Hospital Environmental Services Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced healthcare industry, the focus on Hospital Environmental Services Workers has never been more critical.

As public health standards rise and the demand for clean, safe healthcare environments increases, so does the need for skilled individuals who can maintain, enhance, and secure our healthcare infrastructure.

But what’s truly expected from a Hospital Environmental Services Worker?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes operations of hospital environmental services,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we provide a customizable Hospital Environmental Services Worker job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Hospital Environmental Services Worker Duties and Responsibilities

Hospital Environmental Services Workers, often referred to as hospital housekeepers or custodial staff, are responsible for maintaining a safe, clean, and sanitary environment for patients, staff, and visitors.

They play a pivotal role in preventing the spread of infections.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Clean patient rooms, offices, laboratories, and other areas of the facility according to established protocols
• Empty trash cans and replace liners
• Sanitize and disinfect high-touch surfaces and equipment to control the spread of infectious diseases
• Manage linen distribution, including changing bed linens in patient rooms
• Replenish supplies such as soap, paper towels, and toilet paper
• Perform floor care duties such as vacuuming, sweeping, mopping, and polishing
• Respond to emergency clean-ups such as spills or accidents
• Assist in moving and arranging furniture and equipment as needed
• Adhere to safety protocols and procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Report maintenance issues, damaged equipment, or safety hazards to the appropriate supervisor
• Manage waste disposal, which can include hazardous materials, in accordance with regulations

 

Hospital Environmental Services Worker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Hospital Environmental Services Worker to join our team.

In this role, you will be responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of our healthcare facility to create a safe, welcoming environment for patients, staff, and visitors.

The ideal candidate has experience in a hospital or healthcare setting, a strong dedication to health and safety protocols, and the physical stamina to handle the demands of this role.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform routine cleaning tasks of patient rooms, offices, and public areas.
• Ensure all areas are safe and clean for patients, staff, and visitors.
• Dispose of waste in accordance with hospital policies and procedures.
• Handle and dispose of biohazardous waste appropriately.
• Sanitize and disinfect areas such as the operating room, emergency room, and patient rooms.
• Restock supplies in the rooms and bathrooms.
• Follow all health and safety regulations and guidelines.
• Report any maintenance issues or safety hazards to the supervisory staff immediately.
• Assist with moving and setting up medical equipment.

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a healthcare setting is preferred.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and procedures.
• Physical stamina and ability to lift heavy items and stand for extended periods of time.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work well in a team.
• High school diploma or equivalent.

 

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Employee assistance program
• Training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Hospital Environmental Services Worker
• Work Environment: Fast-paced hospital or healthcare setting. This role requires physical activities such as lifting, bending, and standing for long periods of time.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Environmental Services Supervisor or Manager.
• Salary: The salary will be determined based on candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time/Part-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Hospital Environmental Services Worker Do?

Hospital Environmental Services Workers, often also referred to as Healthcare Environmental Services Workers, play a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of healthcare facilities such as hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics.

Their primary responsibility is to ensure a safe, sanitary, and comfortable environment for patients, staff, and visitors.

This typically involves cleaning and disinfecting patient rooms, bathrooms, operating rooms, and public areas, using proper cleaning methods and protocols.

They often handle waste disposal, which can include hazardous materials that need to be discarded in a safe and compliant manner.

This can involve the handling of sharps disposal, biohazardous waste, and other medical waste.

Aside from cleaning, they may also be responsible for restocking supplies such as paper products, hand sanitizers, and PPE gear in designated areas.

In addition to these, they may perform routine inspections to ensure that the facility is kept clean and safe at all times, reporting any potential hazards or areas of concern to the relevant department.

While their role may often go unnoticed, Hospital Environmental Services Workers play a critical part in infection prevention and control, contributing significantly to the overall healthcare experience.

 

Hospital Environmental Services Worker Qualifications and Skills

A Hospital Environmental Services Worker should possess a set of skills and qualifications to effectively perform their role, such as:

• Meticulous attention to detail and organization for maintaining a clean and sanitary environment in all areas of the hospital.
• Physical stamina and strength to perform labor-intensive tasks such as lifting, pushing, and pulling various cleaning equipment and supplies.
• Understanding and adhering to health and safety regulations as well as hospital standards to ensure the well-being of patients, staff, and visitors.
• Good communication skills to interact professionally and courteously with hospital staff and patients.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team, providing support to other staff members as needed.
• Knowledge and proficiency in using various cleaning equipment, tools, and supplies.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address any cleaning or maintenance issues that may arise.
• Customer service skills to respond promptly and effectively to requests and complaints from hospital staff and patients.

