Entry Level Disaster Response Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.
Functional Title: Custodian I Job Title: Custodian I Agency: Health & Human Services Comm Department: Housekeeping Svs Posting Number: 14766 Closing Date: 06/15/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Building and Grounds Cleaning and Maintenance Salary Range: $2,571.56- $3,139.75 Pay Frequency: MonthlySalary Group: TEXAS-A-07 Shift: Day Additional Shift: Days (First) Telework: Not Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 20% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Big Spring State Hospital Job Location City: BIG SPRING Job Location Address: 1901 N HIGHWAY 87 Other Locations: Big Spring MOS Codes: 8000,8911,BM,SN
Brief Job Description:
Would you thrive in an environment where you learn and grow personally and professionally all while helping make a positive impact on people's lives? Do you appreciate being around others like yourself who are dependable, trustworthy, hard workers who believe in the value of teamwork? HSCS is dedicated to building an atmosphere where employees feel valued and supported while providing specialized care for Texans in need. HSCS is comprised of nine psychiatric hospitals, one youth residential treatment facility, and thirteen state supported living centers. The psychiatric hospitals are a hub of excellence for forensic mental health and complex psychiatric care, with all facilities accredited by The Joint Commission. They provide state-of-the-art treatment that is recovery-oriented and science-based. If providing hope and healing through compassionate, innovative, and individualized care interests you, we welcome your application for the position below.
The Custodian I performs entry-level custodial work and follows all hospital rules and policies. Work involves cleaning, disinfecting/sanitizing and caring for hospital buildings, premises, and/or hospital units. Responsible and accountable for assigned equipment and the maintenance of custodial equipment. Maintains outside areas around building, clears trash and debris. Works under close supervision, with minimal latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
This position may be eligible to earn additional pay for work performed on evenings, nights and/or weekends.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs):
Attends work on a regular basis and may be required to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
Helps maintain a clean working environment.
Cleans floors and applies finishes in accordance with established procedures and safety measures. Vacuums and uses mechanical extractor as required based on flooring.
Cleans and sanitizes restrooms and/or bathing areas and empties trash to prevent the transmission of diseases. Provides a clean and safe environment for all patients by following Environmental Services and Infection Control procedures. Replenishes supplies as needed.
Cleans floors, walls, and furniture to assist patients in maintaining a clean, attractive, safe, and sanitary environment. Removes linen, sanitizes beds, remakes beds, and empties trash.
Maintains and cleans the interior and exterior of assigned buildings and empties trash. Reports needed repairs.
Cleans nurse's stations and isolation areas to prevent transmission of communicable diseases.
Helps individuals maintain optimal health and provides a safe environment for self, patients-served and others.
Completes documentation in an accurate and timely manner.
Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
Knowledge of cleaning methods, standards, and sanitation regulations
Skills in operating environmental services cleaning equipment preferred.
Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
Ability to lift 50 pounds.
Ability to stand/walk on hard floors for extended period.
Ability to work harmoniously and productively with co-workers and patients.
Ability to work irregular hours.
Ability to work safely with chemicals.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
None
Initial Screening Criteria:
Three (3) months' work experience required.
Experience working with cleaning chemicals and tools preferred.
Additional Information:
Applicants must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks including the Client Abuse/Neglect Reporting System (CANRS), Nurse Aid, Medication Aide and Employee Misconduct, List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE). Males between the ages of 18-25 must be registered with the Selective Service.
All applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for employment at a state-operated facility. Waco Center for Youth applicants must be 21 years of age.
Flexibility in work hours may be required for this position. The position may be required to work overtime and/or extended hours.
Compliance with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital operating procedures related to immunizations is required. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthcare workers are considered to be at significant risk for acquiring or transmitting hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (chicken pox), tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and influenza. All these diseases are vaccine preventable. As a result, state hospital policy requires employees be vaccinated according to their level of contact with individuals. In the event you choose to not be immunized for the influenza virus, you may be required to wear a mask and take other protective measures.
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Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.
ADA Accommodations:
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.
Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:
Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form
Telework Disclaimer:
This position may be eligible for telework. Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.