Summary
This job is for a custodian at Western State Hospital, where you'll keep patient areas clean and safe to support mental health recovery.
It involves tasks like mopping floors, sanitizing bathrooms, and maintaining equipment in a team setting.
It's a good fit for detail-oriented people who are physically fit, reliable, and enjoy helping others in a meaningful way.
Full Job Description
DSHS WSH – Custodian 1
Are you looking for a role that is both essential and meaningful?
As a Custodian at Western State Hospital, you’ll do more than maintain cleanliness – you’ll help create a safe, respectful, and therapeutic environment for patients and staff. In a setting that serves individuals with long-term psychiatric and behavioral health needs, your work directly supports recovery and fosters hope.
As part of the Environmental Services team, you’ll collaborate with staff in the Civil Center to maintain a clean and safe space where quality care can thrive. If you take pride in your work, pay close attention to detail, and value being part of a team, this opportunity may be a great fit.
Some of what you'll do:
- Perform daily floor care, including sweeping, mopping, buffing, scrubbing, and applying finishes.
- Clean and sanitize restrooms and bathing facilities, including all fixtures and surfaces.
- Disinfect and maintain furniture such as beds, desks, tables, and seating.
- Operate, clean, and maintain custodial equipment and supplies.
- Monitor and restock custodial storage areas as needed.
- Conduct routine safety checks and report hazards.
- Maintain clean and organized custodial closets.
Who should apply?
- Applicants who are at least 18 years old and possess a valid Washington State driver’s license.
What we're looking for:
- Ability to regularly lift up to 25 lbs and occasionally up to 45 lbs, and perform physically demanding tasks such as standing, lifting, and moving equipment throughout the shift.
- Communicates clearly and respectfully with patients and colleagues, including in challenging environments.
- Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities, schedules, and team needs.
- Basic computer skills, including email and internet use.
- Uses sound professional judgment in carrying out assigned responsibilities.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Additional information:
- Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.
- Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.
- Work schedule:
- Day shift: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM, Tuesday through Saturday OR
- Swing shift: 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM, Tuesday through Saturday
About Western State Hospital
Located in Lakewood, Washington, Western State Hospital is one of the largest psychiatric hospitals in the state, providing inpatient mental health treatment for individuals with serious or long-term psychiatric conditions. Established in 1871, the hospital has a long history of serving Washington communities by offering comprehensive psychiatric care, treatment, and rehabilitation services. As part of the Department of Social and Health Services, Western State Hospital plays a vital role in helping patients stabilize, recover, and reintegrate into the community whenever possible. Our dedicated healthcare professionals work in a collaborative environment to provide compassionate, evidence-based care, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
Questions?
Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Ricky Luna at ricky.luna@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number #03003.
The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.
Additional Information
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted.
Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform the job.
This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license.
Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information.
Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810.
Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

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