 

Hospital Environmental Services Worker Experience Requirements

Hospital Environmental Services Workers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent for entry-level positions.

Prior experience in a janitorial or cleaning role can be advantageous, but is not always necessary as many hospitals provide on-the-job training.

Entry-level candidates usually start by performing basic tasks such as cleaning patient rooms, disposing of waste, and ensuring that communal areas are hygienic and presentable.

This initial experience is critical in gaining familiarity with healthcare cleaning protocols and safety regulations.

Candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience in hospital environmental services often have acquired a more comprehensive understanding of infection control procedures, hazardous waste management, and handling of medical equipment.

They may also have had exposure to department-specific cleaning needs such as those in operating rooms or radiology departments.

Those with more than 3 years of experience may be considered for supervisory roles in the environmental services department.

These individuals likely have demonstrated their understanding of state and federal health codes, leadership skills, and the ability to train and manage a team.

In addition to work experience, continuing education courses in areas like healthcare sanitation, infection control, or waste disposal may enhance career advancement opportunities.

 

Hospital Environmental Services Worker Education and Training Requirements

Hospital Environmental Services Workers, also known as hospital custodians or janitors, typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

On-the-job training is often provided, where they learn about various cleaning techniques, use of cleaning equipment, and safety procedures.

Additional certifications like the Certified Healthcare Environmental Services Professional (CHESP) or Certified Surgical Cleaning Technician (CSCT) may be advantageous in this field, though they are not generally required.

While a higher education degree isn’t necessary for this role, courses or training in fields like environmental health, sanitation, or waste management could enhance their skills and knowledge.

Some institutions may require background checks and basic health screenings due to the nature of the work environment.

The ability to understand and follow safety procedures is crucial, as is a basic understanding of hospital hygiene standards and procedures.

Continued education and training may be required to keep up-to-date with changing procedures, equipment, and safety guidelines.

 

Hospital Environmental Services Worker Salary Expectations

A Hospital Environmental Services Worker can expect to earn an average wage of around $13.50 (USD) per hour.

The earnings may vary depending on factors such as experience, the location of the hospital, and the employing entity.

 

Hospital Environmental Services Worker Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Hospital Environmental Services Worker need?

Hospital Environmental Services Workers need strong organizational and time management skills to handle the cleaning and maintenance of various areas within the hospital effectively.

They should have a keen eye for detail to ensure a clean and safe environment.

Basic knowledge of cleaning chemicals and supplies is necessary.

They should also have strong physical stamina as the job often requires extended periods of standing or moving around.

 

Do Hospital Environmental Services Workers need a degree?

No, Hospital Environmental Services Workers do not typically require a degree.

However, they must have a basic education, and some hospitals may require a high school diploma or equivalent.

Training is usually provided on the job, including safety protocols and the use of cleaning equipment and supplies.

 

What should you look for in a Hospital Environmental Services Worker resume?

An ideal Hospital Environmental Services Worker resume should show experience in a similar role, preferably within a hospital or healthcare setting.

Look for knowledge of cleaning procedures and infection control, the ability to handle heavy equipment, and familiarity with safety regulations.

Good physical condition and stamina are also important, as the job involves considerable physical activity.

 

What qualities make a good Hospital Environmental Services Worker?

A good Hospital Environmental Services Worker is diligent and detail-oriented, ensuring that all areas of the hospital are clean and safe.

They should be responsible and reliable, often working independently without supervision.

Additionally, they should be able to handle potentially stressful situations, as the job can involve cleaning areas with patients or handling hazardous materials.

 

What are the daily duties of a Hospital Environmental Services Worker?

A Hospital Environmental Services Worker’s daily duties typically include cleaning patient rooms, hallways, and public areas, emptying trash cans, and replenishing supplies like soap and toilet paper.

They may also be responsible for cleaning and disinfecting equipment, maintaining inventory of cleaning supplies, and ensuring all areas meet health and safety standards.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on the integral role of a Hospital Environmental Services Worker.

And guess what?

It’s not just about cleaning.

It’s about providing a safe, sanitary, and welcoming environment for patients and hospital staff, one task at a time.

With our comprehensive Hospital Environmental Services Worker job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make a significant move.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate guide to creating precise job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every task you perform contributes to the overall health and safety of the hospital environment.

Let’s create a healthier future. Together.

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