Environmental Service Specialist I
Boston
Wednesday, 03 June 2026
The Erich Lindemann Inn Shelter is seeking motivated, dependable, and detail-oriented applicants for the role of Environmental Service Specialist I Full-Time, 40 hours per week 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Every other weekend and rotating holidays.. This opportunity is intended for applicants who are interested in supporting the daily cleaning, sanitation, and environmental service needs of the shelter. The selected candidate will be responsible for maintaining a clean, safe, sanitary, and respectful environment for shelter guests, staff, and visitors. The ideal candidate must be reliable, flexible, and able to perform cleaning duties in a shelter setting where daily assignments may change based on operational needs. Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive): - Perform routine and detailed cleaning in assigned areas of the Erich Lindemann Inn Shelter. - Clean guest/resident rooms, common areas, staff areas, offices, hallways, restrooms, shower rooms, and break rooms. - Sweep, mop, dry mop, scrub, wax, buff, and polish floors as assigned. - Clean and disinfect walls, doors, fixtures, windows, sinks, toilets, showers, furniture, and other surfaces. - Remove trash, recycling, and other waste from assigned areas and transport materials to designated disposal locations. - Restock paper products, soap, liners, and other janitorial supplies as needed. - Collect soiled linens and distribute clean linens or related items when required. - Operate housekeeping equipment safely, including floor machines and other cleaning tools. - Move furniture, equipment, or supplies as needed for cleaning or operational purposes. - Respond promptly to urgent cleaning needs, spills, odors, sanitation concerns, and other facility-related issues. - Assist with snow removal from stairs, entrances, walkways, and other assigned exterior areas when needed. - Inspect assigned areas to ensure cleaning tasks are completed properly and according to shelter expectations. - Communicate professionally with shelter staff, supervisors, and program leadership regarding cleaning needs or concerns. - Support a respectful, safe, and sanitary environment for all shelter guests and staff. - Perform other related duties as assigned. Required Qualifications - Current employee eligible to apply for an internal posting. - Ability to perform manual cleaning tasks. - Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, push, pull, and perform repetitive cleaning duties throughout the shift. - Knowledge of basic cleaning methods, materials, equipment, and supplies used in custodial or housekeeping work. - Ability to follow verbal and written instructions. - Ability to work independently and as part of a team. - Ability to remain flexible when assignments change. - Strong attendance, punctuality, and professionalism. - Respectful and appropriate communication with shelter guests, staff, and visitors. Preferred Qualifications - Previous custodial, housekeeping, shelter, healthcare, or institutional cleaning experience. - Experience working in a shelter, residential program, behavioral health setting, or human services environment. - Familiarity with infection control, sanitation, and safety practices. - Bilingual or multilingual ability is preferred given the population served. - Ability to respond calmly and professionally in a busy shelter environment. Work Environment. The Erich Lindemann Inn Shelter serves individuals who may be experiencing homelessness, behavioral health challenges, medical concerns, or other complex life circumstances. Staff assigned to this environment must demonstrate patience, professionalism, compassion, and respect at all times. Environmental Services staff are expected to help maintain a clean and dignified space where guests, staff, and visitors feel safe and supported. DMH Mission Statement:The Department of Mental Health assures and provides access to services and supports to meet the mental health needs of individuals of all ages, enabling them to live, work and participate in their communities. The Department establishes standards to ensure effective and culturally competent care to promote recovery. The Department sets policy, promotes self-determination, protects human rights and supports mental health training and research.