory signals or team communications in noisy environments.
• Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Repetitive movement of hands, arms and legs, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, pushing, wiping.
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) for extended periods.

Job Information

Supervisory Duties:  No

Direct Reports:  N/A

Work Arrangements:  On-Site

Hours:  M-F; 4:10s

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.