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Substitute Custodian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Type: Substitute Positions/Substitute Custodian Date Posted: 7/17/2026 Location: Sandusky Board of Education Date Available: 26/27 SY Closing Date: Until Filled Sandusky City Schools ...

Substitute Custodian

Aurora, IL · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Position Type: Substitute/Substitute Custodian Date Posted: 7/29/2026 Location: Buildings and Grounds Center Date Available: TBD Closing Date: Until filled Attachment(s): * Posting BGC Substitute ...

Substitute Custodian

NJ · On-site

$15.92/hr

Substitute/Custodian Date Posted: 7/24/2026 Location: District Date Available: 2026/2027 School Year Closing Date: 06/30/2027 Job Title: Substitute Custodian Requirements: Must have physical ability ...

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Substitute Custodian information

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$17

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How much do substitute custodian jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for substitute custodian in the United States is $17.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substitute custodian?

To thrive as a Substitute Custodian, you need basic knowledge of cleaning procedures, building maintenance, and safe handling of cleaning chemicals, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with janitorial equipment such as floor buffers, vacuums, and sanitation supplies is typically required. Reliability, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for students and staff, even in the absence of regular custodial staff.

What is the difference between Substitute Custodian vs Custodian?

AspectSubstitute CustodianCustodian
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; sometimes certifications in cleaning or safetyHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentOn-call, temporary, or as-needed basis; various school or facility settingsFull-time, permanent employment in schools, offices, or facilities
Employer UsageUsed when regular custodians are absent or for short-term needsRegular staff responsible for daily cleaning and maintenance

The main difference between a Substitute Custodian and a Custodian is that the Substitute Custodian works on an as-needed, temporary basis, filling in for absent custodians, while the Custodian holds a permanent position responsible for daily cleaning and maintenance tasks. Both roles typically require similar credentials and work in similar environments, but their employment status and job stability differ.

What are some common challenges faced by substitute custodians and how can they prepare for them?

Substitute custodians often face the challenge of quickly adapting to new environments and routines, as each school or facility may have different cleaning protocols and expectations. They may need to familiarize themselves with the layout and specific needs of each site on short notice. Effective communication with permanent custodial staff and administrators is key to understanding priorities and addressing any urgent issues. Staying organized and being proactive in asking questions can help substitute custodians perform their duties efficiently and build positive relationships for future assignments.

What is a substitute custodian?

Substitute custodians are individuals who temporarily fill in for regular custodians in schools, office buildings, or other facilities when the regular staff is unavailable due to illness, vacation, or other reasons. Their main responsibilities include cleaning, sanitizing, and maintaining the building to ensure a safe and orderly environment. Substitute custodians may work on an on-call or as-needed basis and must be able to quickly adapt to different settings and routines. They often perform tasks such as sweeping, mopping, emptying trash, and restocking supplies. This role is essential for maintaining cleanliness and safety when regular custodial staff are absent.
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What cities are hiring for Substitute Custodian jobs?

Cities with the most Substitute Custodian job openings:

What states have the most Substitute Custodian jobs?

States with the most job openings for Substitute Custodian jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Substitute Custodian jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Substitute Custodian jobs are:

Infographic showing various Substitute Custodian job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,564 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Substitute Custodian

Kirkwood School District

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$17.60/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Kirkwood School District rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

124th of 631 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Position Type:
Substitute Positions/Substitute Custodian
Date Posted:
2/13/2026
Location:
Buildings and Grounds (B&G)
Substitute Custodian - Support
The Kirkwood School District is hiring sub custodians to support our buildings.
Substitute Custodians are on call for high volume work periods and absences/vacations of regular employees.
Pay starts at $17.60 per hour, dependent on relevant experience.
Kirkwood School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or sex, including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity and other characteristics protected by law.
This information is subject to change.
Attachment(s):
  • Custodial Substitute 2025.pdf

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