Environmental Services / Custodial Manager 1 - job 2 of 4

The Environmental Services / Custodial Manager 1 at Sodexo plays a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and safety of facilities at the University at Buffalo. Responsibilities include managing a team of over 15 employees, overseeing waste management, ensuring a safe work environment, and operating necessary custodial equipment. You'll also engage with customers to meet their needs, coordinate event setups, and consistently uphold quality standards with a focus on excellent service.

To qualify for the Environmental Services / Custodial Manager 1 role at Sodexo, candidates should possess a High School Diploma or GED and relevant experience in Environmental Services, housekeeping, or custodial maintenance. Strong communication skills, the ability to lead and motivate a team, and familiarity with custodial equipment are essential. A commitment to customer satisfaction and organizational skills are also crucial for this position.

As an Environmental Services / Custodial Manager 1 at Sodexo, you can expect a day shift schedule, predominantly from Monday to Friday, though occasional weekends and holidays may be required. This structured schedule allows you to maintain a work-life balance while fulfilling your managerial duties on campus.

Sodexo provides a comprehensive benefits package for the Environmental Services / Custodial Manager 1 role, which may include medical, dental, and vision care, wellness programs, a 401(k) plan with matching contributions, paid time off, and company holidays. They also offer career growth opportunities and tuition reimbursement, ensuring that employees are valued and supported in their professional development.

Sodexo is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace for the Environmental Services / Custodial Manager 1 position. The company values every employee's contributions, ensuring respect and recognition for individuals regardless of their background. This commitment enhances teamwork and creates a positive environment where all employees feel valued and empowered to express their ideas and opinions.

When answering this question, focus on specific experiences you’ve had in managing staff, such as your leadership style, how you motivate team members, and any successful projects you led. Provide examples that highlight your ability to foster teamwork and improve employee satisfaction, which are crucial for an Environmental Services / Custodial Manager 1 at Sodexo.

In your response, emphasize the importance of safety protocols and training. Discuss how you would implement safety measures, conduct regular inspections, and provide ongoing education for your team on safe practices. Highlighting a proactive approach to safety management will resonate well in an interview for this position.

Discuss methods such as gathering feedback from customers, conducting training sessions for staff, and incorporating regular quality assessments. Express your commitment to continuous improvement and how implementing these strategies can elevate the custodial services at the University at Buffalo.

Explain your approach to conflict resolution by describing how you assess situations impartially and facilitate open communication between team members. Provide an example of a past conflict and how you successfully resolved it, showcasing your leadership and mediation skills in an Environmental Services context.

Share a specific instance where you faced a high-pressure situation and detail how you managed resources and staff to effectively meet service demands. Emphasize your ability to remain calm and organized, ensuring quality service even during challenging times that may arise in the role at Sodexo.

Talk about specific custodial equipment you have used, such as vacuums, extractors, and buffers. Highlight how you've trained staff on their proper use and maintenance, which aligns with the responsibilities of the Environmental Services / Custodial Manager 1 role at Sodexo.

Illustrate how you value customer feedback as a tool for improvement and how you implement changes based on this feedback. Discuss specific methods you’ve used to gather and analyze feedback, showing your dedication to customer satisfaction in custodial services.

Share your methods for effective task prioritization, such as assessing urgency, delegating responsibilities based on team strengths, and maintaining open communication with your team. Highlight how these strategies improve efficiency and service quality during busy periods.

Discuss your philosophy on training staff and share specific techniques you've used to develop their skills and knowledge. Emphasize how investing in staff training benefits the overall service quality and team morale within an Environmental Services framework.

Express your passion for creating safe, clean environments and your alignment with Sodexo’s values and mission. Share how your previous experiences prepared you for this role, and why you believe you can make a positive impact on the University at Buffalo community.